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Armada Ltd

Weapons Based Instructor I

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

Weapons Based Instructors deliver training in support of the Navy's AT and Weapons Training Program. This includes the following courses of instruction: Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor (SAMI)

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How much do weapons training jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for weapons training in the United States is $21.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs work with weapons?

Jobs that involve working with weapons include military personnel, law enforcement officers, security guards, and private security contractors. These roles often require firearm training, safety certifications, and adherence to strict regulations. Other related positions include weapons instructors, armorers, and tactical trainers in various security and defense settings.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Weapons Training roles and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Weapons Training often face challenges such as adapting instructional methods to diverse learning styles, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of evolving weapon systems, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. To address these, trainers typically engage in continuous professional development, participate in refresher courses, and collaborate closely with colleagues and safety officers. Building strong communication skills and fostering a culture of safety and respect are also essential for effective training and risk mitigation.

What is the difference between Weapons Training vs Security Guard?

AspectWeapons TrainingSecurity Guard
Required CertificationsFirearms license, weapons handling certificationSecurity officer license, basic security training
Work EnvironmentMilitary, law enforcement, private security with firearmsCommercial buildings, events, residential areas
Industry UsageLaw enforcement, military, private security firmsSecurity companies, corporate clients

Weapons Training focuses on firearm handling, safety, and proficiency, often requiring specific licenses. Security Guard roles involve general security duties, with or without firearms, emphasizing surveillance and access control. While both roles may overlap in security settings, Weapons Training is specialized in firearm skills, whereas Security Guards provide broader security services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Weapons Training, and why are they important?

To excel in Weapons Training, you need a comprehensive understanding of firearms safety, ballistics, marksmanship, and legal regulations, often supported by military or law enforcement experience and relevant certifications. Familiarity with specific weapons platforms, range safety procedures, and training simulators is essential for effective instruction and safe handling. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills in this role. Mastery of these skills ensures both the safety and proficiency of trainees, as well as compliance with legal and organizational standards.

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 whether they work for private training companies, law enforcement, or as independent trainers. Many instructors also supplement income through private lessons or specialized certifications.

What is weapons training?

Weapons training is the process of teaching individuals how to safely handle, operate, maintain, and use various types of weapons, such as firearms or military equipment. This training is essential for military personnel, law enforcement officers, and sometimes civilians who require proficiency in weapon usage for their roles. It covers safety protocols, marksmanship, tactical skills, legal considerations, and proper storage. The goal is to ensure that trainees can use weapons responsibly and effectively while minimizing risks.

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.

How long does it take to become a certified firearm instructor?

Becoming a certified firearm instructor typically requires completing a training course that lasts from a few days to several weeks, depending on the program and certification level. Candidates often need to pass written and practical exams, demonstrate shooting proficiency, and meet age and background requirements. The process also involves gaining experience with firearms and safety protocols before certification is awarded.
More about Weapons Training jobs
What states have the most Weapons Training jobs? States with the most job openings for Weapons Training jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Weapons Training jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Weapons Training jobs are:
Weapons Training jobs near you
Infographic showing various Weapons Training job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,018 per year, or $21.2 per hour.
Weapons Based Instructor I

Weapons Based Instructor I

Armada Ltd

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Type: Full Time

Location: Chesapeake, VA

Overtime Exempt: No (SCA)

Reports to: ARMADA HQ


Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Weapons Based Instructors deliver training in support of the Navy's AT and Weapons Training Program. This includes the following courses of instruction: Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor (SAMI); Antiterrorism Training Supervisor (AT TRASUP); Security Reaction Force-Advanced (SRF-A); Armed Sentry/Security Reaction Force-Basic (AS/SRF-B); Submarine Force Sentry (SUBFOR Sentry); Submarine Force Crew Served Weapons Instructor (SUBFOR CSWI); Crew Served Weapons Operations and Maintenance (CSW O Crew Served Weapons Instructor (CSWI); Non-Lethal Weapons Basic instructor (NLW-BI); Non-Lethal Weapons Senior Instructor (NLW-SI);; Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure Boarding Officer (VBSS BO); and Non-Compliant Boarding, Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (NCB VBSS).

Basic Instructor Qualifications:

  • Weapons Based Instructors shall support delivery of CENSECFOR AT/NSF Course of Instruction in accordance with the contract PWS including the instructional, operational, and administrative tasks required to deliver formalized training.
  • Instructor personnel are expected to be ready to teach the content assigned to them and can pass any tests associated with that content consistent with the standards of the contractor's internal quality assurance plan.
  • All instructors shall be familiar with all presentation, delivery method, testing and remediation procedures, curriculum, training aids, devices, electronic podiums, and equipment operation and maintenance procedures associated with the course or section of the course they will instruct.

In addition to those general instructor requirements, Weapons-Based Instructors shall:

  • Possess at least two 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.
  • Be qualified as a Small Arms Weapons (SAMI) Instructor.
  • For instructors who have the Non-Compliant Boarding, Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (NCB VBSS) course assigned as their primary course, possess or be able to qualify as a Second Class Swimmer in accordance with NETC P1552/16 (Navy Swimming and Water Survival Instructors Manual).
  • Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

All instructor personnel shall possess the instructional qualifications contained within this Section. All instructors shall possess one of the following:

  • Have attended the Navy Instructor Training Course (NITC) (A-012-0077) (or military service equivalent).
  • Academic credentialing (teacher/professor).
  • Civilian Security Force.
  • Possess a basic understanding of Military/Civilian Security Force techniques.
  • Be qualified as a Small Arms Weapons (SAMI) Instructor.

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.

Physical Fitness Standards:

  • The CENSECFOR courses of instruction require instructors who possess the fitness and conditioning to support the level of instruction.
  • 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. Fitness standards are sustained throughout their employment. Instructors shall sign a Statement of Understanding acknowledging the above requirements.

Minimum Education:

  • GED/HS Diploma

Applying: If you feel you have the knowledge, skills and abilities for this position visit our careers page at www.armadausa.com.

Disclaimer:

The above information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of the contractor assigned to this position.

Special Notes: Relocation is not available for these jobs.

ARMADA provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. ARMADA complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.


Must be able to successfully pass a background check, and pre-employment drug testing. Job offers are contingent upon results of background check and drug testing.