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Weapons Instructor Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Martial Arts Instructor

Okemos, MI · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

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Weapons Instructor information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$18

$31

How much do weapons instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for weapons instructor in Michigan is $18.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $20.96 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 Michigan? For Weapons Instructor jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Weapons Instructor job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,439 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Military Science Instructor

Goldbelt, Inc.

Houghton, MI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Overview

Goldbelt Glacier is accelerating healthcare delivery and providing superior force health readiness across the military, federal, and civilian landscapes. Goldbelt Glacier is committed to providing transformative and comprehensive health operational capabilities to support customers across scientific, clinical, technological, and program management areas.

Summary:

The U.S. Army Cadet Command (USACC) ROTC Support Services program requires dynamic Military Science instruction and training through adult learning techniques in both classroom and field training contexts.

On an annual basis, Army ROTC requires this training for an average of 31,000 Cadets Nationwide in a classroom environment on a variety of military subjects and have a vibrant summer program where over 7,800 Cadets participate. Under our contract to address this need Team Glacier provides 51 full-time instructors. In addition to providing this instruction, we also have the challenge to meet one very critical Army goal: maintain a 95% or higher staffing level at 51 colleges and universities across the nation and U.S. territories. Further compounding the complexity of this task, candidates must meet stringent qualifications. Team Glacier has mitigated this challenge by employing innovative sourcing strategies.


Responsibilities

Essential Job Functions:

  • Teach effectively in a classroom and field training setting, presenting both standardized instruction and creative workshops
  • Contractor personnel shall have demonstrated instructor ability in military field training exercises and be able to live/instruct in field environment for extended periods during training exercises
  • Meet the academic institution’s qualifications and requirements for instructor positions at that institution

Qualifications

Necessary Skills and Knowledge:

  • Have knowledge and experience of military training and field training evaluations
  • Possess knowledge of basic Soldier skills, including map reading, land navigation, marksmanship, drill and ceremonies, weapons experience with U.S Army small arms
  • Possess a thorough knowledge of the Army organizational structure, mission objectives, function, procedures, agency regulations, and policy pertaining to the Department of the Army
  • Possess knowledge of safety skills in the use of small arms, ammunition, and pyrotechnics
  • Possess computer skills, including operation of Microsoft word processing, spreadsheets, and graphics programs, the performance of user maintenance, Microsoft Windows environments, and familiarity with e-mail and internet environment and operations

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Have been a Commissioned or Non-Commissioned Officer (Staff Sergeant or above) within the U.S Army, Active Component, or former or current officer in the U.S Army Reserve, or Army National Guard Permanent support minimum six years prior
  • Active or Reserve Component military experience
  • Temporary support minimum four (4) years prior active or reserve military experience. Experience shall be current (within the last five years at the time of initial assignment as a contractor instructor) and have been terminated with an honorable discharge or retirement
  • Will be subject to background checks for Positions of Significant Trust and Authority (POSTA)
  • Will be subject to pre-employment and/or random drug testing

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Six (6) years preferred prior active or reserve military experience

Pay and Benefits

At Goldbelt, we value and reward our team's dedication and hard work. We provide a competitive base salary commensurate with your qualifications and experience. As an employee, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company matching, tax-deferred savings options, supplementary benefits, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications:

Necessary Skills and Knowledge:

  • Have knowledge and experience of military training and field training evaluations
  • Possess knowledge of basic Soldier skills, including map reading, land navigation, marksmanship, drill and ceremonies, weapons experience with U.S Army small arms
  • Possess a thorough knowledge of the Army organizational structure, mission objectives, function, procedures, agency regulations, and policy pertaining to the Department of the Army
  • Possess knowledge of safety skills in the use of small arms, ammunition, and pyrotechnics
  • Possess computer skills, including operation of Microsoft word processing, spreadsheets, and graphics programs, the performance of user maintenance, Microsoft Windows environments, and familiarity with e-mail and internet environment and operations

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Have been a Commissioned or Non-Commissioned Officer (Staff Sergeant or above) within the U.S Army, Active Component, or former or current officer in the U.S Army Reserve, or Army National Guard Permanent support minimum six years prior
  • Active or Reserve Component military experience
  • Temporary support minimum four (4) years prior active or reserve military experience. Experience shall be current (within the last five years at the time of initial assignment as a contractor instructor) and have been terminated with an honorable discharge or retirement
  • Will be subject to background checks for Positions of Significant Trust and Authority (POSTA)
  • Will be subject to pre-employment and/or random drug testing

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Six (6) years preferred prior active or reserve military experience

Pay and Benefits

At Goldbelt, we value and reward our team's dedication and hard work. We provide a competitive base salary commensurate with your qualifications and experience. As an employee, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company matching, tax-deferred savings options, supplementary benefits, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME