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Firearms Instructor Jobs in Winchester, VA (NOW HIRING)

INSTRUCTOR

Summit Point, WV · On-site

$56K - $74K/yr

WHAT YOU'LL DO Serve as an Instructor for specialized training courses in one or more areas of expertise, which may include advanced vehicle operations, vehicle dynamics, firearms, motorcade ...

INSTRUCTOR

Summit Point, WV · On-site

$56K - $74K/yr

WHAT YOU'LL DO Serve as an Instructor for specialized training courses in one or more areas of expertise, which may include advanced vehicle operations, vehicle dynamics, firearms, motorcade ...

Pet Training Instructor II

Winchester, VA · On-site

$55K - $72K/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 ...

Pet Training Instructor II

Martinsburg, WV · On-site

$49K - $64K/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 ...

Firearms Instructor information

See Winchester, VA salary details

$28.7K

$57K

$101.5K

How much do firearms instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for firearms instructor in Winchester, VA is $57,028.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,900.00 and $58,300.00 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.

What job categories do people searching Firearms Instructor jobs in Winchester, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Firearms Instructor jobs in Winchester, VA are:

What cities near Winchester, VA are hiring for Firearms Instructor jobs?

Cities near Winchester, VA with the most Firearms Instructor job openings:

Infographic showing various Firearms Instructor job openings in Winchester, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, and 56% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,028 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

$56K - $74K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description

WHO WE ARE
Founded in 1969, Summit Point Training Facility provides specialized training solutions for government, military, law enforcement, security, emergency response, and other professional clients. Our 786-acre facility in Summit Point, WV serves as the primary location for our training operations, offering purpose-built environments for practical, scenario-based instruction across a range of specialized disciplines.


In addition to training conducted at Summit Point, our instructors may support training at client and contract locations throughout the United States and internationally. We take pride in providing experienced subject matter experts and training solutions tailored to each client's objectives and operational needs.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
Serve as an Instructor for specialized training courses in one or more areas of expertise, which may include advanced vehicle operations, vehicle dynamics, firearms, motorcade operations, counter-IED, surveillance detection, security, emergency response, and other related disciplines. 


The ideal candidate will be responsible for:

  • Reviewing established training objectives, lesson plans, training materials, and instructional methods prior to assigned courses.
  • Delivering classroom and/or practical instruction within assigned areas of subject matter expertise.
  • Providing clear, professional instruction to students with varying levels of knowledge and experience.
  • Evaluating student performance and providing appropriate instruction, coaching, and feedback to support established training objectives.
  • Monitoring practical exercises and maintaining a safe, controlled training environment.
  • Identifying opportunities to improve course content, training materials, instructional methods, and overall training effectiveness.
  • Maintaining current knowledge of techniques, methods, procedures, and developments relevant to assigned areas of instruction.
  • Supporting Lead Instructors and other instructional staff during classroom and practical training exercises as needed.
  • Modeling and enforcing established safety standards, operational controls, and training procedures.
  • Reporting accidents, incidents, safety concerns, equipment issues, or other significant events to the Lead Instructor or appropriate supervisor.
  • Serving as Lead Instructor for assigned courses when qualified and requested.
  • Performing additional instructional or training-support duties based on individual qualifications, course requirements, and client needs.
  • Performing additional instructional or training-support duties based on individual qualifications, course requirements, and client needs. 

Depending on area of expertise and course assignment, responsibilities may also include instruction or practical exercises involving advanced vehicle operations, vehicle dynamics, armored vehicles, motorcade operations, firearms and less-lethal systems, surveillance detection, counter-IED, security operations, emergency response, vehicle recovery, or other specialized disciplines. 


WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • This is a non-exempt, part-time, as-needed position. 
  • Hours vary based on course schedules and client needs. 
  • Most assignments are based at Summit Point Training Facility in Summit Point, WV; however, training opportunities may also occur at client or contract locations. 
  • Candidates may be considered for assignments based on their qualifications, geographic availability, and ability to report to the applicable training location.


WORK CONDITIONS

This position is very active and requires climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, use of hands, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions throughout the workday. The employee must have close visual acuity and the ability to occasionally lift and move items over 50 pounds.


Assignments may be performed in both indoor and outdoor environments under a variety of weather conditions. Certain driving exercises may include controlled vehicle-to-vehicle contact scenarios at speeds of up to 25 mph. 


This role may involve the presence and controlled use of training weapons, including firearms and less-lethal devices, as part of authorized training exercises. All weapons-related activities are conducted in accordance with established safety protocols, training standards, and applicable laws. Instructors participating in weapons-related training are required to model, enforce, and adhere to strict weapons safety procedures at all times. 


Ability to work with exposure to dust or dirt, noise, vibration, and other hazards is routine and may require the use of appropriate personal protective equipment. The worker is frequently in close quarters and may be required to function in narrow aisles or passageways.


WHY JOIN US

  • Be part of an experienced team delivering specialized training to government and professional clients. 
  • Apply your professional experience and subject matter expertise in dynamic, scenario-based training environments. 
  • Work alongside experienced professionals from a variety of operational backgrounds. 
  • Flexible, as-needed scheduling based on training and client needs. 
  • Competitive compensation.

SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants whose experience aligns with our current training needs may be contacted by a member of our Training team for an initial discussion. Selected candidates may then be invited to Summit Point to participate in practical skills assessments and/or qualification testing relevant to the discipline(s) they may be assigned to instruct.


Successful completion of these assessments does not constitute an offer of employment. Candidates selected to move forward will then complete Summit Point's standard HR hiring and pre-employment process.


Note: This is an ongoing job listing used to identify qualified instructors for current and future training needs. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis, and hiring and assignment decisions are based on individual qualifications, areas of expertise, geographic availability, client requirements, active contracts, and organizational needs. Qualified applicants may be contacted as opportunities matching their background become available. 


Requirements

Job Requirements and Qualifications:
Required: 

  • Minimum of 4 years of professional experience in military, law enforcement, fire/rescue, emergency medical services, motorsports/professional driving, security/protective services, or another relevant operational field. 
  • Prior experience serving in a formal instructional or training capacity within a relevant discipline, including responsibility for delivering structured instruction or skills-based training to others.
  • Direct hands-on experience in one or more relevant training disciplines, which may include advanced vehicle operations, vehicle dynamics, firearms, motorcade operations, counter-IED, surveillance detection, security operations, emergency response, or other related areas.
  • Demonstrated ability to safely conduct and instruct practical, skills-based training within the candidate's area of expertise in accordance with established safety protocols and training procedures. 
  • Sound judgment and situational awareness in dynamic training environments, with the ability to assess risk and take appropriate corrective action to prevent injury or damage.
  • Ability and willingness to model, comply with, and enforce established safety standards, operational controls, and training procedures.
  • Strong communication, presentation, and facilitation skills with the ability to effectively instruct students with varying levels of knowledge and experience.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of an instructional team.
  • Ability to work in both indoor and outdoor training environments under a variety of weather and environmental conditions.
  • Basic computer proficiency, including familiarity with Microsoft PowerPoint, Word, and Excel.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license.
  • Must successfully pass a background check and drug screening, consistent with applicable laws.
  • Candidates must successfully complete Summit Point's applicable skills assessments and qualification requirements for the discipline(s) they are being considered to instruct as part of the selection process. 

Summit Point Raceway Associates, INC. is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, pregnancy- related conditions, and lactation), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, familial status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Summit Point Raceway Associates, INC.'s management team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, access to facilities and programs, and general treatment during employment.