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Gunsmith Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

89B Ammunition Specialist

Watkins, CO · On-site

$200 - $250/wk

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Gunsmith information

See Colorado salary details

$15

$25

$33

How much do gunsmith jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for gunsmith in Colorado is $25.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $31.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Gunsmiths typically do not earn $4,000 a week without extensive experience or a high level of skill. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree include certain sales roles, specialized trades like commercial pilot or real estate broker, and entrepreneurial ventures such as starting a business or freelance work in skilled trades. Success in these fields often depends on experience, reputation, and performance rather than formal education.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Gunsmiths typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized surgeons, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, certifications, or ownership of a business. Most gunsmiths earn a moderate income, with top professionals possibly earning six figures with extensive experience or a large client base.

What is a gunsmith?

A gunsmith is a skilled tradesperson who designs, builds, repairs, modifies, and maintains firearms. Their work involves tasks such as cleaning, inspecting, and restoring guns, as well as fabricating or fitting custom parts. Gunsmiths use specialized tools and machinery to ensure firearms function safely and accurately. They may work in gun shops, for manufacturers, or be self-employed, and are knowledgeable about firearm laws and safe handling practices.

What Is a Gunsmith?

A Gunsmith builds, repairs, and maintains various types of firearms. As a Gunsmith, your responsibilities and duties include assembling and calibrating firearms, maintaining and repairing them, and following safety protocols. You may also customize a client’s pieces by engraving or modifying the weapon. Gunsmiths must comply with applicable federal and state laws.

What is the difference between Gunsmith vs Armorer?

AspectGunsmithArmorer
CredentialsOften requires gunsmithing certifications or technical trainingMay require similar certifications, especially for military or law enforcement armorers
Work EnvironmentCustom workshops, firearm manufacturing or repair shopsMilitary, law enforcement facilities, or specialized repair shops
Industry UsageFirearm repair, customization, and restorationMaintaining, repairing, and assembling firearms for organizations

Gunsmiths and armorers both work with firearms, but gunsmiths focus on customizing, repairing, and restoring firearms for civilian clients, while armorers primarily maintain and repair firearms for military or law enforcement agencies. Although their skills overlap, their work environments and client bases differ significantly.

How hard is it to become a gunsmith?

Becoming a gunsmith typically requires technical training through vocational schools, apprenticeships, or on-the-job experience, along with knowledge of firearm mechanics and safety standards. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region, and strong mechanical skills are essential for success in the field.

What are some common challenges a gunsmith may face when working with vintage or antique firearms?

Gunsmiths often encounter unique challenges when repairing or restoring vintage or antique firearms, such as sourcing rare or obsolete parts and ensuring historical accuracy. These projects may require custom fabrication and a deep understanding of older manufacturing techniques. Attention to detail is critical, as even minor mistakes can affect the firearm's value or functionality. Patience and strong research skills are essential for overcoming these challenges while upholding safety and quality standards.

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

To thrive as a Gunsmith, you need a solid understanding of firearm mechanics, ballistics, metalworking, and woodworking, often supported by formal training or certification in gunsmithing. Experience with specialized tools such as lathes, milling machines, and diagnostic equipment, as well as knowledge of safety and compliance regulations, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and strong customer service abilities help distinguish top professionals in the field. These competencies ensure that firearms are safely repaired, customized, and maintained to the highest standards for clients and regulatory requirements.

Do gunsmiths make money?

Gunsmiths can earn varying incomes depending on experience, location, and whether they work independently or for a company. On average, they earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, with skilled professionals or those running their own shops potentially earning more. Income may also be influenced by certifications, specialized skills, and the demand for firearm repairs and customization.
What are the most commonly searched types of Gunsmith jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Gunsmith jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Gunsmith jobs in Colorado? For Gunsmith jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Gunsmith jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Gunsmith jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Gunsmith jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Gunsmith job openings:
Infographic showing various Gunsmith job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,568 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

$37K - $40K/yr

Full-time, Contractor

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Title: Tool Room Manager

Position Type: Professional Tech Full time

College: Trinidad State College

Division: Academic Affairs

Department: TSC Gunsmithing

Campus: Trinidad Main Campus

Location: Trinidad

Salary Range: $37,000 - $40,000

Who We Are:

Trinidad State College, located in Trinidad, Colorado, is a state-supported, two-year institution of higher education. The College was established by an act of the State Legislature in 1925 and is the oldest public two-year college in the State of Colorado. The College’s Service Area includes eight rural counties characterized by low population density and small communities. One campus is located in Trinidad and is a residential campus while the other, located in Alamosa, is a commuter campus. Both campuses serve distinct populations. As a comprehensive Community College, Trinidad State College not only offers ongoing transfer Associate of Arts Degree and Associate of Applied Science (vocational) Degree programs but also has developed and implemented numerous successful short-term vocational certificate programs, and totally inclusive adult education and developmental programs.

Job Summary:

Trinidad State College seeks a Toolroom Manager for the Gunsmithing Department located at the College’s Trinidad Campus located in Trinidad, Colorado. This is a full-time, 12-month, position which reports directly to the Gunsmith Department Chair.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Provide direct support to Gunsmithing faculty and students
• Order and maintain supplies and inventory of same
• Have a basic understanding of the tools and supplies necessary for the operation of the department
• Perform basic maintenance to the Gunsmithing labs/shops, which includes but is not limited to cleaning, lubricating, and maintaining shop equipment and shops
• Maintain a Federal Firearms Bound book in accordance with ATF laws and regulations
• Be able to safely handle firearms in dealing with students and customers
• Supervise and coordinate Work-Study Students
• Support the NRA summer classes, coordinator, instructors, and students
• Other duties as assigned

Competencies/KSAs:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Be personable, friendly and supportive to all TSC faculty and students
• Act as an ambassador to the Gunsmithing Department and to Trinidad State College
• Applicants must be able to legally own and possess firearms

Preferred Qualifications:

Selection Process:

Special Requirements:
The successful candidate must submit to and successfully complete a post-offer, pre-employment background check as a condition of hire.

Application Instructions: 

Closing:
Closing date for receipt and consideration of candidates is: 08-11-2026
Incomplete applicant files may not be considered. Screening of applications to begin immediately.
Inquiries:
Yvette Atencio, Human Resources Director – (800) 621-8752, ext. 5538 or 719-846-5538
Lynette Bates, Vice President of Academic Affairs – (800) 621-8752, ext. 5525 or 719-846-5559

Additional Information/Benefits:

Notice To All Applicants
Former employees of the Colorado Community College system or one of its 13 colleges, who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination, must disclose this information on your application/within your application materials. All materials submitted become the property of Trinidad State College and will not be returned. The State of Colorado must comply with the Immigration Reform and Control Act/1986. If hired, you will be required to provide documents to show your identity and authorization to work. This law applies to all persons hired. Colorado fiscal rules require all new employees to be on direct deposit.
CAMPUS SECURITY AUTHORITY
This position has been identified by the U.S. Department of Education as a Campus Security Authority. As a Campus Security Authority, the incumbent in this position is required to report all crimes that they become aware of to the Vice President of Student Affairs, Dean of Students or Human Resources Department at Trinidad State College.
This position must report all incidents, whether directly or indirectly, that you become aware regarding Civil Rights, which includes all sexual misconduct incidences, to the Equal Opportunity/Title IX Coordinator for the College.
This position is responsible for development of student training and awareness programming for the athletic team regarding unlawful discrimination and harassment prevention, which includes sexual misconduct, in collaboration with the Equal Opportunity/Title IX Coordinator for the College as well as the College Athletic Director.
This position is responsible for development of primary prevention and awareness programs for the athletic team for incoming students as well as ongoing prevention and awareness campaigns pursuant to the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act on dating and domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, in collaboration with College staff responsible with overseeing Clery Act compliance.
For information regarding Trinidad State College Security, including crime statistics for the Trinidad and Alamosa campus and surrounding area, please see the Trinidad State College Campus Security website at: http://www.trinidadstate.edu/campus-security.html. For a hard copy report please contact 719-846- 5618
TSC Mission Statement
Trinidad State’s mission is to enrich the lives of our diverse communities by providing quality educational experiences and promoting lifelong learning.
In addition to rewarding and meaningful work, we offer a comprehensive selection of benefits to support our employees, including:
Strong, flexible retirement benefits including Colorado PERA's Defined Benefit Plan or Defined Contribution Plan. TSC contributes 20.95% of your salary on your behalf. Supplemental retirement plans including 401(k), 403(b) and 457 plans are also available. Please note student employees are not eligible to contribute to PERA.
Medical insurance is offered to instructors and other variable hour employees who have worked, on average, at least 30 hours per week in a 12-month period. TSC/CCCS uses an initial 12-month measurement period to determine medical benefit eligibility, and a 12-month standard measurement period. Additional information about this, and Life and Disability benefit information can be found at the CCCS Employee Benefits site under “Instructor & Variable Hour Employee Benefit Information.” Please note that Kaiser and Anthem Blue Priority plans are not offered at TSC.
Employee assistance services such as counseling, professional coaching, financial planning, and more, are available to you and members of your household at no cost through the Colorado State Employee Assistance Program (C-SEAP)
Sick leave is granted in accordance with SB20-205, Sick Leave for Employees, accrued at one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to a maximum of 48 hours per year.
State employees are eligible to participate in BenefitHub which offers discounts for retailers and services and other benefits resources.
Employees may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Additional information about this program can be found on the Colorado Division of Human Resources website.