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Weapon System Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Weapon Systems Instructor

West End, NC · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

The Weapon Systems Instructor - Level I serves as a frontline instructor and field representative ... Ensure instructional delivery reflects current engineering revisions and system configurations.

Department of Defense missile and weapon systems. The ideal candidate will possess a strong ... plans, instructor guide, electronic technical manuals, Interactive Multimedia Instruction (IMI ...

Develop and conduct training on the Aegis Weapon System, Tactical Tomahawk Weapons Control System ... Qualification as a military instructor; master training specialist highly preferred. Physical ...

$121K - $166K/yr

Experience with Program Protection planning and implementation in weapon system programs ... Instructor and curriculum development experience If you are interested in supporting and working ...

$121K - $167K/yr

Experience with Program Protection planning and implementation in weapon system programs ... Instructor and curriculum development experience If you are interested in supporting and working ...

In this position you will provide Instructor-led training, curriculum development, and technical documentation inputs/editing for a fast-paced developmental Weapon System Program. A key to this ...

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Weapon System Instructor information

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How much do weapon system instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for weapon system instructor in the United States is $21.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a weapon system instructor?

A Weapon System Instructor (WSI) is a highly trained military professional responsible for teaching and advising on the operation, tactics, and integration of advanced weapon systems. Typically found in air forces, such as the U.S. Air Force Weapons School, WSIs instruct pilots and other personnel on how to maximize the effectiveness of weapon platforms and systems in various combat scenarios. They play a crucial role in developing and refining tactics, ensuring the highest proficiency and readiness among operational units. WSIs are often considered subject matter experts and are involved in both classroom instruction and practical training exercises.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a weapon system instructor?

To thrive as a Weapon System Instructor, you need in-depth knowledge of weapon systems, tactical operations, and relevant military protocols, often supported by advanced training and prior operational experience. Familiarity with simulation software, instructional technologies, and certifications such as Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) or equivalent are typically required. Strong communication, leadership, and adaptability are essential soft skills for effectively teaching and mentoring service members. These skills ensure accurate knowledge transfer, operational readiness, and the safety of personnel using complex weapon systems.

What are the typical collaboration opportunities for a weapon system instructor within a military training environment?

Weapon System Instructors frequently collaborate with other instructors, operational units, and technical specialists to develop and deliver comprehensive training programs. They often work closely with pilots, operators, and maintenance crews to ensure that instruction is tailored to operational needs and current mission requirements. Regular briefings, debriefs, and simulation exercises foster a team-oriented environment where feedback and shared expertise are integral to effective training. This collaborative structure not only enhances training quality but also provides instructors with exposure to a variety of career paths within military or defense organizations.

What is the difference between Weapon System Instructor vs Firearms Instructor?

AspectWeapon System InstructorFirearms Instructor
Required CredentialsMilitary or specialized weapons certifications, security clearancesState or federal firearms licenses, certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, defense contractors, training facilitiesGun ranges, law enforcement agencies, private training centers
Employer & IndustryDefense, military, governmentLaw enforcement, civilian security, private sector
Common Search & ComparisonWeapon System Instructor vs Firearms Instructor

The main difference between a Weapon System Instructor and a Firearms Instructor lies in their scope and environment. Weapon System Instructors typically work within military or defense settings, focusing on complex weapon systems and requiring specialized certifications. Firearms Instructors generally operate in civilian or law enforcement contexts, specializing in firearm safety and marksmanship. Both roles involve training others but differ in credentials, work environment, and industry focus.

How hard is it to become a weapon system instructor?

Becoming a weapon system instructor typically requires prior military or defense experience, specialized training, and certification in the specific weapon systems. Candidates often need to complete instructor training programs, demonstrate proficiency, and meet security clearance requirements, making the process challenging but structured for qualified individuals.

What states have the most Weapon System Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Weapon System Instructor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Weapon System Instructor jobs?

For Weapon System Instructor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Weapon System Instructor job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,026 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Weapon Systems Instructor

West End, NC • On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

ABOUT KRAKEN KINETICS

Kraken Kinetics designs and manufactures advanced kinetic solutions that enable modern warfighting capabilities for the United States Armed Forces and its allies. We specialize in mission-tailored warheads and firing systems for unmanned and autonomous weapon platforms, delivering production-ready solutions at speed to address urgent national security challenges.

Our team brings decades of specialized Department of War experience across the full lifecycle of kinetic system development—from concept and design through testing, manufacturing, and operational deployment. Built on a foundation of work that helped lead the DoW into the era of kinetic drones, Kraken Kinetics combines commercial agility with deep technical expertise to deliver DEFINITIVE LETHALITY when it matters most.

POSITION SUMMARY

Location: On-site at our Pinehurst-area location with domestic and international travel.

The Weapon Systems Instructor – Level I serves as a frontline instructor and field representative for Kraken Kinetics, responsible for delivering standardized training programs supporting Kraken Kinetics product lines and platform integrations.

Reporting to the Director of Training, this role executes New Equipment Training (NET) events, supports certification activities, and assists in the development and refinement of training materials. Level I Instructors maintain operational proficiency across supported product configurations while ensuring safe, professional, and standardized instruction.

This position represents Kraken Kinetics during domestic and international training engagements and supports the collection of operational feedback to inform ongoing product and training improvements.

Key Responsibilities

Training Execution & Deployment Leadership

  • Deliver standardized Periods of Instruction (POIs) in accordance with the Kraken Kinetics Training Program.

  • Support and execute domestic and international New Equipment Training (NET) events.

  • Assist in live-fly, live-fire, and operator certification events.

  • Conduct student evaluations, teach-backs, and performance assessments.

  • Ensure instructional delivery is consistent with approved courseware and training standards.

Operational & Platform Proficiency

  • Maintain working knowledge of Kraken Kinetics product lines and partner platform integrations.

  • Understand operational considerations across supported drone platforms and vendors.

  • Maintain deployment readiness and instructional proficiency standards established by the Director of Training.

Safety & Risk Mitigation

  • Enforce established safety procedures, range protocols, and risk mitigation standards during training events.

  • Identify unsafe conditions or integration concerns and elevate to senior instructors or training leadership.

  • Support safe handling and operational employment of controlled kinetic systems.

Training Development & Continuous Improvement

  • Assist in the development and revision of training materials, operator guides, and instructional aids.

  • Ensure instructional delivery reflects current engineering revisions and system configurations.

  • Document field observations and submit structured feedback reports to the Training Division.

  • Contribute to after-action reviews and training improvement efforts.

Professional Representation

  • Represent Kraken Kinetics during training engagements, demonstrations, and industry events.

  • Maintain high standards of professionalism, communication, and operational credibility.

  • Support partner integration efforts alongside customer and vendor personnel when required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

  • Demonstrated experience with controlled kinetic systems, weaponized UAS platforms, or munitions integration.

  • Experience operating in live-fire, safety-critical, or high-risk operational environments.

  • Prior instructional, evaluator, or team-lead experience in a military or comparable operational environment.

  • Strong understanding of range safety principles and risk mitigation practices.

  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally in support of training events.

  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally in support of training events. (50%)

Physical

  • Ability to work in the field and austere environments for up to 15 hours at a time

  • Ability to wear body armor, helmet, and other PPE for extended durations of up to 15 hours

  • Experience working with demolitions and conducting high-risk training evolution

  • Ability to lift 100 lbs from the ground to above waist level on a regular basis

  • Comfortable with high OPTEMPO travel of up to 50%

  • Ability to work in all weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold, for extended periods of time

Preferred

  • Veteran with experience in combat arms, EOD, fires, SOF, tactical UAS, or related operational specialties.

  • Experience with kinetic drone employment or fire control integration.

  • Prior experience delivering formal training or certification events.

  • Familiarity with multi-platform UAS integration environments.

  • Experience supporting partner or international training engagements.

SALARY & BENEFITS

Kraken Kinetics is committed to offering a competitive compensation package to attract and retain top talent. This full-time, exempt position offers an annual salary range of $90,000- $115,000 depending on qualifications and experience.

Benefits included:

  • Generous PTO policy

  • Comprehensive medical coverage (80% company-paid for employee + dependents).

  • Vision & dental (100% company-paid)

  • Short and long-term disability coverage (100% company-paid)

  • Generous 401(k) retirement plan

  • Company-paid life insurance

  • Great teammates and well stocked snacks

LIFE IN MOORE COUNTY, NC (PINEHURST AREA)

Kraken Kinetics is based in Moore County, North Carolina, home to Pinehurst, a nationally recognized destination offering an exceptional quality of life.

Employees benefit from a low cost of living, minimal congestion, and a strong sense of community, with easy access to larger metropolitan areas, including Raleigh-Durham.

Whether you're looking to accelerate your career or put down long-term roots, the Pinehurst area offers a compelling alternative to traditional tech and defense hubs.

We are committed to supporting relocation for the right candidates.

Watch what it’s like to live here:
[ Video Link]

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Kraken Kinetics is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and welcome applicants of all backgrounds.

Compensation Range: $90K - $115K