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Weapons Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... weapons employment. These specific areas coincide with assigned areas of responsibility and are the ... Instructor - Be available during duty hours to answer student training questions - Conduct ...

$350K - $400K/yr

On-site This is a full-time position as a F-16 Weapons Instructor Course (WIC) Instructor Pilot. As an F-16 WIC instructor and Subject Matter Expert (SME), you will provide academic training and ...

$350K - $400K/yr

On-site This is a full-time position as a F-16 Weapons Instructor Course (WIC) Instructor Pilot. As an F-16 WIC instructor and Subject Matter Expert (SME), you will provide academic training and ...

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Weapons Instructor information

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$36

How much do weapons instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for weapons instructor in the United States is $21.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Weapons Instructors face when training individuals with varying experience levels?

Weapons Instructors often work with trainees who have a wide range of backgrounds, from complete beginners to seasoned professionals. One major challenge is adapting teaching methods to accommodate different learning speeds and styles while ensuring safety remains the top priority. Instructors must balance hands-on demonstrations, classroom instruction, and real-life scenario training to maximize understanding and retention. Effective communication and patience are essential, as is the ability to quickly assess and address knowledge gaps or safety concerns in a group setting.

How long does it take to be a gun instructor?

Becoming a weapons instructor typically requires completing a certified training program that can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the level of instruction and certification requirements. Candidates often need prior firearm experience, pass background checks, and obtain relevant certifications such as NRA instructor or state licensing, which may include additional training or testing. The total time varies based on the specific certification and training provider.

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

To thrive as a Weapons Instructor, you need extensive firearms knowledge, instructional experience, and relevant certifications such as NRA instructor credentials or military training backgrounds. Proficiency in using firearms simulators, range safety systems, and training management software is typically required. Strong communication, leadership, and situational awareness are essential soft skills for effectively teaching and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are critical for delivering safe, effective instruction and maintaining high standards of competency in weapons handling.

What is the difference between Weapons Instructor vs Firearms Instructor?

AspectWeapons InstructorFirearms Instructor
CredentialsTypically requires military or law enforcement firearms training, certifications in weapons handlingRequires firearm safety and training certifications, often NRA or state-specific
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, law enforcement agencies, security training facilitiesGun ranges, training centers, law enforcement agencies, civilian training programs
Employer & IndustryMilitary, law enforcement, security companiesPrivate firearms training schools, law enforcement, civilian shooting ranges

While both roles involve firearm training, a Weapons Instructor typically has a broader scope, including tactical and combat skills, often within military or law enforcement contexts. A Firearms Instructor mainly focuses on safety, marksmanship, and firearm handling for civilians or law enforcement. The key difference lies in the scope of training and the work environment.

How much do Glock firearms instructors make?

Glock firearms instructors typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the type of training provided. Full-time instructors may have annual salaries ranging from $30,000 to $70,000, especially if working for security or law enforcement agencies, and often require certification and firearm safety training credentials.

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 the type of training provided. Many work for private training companies, law enforcement agencies, or operate independently, often requiring certifications such as NRA instructor credentials. Salaries can vary based on the number of clients and hours worked.

What is a Weapons Instructor?

A Weapons Instructor is a trained professional responsible for teaching individuals or groups how to safely operate, maintain, and handle various types of weapons, such as firearms or military equipment. They often work with military personnel, law enforcement officers, or private security teams to ensure proper weapons use, safety protocols, and marksmanship. Weapons Instructors may also develop training programs, conduct live-fire exercises, and evaluate proficiency. Their expertise is crucial in minimizing accidents and increasing the effectiveness of those handling weapons.

What is the salary of weapon instructor?

The salary of a weapons instructor varies depending on experience, location, and employer, but typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 annually. Certified instructors with specialized skills or military and law enforcement backgrounds may earn higher wages and additional benefits.
More about Weapons Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Weapons Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Weapons Instructor job openings:
What states have the most Weapons Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Weapons Instructor jobs include:
Weapons-Based Instructor - San Diego, CA

Weapons-Based Instructor - San Diego, CA

F3EA Inc

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$39 - $40/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

Weapons-Based Instructors will have demonstrated experience in Antiterrorism (AT), Security Operations, and/or weapons training to fulfill Weapons-Based Instructor positions for Antiterrorism/Navy Security Force (AT/NSF) in support of CENSECFOR detachment Chesapeake, VA. Weapons-based instructors will be responsible for demonstrating modern dynamic combat shooting skills where they will deliver a wide range of training topics, as well as provide instructional and safety support for live-fire weapons training. Qualified candidates shall possess:

  • Possess at least two (2) years of past military experience in a weapons-carrying and employment operational environment or equivalent experience as a Law Enforcement officer with a military or civilian security force.
  • Possess a basic understanding of Military/Civilian Security Force techniques.
  • Possess high personal standards of technical knowledge and professional competence in delivering training material.
  • Possess the ability to perform in a military environment.
  • Possess a familiarity with the organization and hierarchy of the U. S. Navy, military rank/grade structure.
  • Possess a knowledge of Navy and military terminology, and shipboard/installation environments and configurations.
  • Possess knowledge of basic and advanced training techniques and of computer technology applications as they apply to instructional delivery.
  • Instructors shall be personally capable of performing all training evolutions including the ability to effectively complete weapons qualifications in the standing, kneeling, and prone positions, ascend or descend ladders and go through narrow passageways, and be free of any abnormal fear of heights.

Roles and Responsibilities:

Instructors shall be responsible for delivering and instructing the following courses:

  • Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor (SAMI)
  • Armed Sentry/Security Reaction Force-Basic (AS/SRF-B)
  • Submarine Force Sentry (SUBFOR Sentry)
  • Security Reaction Force-Advanced (SRF-A)
  • Antiterrorism Training Supervisor (AT TRASUP)
  • Non-Compliant Boarding, Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (NCB VBSS)
  • Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure Boarding Officer (VBSS BO)
  • Crew Served Weapons Operations and Maintenance (CSW O&M)
  • Crew Served Weapons Instructor (CSWI)
  • Submarine Force Crew Served Weapons Instructor (SUBFOR CSWI)
  • Non-Lethal Weapons Basic instructor (NLW-BI)
  • Non-Lethal Weapons Senior Instructor (NLW-SI)

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • None

REQUIRED QUALFICATIONS AND EDUCATION:

At a minimum, Weapons-Based instructors shall have one of the following qualifications:

  • Have attended the Navy Instructor Training Course (NITC) (A-012-0077) (or military service equivalent)
    1. Academic credentialing (teacher/professor)
    2. Instructor training via an academic institution. Academic ITC requirements should contain, at a minimum, the following Learning Objectives:
      • Effective communication and questioning techniques
      • Adult learning theory and principles
      • Instructional Delivery methods
      • Lesson delivery performance laboratory
      • Training environment management
      • Interpersonal skills
      • Evaluation and Feedback
  • A Copy of the graduation certificate or service education print out showing graduation from one of the above courses MUST be uploaded and accompany application
  • A copy of DD-214, with redacted SSN, showing completion of one of the above courses will also suffice.

At a minimum, Weapons-Based Instructors shall also have one of the following qualifications:

  • Be qualified as a small arms weapons instructor. Specific qualification requirements are:
    1. Completion of one of the small arms instructor courses:
    2. Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor (SAMI) Course (A-041-0148)
    3. CSWI Course (A-830-2215)
    4. Seahawk Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course (S-050-0836)
    5. Submarine Forces CSWI Course (A-041-0012)
    6. Expeditionary Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor Course (A-060-0005)
    7. The Marine Corps Marksmanship Instructor (Military Occupational Specialty 0931) Course
    8. DoD-Equivalent Small Arms and CSWI Courses
    9. The Federal Law Enforcement Training Center Small Arms Instructor Course
    10. Non-DoD. Any other small arms or CSWI course equivalencies approved by OPNAV Ashore Readiness Division (OPNAV N46)
  • A Copy of the graduation certificate or service education print out showing graduation from one of the above courses MUST be uploaded and accompany application.
  • A copy of DD-214, with redacted SSN, showing completion of one of the above courses will also suffice.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION:

  • Current certification in Basic First Aid from the American Heart Association, American Red Cross, National Safety Council, American Safety and Health Institute, or other locally available means.
  • TCCC Level II or Civilian Equivalent

WORK AUTHORIZATION/SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:

  • Secret Clearance

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:

  • Office environment, indoor/outdoor, cold/heat, etc.
  • Environment: office, outdoor
  • Equipment Used: Computer or other technical equipment.
  • Sitting: 25%
  • Standing: 50%
  • Walking: 25%
  • Lifting: Up to 40lbs. 10% of the Time
  • Hours: Full-time work week (Monday through Friday)
  • Travel: 15%

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

Must be able to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic and constantly changing environment.

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EEO STATEMENT

F3EA, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. F3EA, Inc. makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.


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About F3EA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Savannah, GA, US

Year founded

2013