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Firearms Instructor Jobs in Topeka, KS (NOW HIRING)

City of Topeka, Kansas

Police Officer - 2026

Topeka, KS · On-site

$115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Marshals Task Force, Accident Reconstruction, Accident Investigation Unit, Defensive Tactics Instructor, Firearms Instructor, Honor Guard, Pipe and Drum Corps, EVOC Instructor, Polygraph Examiner ...

The City of Topeka

Police Officer - 2026

Topeka, KS · On-site

$115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Marshal's Task Force, Accident Reconstruction, Accident Investigation Unit, Defensive Tactics Instructor, Firearms Instructor, Honor Guard, Pipe and Drum Corps, EVOC Instructor, Polygraph Examiner ...

New

PetSmart

Pet Training Instructor III

Topeka, KS · On-site

$47K - $62K/yr

PetSmart is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, genetics ...

PetSmart

Pet Training Instructor II

Lawrence, KS · On-site

$50K - $66K/yr

See More See Less PetSmart is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin ...

PetSmart

Pet Training Instructor II

Topeka, KS · On-site

$47K - $62K/yr

See More See Less PetSmart is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin ...

PetSmart

Pet Training Instructor II

Lawrence, KS · On-site

$52K - $68K/yr

See More See Less PetSmart is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin ...

All JobsFirearms Instructor JobsFirearms Instructor Jobs in Topeka, KS

Firearms Instructor information

See Topeka, KS salary details

$27.8K

$55.2K

$98.3K

How much do firearms instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for firearms instructor in Topeka, KS is $55,235.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,200.00 and $56,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a firearms instructor?

Firearms Instructors are professionals who teach individuals and groups how to handle, operate, and maintain firearms safely and effectively. They provide instruction on firearm safety, marksmanship, legal considerations, and proper handling techniques. Firearms Instructors may work with law enforcement, military personnel, security professionals, or civilians, and often conduct both classroom and live-fire training. Their role is critical in ensuring that students develop the skills and knowledge required for responsible firearm use.

What does a firearms instructor do?

As a firearms instructor, your job is to teach students how to use firearms responsibly or train personnel or customers on how to use specific firearms. Firearms instructors can work at shooting ranges, weapons manufacturing companies, or government or law enforcement agencies. Although your particular responsibilities differ depending on the field in which you work, most instructors’ duties are similar. You may oversee police academy recruits during training, work with private security companies to lead coursework, or teach citizens on how to use guns.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a firearms instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Firearms Instructor, you need expert knowledge of firearms safety, marksmanship, and instructional techniques, often supported by certifications from organizations like the NRA or law enforcement agencies. Familiarity with range safety protocols, training aids, and record-keeping systems is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and attention to detail help instructors effectively teach and adapt to various experience levels. These skills ensure safe, effective training and compliance with legal and organizational standards.

What are some typical challenges a firearms instructor may face when working with trainees of varying skill levels?

Firearms Instructors often encounter the challenge of adapting their teaching methods to accommodate trainees with different backgrounds, learning speeds, and levels of experience. Balancing safety, engagement, and skill development for both beginners and advanced shooters requires flexibility and strong communication skills. Instructors must also address nervousness or misconceptions about firearms, ensuring all participants feel comfortable and confident while maintaining strict safety protocols. Collaborating with range staff and other instructors can help facilitate a supportive learning environment.

What is the difference between Firearms Instructor vs Security Guard?

AspectFirearms InstructorSecurity Guard
Required CertificationsFirearms safety and instructor certifications, state licensingSecurity license, state licensing
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, shooting ranges, classroomsBuildings, outdoor locations, event venues
Employer & IndustryTraining companies, law enforcement, private security firmsSecurity companies, private clients, retail stores

While both roles require licensing and involve safety protocols, Firearms Instructors focus on teaching firearm skills and safety, often in training facilities, whereas Security Guards provide security services, patrolling and monitoring in various environments. The roles differ mainly in their primary responsibilities but share common certifications and industry usage.

Can a civilian become a firearms instructor?

Yes, civilians can become firearms instructors if they meet state and federal requirements, which often include holding a valid firearms license, completing instructor certification courses, and passing background checks. Many organizations offer instructor training programs that prepare individuals to teach firearm safety and shooting skills professionally.
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What cities near Topeka, KS are hiring for Firearms Instructor jobs?

Cities near Topeka, KS with the most Firearms Instructor job openings:

Firearms Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Firearms Instructor job openings in Topeka, KS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,235 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Police Officer - Lateral Transfer - 2026

The City of Topeka

Topeka, KS • On-site

$115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

City Of Topeka rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

452nd of 846 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Police Officer - Lateral Transfer
The City of Topeka is seeking current Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs) for the Topeka Police Lateral Academy. Enjoy big city career opportunities with a small town feel in a community that supports its Police Department.
Current LEOs are eligible for entry pay rates that recognize up to 12 years of previous Law Enforcement experience (up to $44.64/hour!) and enjoy an accelerated hiring process and shortened Academy and FTO training.
The Topeka Police Department offers excellent opportunities for training and career advancements.
Interested candidates must schedule, complete and pass the written test and the Police Officer Physical Agility Test (POPAT) to be eligible for consideration.
To register for an upcoming test date, please click �Start Your Application� on the City of Topeka's careers site at https://www.topeka.gov/careers .
What to expect in the recruitment process:
  1. Register for and complete the Written Test and Police Officer Physical Agility Test (POPAT)
  2. Background Investigation
  3. Interview Process (Initial, Staff, and Civil Service Interviews)
  4. Exam Process (Polygraph, Psychological and Medical Exams)
  5. Final Offer

Annual entry rate of pay: $65,374.40 to $92,851.20
Click here to view a full position description , Please right-click to open in a new tab.
Questions? Contact our Recruiting Team! Call Sgt. J. Joyce at 785-368-2419 or email tpdrecruiting@topeka.org .
Benefits & Incentives
  • Starting pay of $31.43 per hour / $65,374.40 per year in 2026
  • Approximately $1 per hour increase per year (for 15 years) up to $49.52 per hour / $103,001.60 per year in 2026
  • Shift differential Pay ($1 per hour for shifts starting after 12:00 p.m.)
  • Premium pay for detectives (base salary up to $110,676.80 per year) and sergeants (base salary up to $115,523.20 per year)
  • Attend paid Police Academy in Topeka
  • Lateral Transfer Program: starting pay up to $44.64 per hour / $92,851.20 per year in 2026, accelerated hiring process, shortened police academy and FTO phase (upon approval of the Chief)
  • Receive GI bill benefits throughout the academy and FTO phase
  • Department issues all required gear
  • Granted 24 core Criminal Justice credits at Washburn University for academy completion
  • 10-Hour workdays for patrol officers and academy
  • Monthly Education Bonus (Associate's Degree: $25, Bachelor's Degree: $100, Master's Degree: $125)
  • 11 paid holidays per year (triple-time pay if working)
  • Minimum 4.5 hours of compensatory time or 3 hours overtime pay for off-duty court appearances
  • Physical incentive pay (up to $90/quarter) with On-site Gym - Workout on Duty
  • Compensation for certified bilingual officers (up to $2,500 per year)
  • Tuition reimbursement up to $1,000 per year
  • Employee Assistance Program. Ride Share Reimbursements
  • Health/Dental/Prescription Insurance with Free Onsite Health & Wellness Clinic
  • Top notch training and access to our Regional Training Center
  • $2 per hour incentive for field training officers and supervisors
  • Personal Leave (2 days awarded annually), Perfect Attendance Leave (1 day per quarter), Funeral Leave (3 days per use), Vacation Leave (96 hours per year, increases with years of service), Sick Leave (96 hours per year)
  • Promotion and specialty unit selection points for military service and formal education
  • Medical expense reimbursement (up to $1,300)
  • Contractual agreement between the city of Topeka and FOP lodge #3
  • Specialty Units and Assignments Include K-9 Unit, Response Team, CSI, Detectives, Bomb Unit, Narcotics Officers, Behavioral Health Unit, Motorcycle Unit, School Resource Officers, Youth Education OFC, ATV Unit, Community Police, Crisis Negotiator, Security Preservation Team (SPT), FBI, ATF, & U.S. Marshal's Task Force, Accident Reconstruction, Accident Investigation Unit, Defensive Tactics Instructor, Firearms Instructor, Honor Guard, Pipe and Drum Corps, EVOC Instructor, Polygraph Examiner, Training Unit, and UAV Unit
  • Retirement is under Kansas Police & Fire. Full retirement is available at 25 years of service & 50 years of age. For more information click here: KP&F Retirement Services
  • Click here to see other benefits offered: Other Benefits Available

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