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Gun Instructor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Yellow Works Inc

Substitute Instructor

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$25/hr

Wellness resources JOB ANNOUNCEMENT -- SUBSTITUTE INSTRUCTOR , YELLOWHAB "For me, it's almost ... Water Gun YELLOW's MISSION We will EVEN THE ODDS for all youth through education. We believe the ...

Yellow Works Inc

Substitute Instructor

Norfolk, VA

$25/hr

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT -- SUBSTITUTE INSTRUCTOR , YELLOWHAB "For me, it's almost magical being able to ... Water Gun YELLOW's MISSION We will EVEN THE ODDS for all youth through education. We believe the ...

Yellow Works Inc

Substitute Instructor

Norfolk, VA

$25/hr

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT -- SUBSTITUTE INSTRUCTOR , YELLOWHAB "For me, it's almost magical being able to ... Water Gun YELLOW's MISSION We will EVEN THE ODDS for all youth through education. We believe the ...

CARTER MACHINERY CO., INC.

PAINTER

Salem, VA · On-site

$20.83 - $30.40/hr

Must be able to operate a paint gun * Must be able to wear and use a supplied Air Hood/helmet while ... In-house training instructors/programs * Tuition reimbursement * Employee referral bonus program

New

Carter Machinery

PAINTER

Salem, VA

$20.83 - $30.40/hr

Must be able to operate a paint gun * Must be able to wear and use a supplied Air Hood/helmet while ... In-house training instructors/programs * Tuition reimbursement * Employee referral bonus program

New

CARTER MACHINERY CO., INC.

PAINTER

Salem, VA

$30.40/hr

Must be able to operate a paint gun * Must be able to wear and use a supplied Air Hood/helmet while ... In-house training instructors/programs * Tuition reimbursement * Employee referral bonus program

New

BAE Systems

Training Spec Sr

Radford, VA · On-site

$75K - $127K/yr

... BBP Instructor, and Confined Space Entry Trainer. * In-depth knowledge of OSHA regulations and ... naval guns, missile launchers, and ship repair...just to name a few. Our employees take pride in ...

Liberty

Campus Rec Range Safety Officer (PT)

Lynchburg, VA

$16.75 - $23/hr

Responsible for the safety of all students, faculty, staff and visitors on a Liberty Mountain Gun ... Instructor, coach, armorer) * Competitive or extensive recreational shooting background Driving ...

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All JobsGun Instructor JobsGun Instructor Jobs in Virginia

Gun Instructor information

See Virginia salary details

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$35

How much do gun instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for gun instructor in Virginia is $21.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to become a firearms instructor?

Becoming a firearms instructor typically requires prior experience with firearms, relevant certifications such as NRA or state-approved instructor courses, and passing background checks. The process involves training in safety, teaching skills, and often ongoing education to maintain certification standards.

What is the difference between Gun Instructor vs Firearms Trainer?

AspectGun InstructorFirearms Trainer
CertificationsState-specific firearm safety and instructor certificationsSimilar certifications, often including NRA or state licenses
Work EnvironmentGun ranges, training facilities, outdoor settingsGun ranges, private training, security training environments
Industry UsageLaw enforcement, civilian firearm safety, shooting schoolsMilitary, law enforcement, civilian self-defense, security

Gun Instructors and Firearms Trainers often share similar certifications and work environments, focusing on firearm safety and shooting skills. The main difference lies in their typical employment sectors and specific training focus, with Gun Instructors more commonly associated with civilian and recreational shooting, while Firearms Trainers may work more broadly in security and law enforcement contexts.

What are Gun Instructors?

Gun Instructors are professionals who teach individuals how to safely handle, operate, and maintain firearms. They provide instruction on firearm laws, responsible ownership, marksmanship, and safety protocols. Gun Instructors often work in shooting ranges, law enforcement agencies, or private organizations, and may help students prepare for licensing exams or concealed carry permits. Their ultimate goal is to ensure that students are competent and confident in handling firearms while prioritizing safety at all times.

Can you make money as a firearms instructor?

A firearms instructor can earn income through private lessons, group training, and certification courses. Earnings vary based on experience, location, and client base, with some instructors working independently or for shooting ranges and security firms. Successful instructors often hold relevant certifications and develop a strong reputation to increase their income potential.

What are some common challenges faced by gun instructors during training sessions?

Gun instructors often encounter challenges such as varying student experience levels, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, and adapting teaching methods to different learning styles. Managing group dynamics and maintaining focus during live-fire exercises can also be demanding. Successful instructors are skilled at creating a supportive environment while consistently reinforcing safety and responsible firearm handling, making adaptability and strong communication essential traits for the role.

How much do firearms instructors make in the US?

Firearms instructors in the US typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and whether they work for a training company or independently. Many instructors supplement income through private lessons, certifications, and specialized training programs.

How long does it take to be a gun instructor?

Becoming a gun instructor typically requires completing a certified training course that can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the program and jurisdiction. Candidates usually need to obtain relevant firearm safety certifications and gain experience with firearms before qualifying as instructors.

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

To thrive as a Gun Instructor, you need extensive firearms knowledge, safety expertise, and relevant certifications such as NRA Instructor credentials or state-specific licenses. Familiarity with firearms training simulators, range safety protocols, and record-keeping systems is also important. Strong communication, patience, and situational awareness help instructors effectively teach diverse students and maintain a safe learning environment. These competencies are crucial for ensuring responsible gun handling, safety compliance, and positive training outcomes.
What are popular job titles related to Gun Instructor jobs in Virginia? For Gun Instructor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Gun Instructor jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Gun Instructor jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Gun Instructor jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Gun Instructor job openings:
Gun Instructor jobs near you
Instructor and Assessor

Instructor and Assessor

PEOPLE TECHNOLOGY AND PROCESSES LLC

Virginia Beach, VA

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position title: Instructor and Assessor

Location: Little Creek, Virginia

Clearance required: SECRET

Responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

  • Delivering classroom and practical field instruction in accordance with approved curricula.
  • Preparing training areas, including weapons loading, target placement, and equipment setup.
  • Conducting operator-level maintenance and cleaning of authorized weapons systems.
  • Maintaining training binders and course materials.
  • Completing and maintaining required Personnel Qualification Standards (PQS) for each watch station.

Education and Certification:

  • Must be a graduate of a certified Navy Instructor Training Course (e.g., NEC 9502, 9501, or 9518) or a civilian/commercial equivalent course certified as
  • JIT/NITC equivalency by the Center for Professional Development.
  • Must complete Core Unique Instructor Training (CUIT) and the Instructor Certification and Qualification Program (ICQP) prior to the performance start date.
  • Must complete command and course indoctrination, high-risk screenings, and CPR/AED/First Aid certifications.
  • Must be a qualified Range Safety Officer (RSO) or possess a civilian industry standard equivalent for small arms and crew-served weapons (CSW) static and dynamic live-fire ranges.
  • Must have recent (within three years) weapons qualifications for:
    • M9/M18 Pistol or designated replacement.
    • M4/M16 (or variants) Rifle.
    • M500 Shotgun.
  • Must be able to qualify on the following weapons systems as required:
    • M240 Machine Gun.
    • M2HB .50 cal Machine Gun.
    • M203 Grenade Launcher.
    • Other weapons systems as assigned.

Experience:

  • Must have at least one (1) year of instructional experience, as evidenced by documentation such as a DD-214 or course certificates.
  • Must have prior experience in one or more of the following areas: USN Naval Coastal Warfare, Maritime Expeditionary Security, Riverine, Coast Riverine, or Special Operations.
  • Experience from tactical small arms weapons training schools (e.g., Blackwater, Mid-South Shooting Institute, Gryphon, SFAUC, or MCAUC) or equivalent schools will be considered.
  • Must have an honorable discharge from active-duty military service with a favorable reenlistment code.
  • Must have recent (within three years) weapons qualifications for the M9/M18 Pistol (or replacement), M4/M16 Rifle, and M500 Shotgun.

Skills and Knowledge:

  • Must be able to qualify on the M240 Machine Gun, M2HB .50 cal Machine Gun, M203 Grenade Launcher, and other weapons systems as assigned.
  • Must complete knowledge and performance tests related to the course(s) assigned to teach.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Must be capable of clearly writing and speaking in English.
  • Must adhere to and enforce all safety protocols and Navy policies, including those governing high-risk training environments.

Security Clearance and Physical Requirements:

  • Must maintain a Secret Clearance as required.
  • Must meet physical and psychological requirements, including the ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work in high-risk environments.

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