ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Pistol Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Allied Universal

Regional Trainer

Tucson, AZ

Where firearms instruction is required, must be able to obtain Pistol Instructor certification within 90 days of placement * Must possess a valid driver's license if driving a company-owned vehicle

Tawani Enterprises

PT Firearms Instructor

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Current Pistol and Rifle Instructor Certification from NRA, USCCA or equivalent. Additional certification as a Shotgun Instructor is ideal. * Knowledge and understanding of all common firearm actions ...

TAWANI Enterprises

PT Firearms Instructor

Kenosha, WI

$20 - $25/hr

Current Pistol and Rifle Instructor Certification from NRA, USCCA or equivalent. Additional certification as a Shotgun Instructor is ideal. * Knowledge and understanding of all common firearm actions ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsPistol Instructor Jobs

Pistol Instructor information

See salary details

$13

$23

$44

How much do pistol instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for pistol instructor in the United States is $23.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Pistol Instructor, you need comprehensive firearms knowledge, safety expertise, and relevant instructor certifications such as NRA or law enforcement credentials. Familiarity with range safety equipment, target systems, and firearms training software is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to adapt teaching methods to different learning styles are crucial soft skills. These abilities ensure safe, effective instruction and help students build confidence and competence with firearms.

What are some common challenges Pistol Instructors face when working with new shooters, and how can they be addressed?

Pistol Instructors often encounter challenges such as new shooters experiencing anxiety, struggling with proper grip and stance, and having difficulty understanding safety protocols. To address these issues, instructors should foster a supportive and patient environment, use clear demonstrations, and provide hands-on guidance. Consistent reinforcement of safety rules and positive feedback can help build students' confidence and ensure a safe learning atmosphere. Additionally, adapting teaching techniques to accommodate various learning styles can improve overall student progress.

What are Pistol Instructors?

Pistol Instructors are professionals trained to teach individuals how to safely and effectively use pistols. They provide instruction on firearm safety, proper handling, shooting techniques, and maintenance of pistols. Pistol Instructors often conduct courses for beginners as well as advanced shooters, and may also help students meet requirements for concealed carry permits or other certifications. Their primary goal is to promote responsible gun ownership and ensure safe firearm practices. Many are certified by organizations such as the NRA or law enforcement agencies.

What is the difference between Pistol Instructor vs Firearms Instructor?

AspectPistol InstructorFirearms Instructor
CertificationsTypically requires NRA Pistol Instructor certification, state-specific licensesRequires NRA Firearms Instructor certification, may include additional firearm types
Work EnvironmentIndoor shooting ranges, training classes, law enforcement or civilian settingsVaried environments including ranges, outdoor training, law enforcement, security
Industry UsagePrimarily civilian firearm training, self-defense coursesBroader firearm training including rifles, shotguns, tactical courses

While both Pistol Instructors and Firearms Instructors provide firearm safety and training, Pistol Instructors focus specifically on handgun skills, whereas Firearms Instructors cover a wider range of firearm types. The certifications, work environments, and industry applications overlap but differ in scope and specialization.

More about Pistol Instructor jobs
What states have the most Pistol Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Pistol Instructor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Pistol Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Pistol Instructor jobs are:
Pistol Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pistol Instructor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, and 35% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,145 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Weapons Based Instructor/Site Lead

D2 Government Solutions

Gulfport, MS

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Weapons-Based Instructor III
Position Overview
D2 Government Solutions, Inc. is seeking a Weapons-Based Instructor III to support the Expeditionary Combat Skills (ECS) Course of Instruction. This position provides training to personnel assigned to the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command and Naval Special Warfare organizations.
In addition to instructional duties, this role serves as the Contract Site Lead, responsible for daily contract operations at the training location. The Instructor must also be qualified to support Phase IV Judgment-Based Engagement Training (JET).
Key Responsibilities
  • Deliver ECS course content in accordance with approved curriculum, training standards, and internal quality requirements.
  • Serve as the Contract Site Lead, acting with full authority on all daily contract matters at the training site.
  • Provide required site lead and alternate contact information to Government representatives and promptly report any changes.
  • Maintain familiarity with lesson plans, training aids, testing procedures, remediation processes, electronic podiums, and all associated instructional equipment.
  • Complete the Instructor Evaluation and Certification Process prior to independently teaching Navy students.
  • Qualify as a Phase IV JET Instructor and support one of the most advanced phases of ECS training.
  • Deliver a wide range of ECS training topics and provide instructional and safety support during live‑fire weapons training.
  • Demonstrate modern dynamic combat shooting skills in support of ECS instruction.
  • Maintain proficiency with the M9 Service Pistol and M4 Carbine, achieving sharpshooter‑level qualification with both systems.
  • Serve as a designated Range Safety Officer (RSO) when assigned, including completion of all required qualifications and Personnel Qualification Standards.
  • Call the course of fire in accordance with applicable guidance when serving as RSO.
  • Support student learning, safety, and operational readiness in a disciplined military training environment.
JET Instruction Focus
  • Decision‑making in high‑stress tactical situations and deadly force encounters.
  • Recognition of compliant versus non‑compliant threats.
  • Application of appropriate legal and tactical levels of force.
  • Instruction on psycho‑physiological responses to life‑threatening encounters (e.g., tachypsychia, elevated heart rate, vasoconstriction, loss of fine motor skills, tunnel vision, auditory exclusion, time distortion).
  • Training in stress‑mitigation techniques, including stress inoculation, muscle memory development, scenario‑based simulators, and force‑on‑force training with Simunitions.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Physical fitness sufficient to support all required training evolutions.
  • Ability to perform weapons qualification in standing, kneeling, and prone positions.
  • Ability to climb ladders, move through narrow passageways, and operate safely in demanding training environments.
  • Ability to teach assigned content and successfully complete associated testing.
  • Strong communication, instructional, leadership, and safety‑awareness skills.
  • Ability to deliver diverse training topics while maintaining professionalism in a high‑risk training environment.
  • Familiarity with the M9 Service Pistol and M4 Carbine, with the ability to achieve sharpshooter‑level qualification on both.
Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Experience in the military, law enforcement, or a security‑related discipline.
  • Familiarity with the M9 Service Pistol and M4 Carbine.
  • Ability to achieve sharpshooter‑level qualification with both weapon systems.
  • Ability to meet instructor certification requirements prior to independent instruction.
  • Ability to support site‑level leadership responsibilities and daily contract operations.
About D2 Government Solutions
D2GS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
To learn more, visit www.d2-gs.com.

Apply