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Weapons Instructor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

This position is typically represented by an experienced military USAF/USN/USMC Weapons Systems ... Contract Instructor will facilitate pilot training in the F-35 Full Mission Simulator using the ...

Instructor

Irvine, CA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

... Weapons Operations and Maintenance (OM) and Instructor qualification Compensation: There are multiple positions available. These will be filled by qualified fulltime employees (FTE). O'Gara offers a ...

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Weapons Instructor information

See California salary details

$9

$20

$35

How much do weapons instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for weapons instructor in California is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $23.70 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-specific instructor courses, and passing background checks. The process involves training in safety, teaching methods, and legal regulations, and may take several weeks to months depending on the program and individual preparedness.

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.

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.

Can you make money as a firearms instructor?

A firearms instructor can earn income by providing training courses, private lessons, and certifications to individuals or groups. Income varies based on experience, location, and the number of clients, with some instructors working full-time and others part-time. Certification from recognized agencies and strong safety skills are essential for earning a reliable income in this field.

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, often supplemented by certifications and specialized skills in firearm safety and handling.

What do NRA instructors get paid?

NRA instructors typically earn between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the type of training provided. Some instructors may work part-time or as independent contractors, which can affect their overall earnings. Certification and specialized skills can also influence pay rates.

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 are popular job titles related to Weapons Instructor jobs in California? For Weapons Instructor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Weapons Instructor job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,525 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Administration of Justice (SRPSTC) Adjunct Assistant Professor Pool

Los Rios Community College District

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$48.37 - $146.67/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 9 hours ago


Los Rios Community College District rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

254th of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Salary: $48.37 - $146.67 Hourly
Location : (ARC) 4700 College Oak Dr, Sacramento, CA 95841
Job Type: Faculty - ADJ
Job Number: REQ00920
College: American River College
Opening Date: 05/08/2025
Closing Date: 5/31/2027 11:59 PM Pacific
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: LRCFT
Faculty Track: Non-Tenure Track
Beginning (on or about): 08/21/2025
Hours per Week: To Be Determined.
Additional Information: Responsible for on-ground instruction in all levels of Public Safety Training.
Campus Website: https://arc.losrios.edu/about-us/mission-vision-and-values
Work Schedule: To Be Determined. The assignment may include day, evening, online, hybrid, weekend, and/or off-campus classes/hours.
Additional Salary Information: Initial salary within a given range varies, depending upon units/degrees completed at accredited institutions and experience. Candidates who do not hold the minimum degree requirement may start at a salary lower than posted. Please see Position Summary for additional information.
Position Summary
The Los Rios Community College District is seeking qualified candidates for this part-time, temporary (Adjunct) faculty position. Adjunct positions are filled as needed through ongoing recruitment. Applicants are contacted and hired year-round for assignments based on college needs.
The adjunct faculty member shall be responsible for the following: teaching assigned classes under the supervision of the area dean; helping students fulfill their maximum potential in mastering course content; assessing student learning outcomes; maintaining a thorough and up-to-date knowledge in their regular teaching field; continuing professional development; utilizing current technology in the performance of job duties; maintaining standards of professional conduct and ethics appropriate to the professional position; assisting with articulation and curriculum development and review; serving on college committees and participating in faculty governance including accreditation and student co-curricular activities; assuming other responsibilities as assigned by the area dean; fulfilling other duties and responsibilities of an adjunct faculty member.
Position Salary Information:
Initial maximum salary placement is based on academic degree, upper/graduate level units earned, and/or related professional occupational experience per the(the initial maximum placement is Class V, Step 1). For more information on the step placement process, please click here
Typical Duties
The Administration of Justice Sacramento Regional Public Safety Training Center (SRPSTC) adjunct faculty member assignment responsibilities include: helping students fulfill their maximum potential in mastering course content; assessing student learning outcomes; maintaining a thorough and up-to-date knowledge in their regular teaching field; maintaining instructor certification in their teaching field as required by regulatory agencies (e.g., California Commission on Peace Officer Training and Standards, Standards and Training for Corrections, etc.); continued professional development; utilizing current technology in the performance of their job duties; maintaining standards of professional conduct and ethics appropriate to the professional position; assisting with articulation and curriculum development and review; serving on college committees and participating in faculty governance including accreditation and student co-curricular activities; assuming other responsibilities as assigned by the area dean; fulfilling other duties and responsibilities of a part time faculty member.
The Sacramento Regional Public Safety Training Center (SRPSTC) courses are not part of the Administration of Justice (ADMJ) program; they are designated as Public Safety Training courses.
The instructional assignment may include, but is not limited to, teaching on-ground/face-to-face courses in all levels of Public Safety Training including courses adhering to POST and STC certification requirements:
  • PSTC1270: Juvenile Corrections Officer Core
  • PSTC1271: Adult Correctional Officer Core Course
  • PSTC1273: Probation Officer Core Course
  • PSTC1403: Basic Skills for the Non-Sworn Investigator
  • PSTC1501: PC 832 Arrest, Search & Seizure
  • PSTC1502: Basic Law Enforcement Academy- Module III
  • PSTC1503: Basic Law Enforcement Academy- Module II
  • PSTC1504: Basic Law Enforcement Academy- Module I
  • PSTC1515: Academy Instructor Certification Course
  • PSTC1520: POST Supervisor
  • PSTC1521: STC Supervisor Core
  • PSTC1533: Internal Affairs Investigation
  • PSTC1542: Property and Evidence Room Management
  • PSTC1555: Regulatory Investigative Techniques
  • PSTC1571: Field Training Officer
  • PSTC1572: Field Training Officer - Update
  • PSTC1573: Field Training Program Supervisor, Administrator, Coordinator Course
  • PSTC1602: Arrest and Control Instructor
  • PSTC1603: Arrest and Control Instructor Advanced
  • PSTC1604: Arrest and Control Instructor Update
  • PSTC1621: Impact Weapons Instructor
  • PSTC1622: Impact Weapons Instructor - Update
  • PSTC1640: Firearms Familiarization (PC 832)
  • PSTC1645: Force and Weaponry - Basic
  • PSTC1646: Force and Weaponry - Advanced
  • PSTC1648: Firearms/ Tactical Rifle
  • PSTC1650: Firearms and Tactical Rifle Instructor
  • PSTC1651: Firearms Instructor Update
  • PSTC1654: Firearms / Rifle Instructor - Update
  • PSTC1683: Continuing Professional Training for Peace Officers
  • PSTC1761: Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
  • PSTC1780: Campus Law Enforcement
  • PSTC1781: School Resource Officer
  • PSTC1787: School Security Officer
  • PSTC1800: Interview and Interrogation Techniques
  • PSTC1801: Background Investigations
  • PSTC1812: Fingerprint Identification - Basic
  • PSTC1813: Crime Scene and Forensic Photography of Physical Evidence
  • PSTC1814: Advanced Latent Print Comparison & Identification
  • PSTC1852: Drug and Alcohol Recognition - Update
  • PSTC1874: Traffic Collision Investigation - Intermediate
  • PSTC1900: Traffic Collision - Basic
All SRPSTC courses are conducted in person and are not offered online.
To view a complete list of courses for this discipline, please visit the Programs and Majors webpage for the specific campus:SRPSTC classes are not offered at any other LRCCD college.
Minimum Qualifications
  1. Have a bachelor's degree andtwo (2) years experience; OR an associate's degree andsix years experience; OR the equivalent. All degrees must be from an accredited institution completed by time of hire.
  2. Have an equity-minded focus, responsiveness, and sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, including those with physical or learning disabilities as it relates to differences in learning styles; and successfully foster and support an inclusive educational and employment environment.

Application Instructions
Before You Apply:
Follow the steps below to ensure your application is complete and ready for review. Applicants not following the guidelines below may be disqualified. Do not submit additional materials not requested or you may be disqualified.
Required Application Documents:
Applicants must submit the following
  1. Los Rios Community College District Application
  2. Letter of Interest
  3. Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  4. Unofficial Transcripts and/or Foreign Transcript Evaluation (see Transcript Requirements)
  5. (if applicable - see Minimum Qualification Requirements)

Minimum Qualification Requirements:
  • Degree titles must match the stated qualifications exactly (word-for-word).
  • If the degree title differs, or if it contains added, missing, or rearranged words, applicants must submit a completed Equivalency Determination Request Form for the application to be considered. See the webpage for details.
    • Example: If a master's in Psychology is required but your transcript lists Counseling Psychology, and that title is not listed in the Minimum Qualifications, an Equivalency Determination Request Form must be submit.
  • Previously granted equivalencies must be attached for verification. Email hr-recruitment@losrios.edu for a replacement copy.

Transcript Requirements:
  • Transcripts must be from an accredited U.S. institutions or approved foreign evaluation agency.
  • Foreign transcript evaluations must be issued by an (Association of International Credential Evaluation, Inc.) or (National Association of Credential Evaluation Services) member agency. See the webpage for details.
  • Transcripts must clearly identify the degree(s) being used to meet the Minimum Qualifications.
  • If more than one degree is required to meet the Minimum Qualifications (e.g., a bachelor's and a master's), transcripts for each degree must be included
  • Transcripts must show the degree title and indicate whether each degree is completed or in progress.
  • If the degree is in progress the application must state, the month and year the degree is expected to be attained.

Additional Instructions:
  • Only information listed on the application and transcripts will be used to verify Minimum Qualifications.
  • Applications stating "see resume" will be disqualified.
  • Applications missing any required documentation will be disqualified.

Los Rios Community College District offers competitive salaries and a very comprehensive employee benefits package to include medical insurance, CalSTRS retirement, and opportunities for additional insurance and financial investments.
To learn more about the benefits available to you click the link below.

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