HSE Instructor (New & Existing)

Hunter Safety Education (HSE) Instructors in Oregon serve as vital volunteers with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), helping to teach and promote safe, responsible, and ethical hunting practices. These instructors deliver ODFW-approved hunter education courses that include instruction in firearm safety, hunting laws, outdoor survival, wildlife conservation, and responsible behavior in the field. Instructors lead both classroom sessions and hands-on field components such as live-fire exercises and skills demonstrations. They work with youth and adult students to ensure they understand key safety principles and legal responsibilities before heading into the field. By fostering a strong foundation in safety and conservation, instructors play a critical role in shaping the next generation of hunters and stewards of Oregon’s wildlife resources. This is a rewarding opportunity for those passionate about hunting, teaching, and giving back to their outdoor community.

Program Structure & Advancement

  • 14 - 20 year olds should register as a HSE Junior Instructor.
  • 21+ year olds should register as a HSE Instructor.
    • ODFW will provide New Instructor Training, allowing you to advance to the HSE Certified Instructor position.
  • In order to create, post, and lead your own classes, you must apply and be given ODFW approval as an HSE Certified Lead Instructor.
  • HSE activities are organized within each county by an HSE Area Coordinator and their HSE Assistant Area Coordinator(s).
  • Ultimately, the program is led by ODFW's Hunter Education Program Coordinator in tandem with Program Staff.
Hunter Safety Education (HSE) Image

Equipment to be Used

Additional Information

Registration Requirements

  • • Minimum Age: 21
  • • Form A -Volunteers Who Drive
  • • Volunteer Code of Conduct
  • • Use of Firearms by Volunteers
  • • Preventing Harassment & Discrimination Training
  • • Wildfire Smoke Training
  • • Heat Illness Prevention Training
  • • Defensive Driving Training
  • • Fingerprint Appointment
  • • Volunteer Code of Conduct - Att C Criminal History Check Form for Volunteers
  • • Volunteer Code of Conduct - Att B Driving Certification Form for Volunteers
  • • Volunteer Code of Conduct - Att B Driving Certification Form for Non-Resident Volunteers
  • • Instructions to Submit Certified Driving Record - Non-Resident
  • • Privacy Act Statement


This Level includes: F&W Check LEDS-based Statewide Check Fingerprint-based FBI Background Check Drivers Verification

Volunteer Prerequisites Not Met

Acknowledgement of Responsibility as Parent or Legal Guardian for Minors under 18

Restrictions

Desired Skills & Knowledge

Physical Demands

Training Opportunities

  • • New Instructor Training - Hunter Safety Education

HSE Certified Instructor, BHSE Certified Instructor