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Weapons Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kina'ole Family of Companies

Weapons Armor II

GU

... Weapons Instructor (NEC 0812 and 0814 or 717B and 718B). * Successful completion of one tour of duty as an Ammunition Inventory Management Specialist (NEC 814A). * Successful completion of one tour ...

BGI, LLC

F-16 Instructor/SME

Tucson, AZ · On-site

... 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 ...

BGI (Ohio)

4th/5th Gen Pilot SME

NV

Over 1000 hours in a fighter aircraft (F-16 C/E, F-15 C/E/X, F/A-18 E/F, F-22, F-35 or comparable aircraft) USAF Fighter Weapons Instructor Course graduate, Marine Corps Aviation Weapons and Tactics ...

Starfish

Provides expert-level guidance on tactics development, mission planning, and threat assessment, leveraging graduate-level Weapons Instructor Course (WIC) training and advanced operational ...

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How much do weapons instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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 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 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 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.

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Weapons Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Weapons Instructor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,102 per year, or $21.2 per hour.
Expeditionary Weapons Based Instructor

Expeditionary Weapons Based Instructor

Prevailance

Gulfport, MS • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Description:

This position is contingent upon contract award.


Prevailance is seeking experienced, mission-focused professionals to be Weapons Based Instructors for Center for Security Forces (CENSECFOR) Expeditionary Combat Skills Courses in Gulfport, Mississippi.


Instructors will deliver a wide variety of training topics, as well as providing instructional and safety support for live-fire weapons training. 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.


All instructors must possess a valid driver's license, and be certified by the contractor as being fully qualified to operate the vehicles / equipment as appropriate. Some instructors shall be tasked to perform duties as a Weapons and Ammunition Security Representative for the transportation of weapons and/or ammunition to/from the firing range, and provide security on the weapons and ammunition during the training evolution.

Requirements:

Qualified candidates will have completed at least one of the following small arms instructor courses:

  • Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor (SAMI) Course (A-041-0148)
  • CSWI Course (A-830-2215)
  • Seahawk Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course (S-050-0836)
  • Submarine Forces CSWI Course (A-041-0012)
  • Expeditionary Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor Course (A-060-0005)
  • Marine Corps Marksmanship Instructor (Military Occupational Specialty 0931) Course
  • Federal Law Enforcement Training Center Small Arms Instructor Course
  • DoD-Equivalent Small Arms and CSWI Courses
  • Non-DoD (Any other small arms or CSWI course equivalencies approved by OPNAV Ashore Readiness Division (OPNAV N46))

Qualified candidates will:

  • Possess a minimum of 2 years’ experience in delivering weapons-based courses-of-instruction which include live-fire training and demonstrating modern dynamic combat shooting skills
  • Be capable of achieving and maintaining a “Sharpshooter” qualification with the M9 Service Pistol and M4 Carbine

Candidates will possess a minimum of two (2) years documented tactical military operational experience involving:

  • Basic Tactical Communications
  • Convoy Operations - Basic
  • Small Arms
  • Tactical Shooting
  • Counter Improvised Explosive Devices (C-IED)
  • Mission Planning
  • Basic Tactical Movement
  • Basic CBRNE Procedures
  • Tactical Decision Making (Shoot/Don’t Shoot)

Additionally, candidates must be:

  • Qualified 9502 (or equivalent), military instructor, or civilian teacher / professor, with at least 2 yrs experience delivering classroom training
  • 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 U. S. Navy, military rank / grade structure and knowledge of Navy and military terminology
  • Possess above average communication skills and the ability to comprehend both verbal and written instructions
  • Qualified / Formally Qualified Range Safety Officer (RSO)


Additional Skills

  • Current certification in Basic First Aid
  • Current certification in Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
  • Formally Qualified Explosive Drivers
  • Formally Qualified Line Coach (Small Arms)
  • Formally Qualified CBRNE Topic Instructor
  • Formally Qualified C-IED Topic Instructor
  • Formally Qualified Communication and Convoy Topics Instructor
  • Formally Qualified JET Topic Instructor
  • Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT)/CDL certification


Travel may be required.


Clearance

Must be able to obtain a favorable background investigation


EEO/VEVRAA Statement: Prevailance, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, marital status or any other consideration prohibited by law or contract. Prevailance, Inc. participates in E-Verify and is VEVRAA Compliant.