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Bodyguard Protection Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Bodyguard Protection information

See Washington, DC salary details

$30K

$71K

$113.3K

How much do bodyguard protection jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for bodyguard protection in Washington, DC is $70,975.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,900.00 and $81,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do bodyguards earn?

Bodyguards typically earn between $40,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the level of threat they are protecting against. Highly experienced or specialized bodyguards working for high-profile clients can earn significantly more, often exceeding $150,000 per year. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance and overtime pay, especially for those working long or irregular hours.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Bodyguard protection roles can pay $4,000 or more per week for experienced security professionals, especially those working with high-profile clients or in executive protection. These jobs often require specialized training, security certifications, and a valid license, but typically do not require a college degree. Earnings depend on experience, risk level, and the nature of assignments.

What are bodyguard protection services?

Bodyguard protection services involve providing personal security to individuals who may be at risk of harm, such as celebrities, executives, or politicians. Bodyguards are trained professionals who assess threats, plan secure routes, and accompany clients to prevent potential dangers. Their duties can include crowd control, surveillance, and responding to emergencies to ensure the client's safety. Bodyguards may work alone or as part of a team, adapting their approach based on the specific needs and risks faced by their clients.

What are some common challenges bodyguards face while working with high-profile clients?

Bodyguards working with high-profile clients often face challenges such as maintaining constant vigilance in unpredictable environments and adapting quickly to changes in schedules or locations. They must balance providing a visible deterrent with remaining discreet to avoid drawing unnecessary attention. Additionally, they regularly coordinate with other security personnel, law enforcement, and sometimes the client's team to ensure seamless protection. Managing these dynamics requires strong communication skills and the ability to stay calm under pressure.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

High-level security professionals such as executive protection agents or bodyguards working for high-net-worth individuals can earn up to $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-profile environments. Other roles in finance, law, or executive management may also reach this income level, but for bodyguards, earnings depend on client demand, risk level, and additional compensation like bonuses or benefits.

How much money do bodyguards get paid?

Bodyguards typically earn between $40,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the level of threat they handle. High-profile security details or those working for celebrities and executives often receive higher pay and may work irregular hours or require specialized training and certifications.

What is the difference between Bodyguard Protection vs Security Guard?

AspectBodyguard ProtectionSecurity Guard
CredentialsLicenses, firearms training, first aidSecurity officer license, basic training
Work EnvironmentPersonal protection, high-profile clientsBuildings, events, public spaces
Employer & IndustryPrivate clients, celebrities, executivesBusinesses, government facilities
Search & Comparison IntentProtection, personal securitySurveillance, access control

While both roles focus on safety, Bodyguard Protection specializes in personal, close-protection services for high-profile individuals, requiring specialized training and credentials. Security Guards typically monitor premises and control access, with a broader scope in public or private settings. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right security service for their needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bodyguard, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bodyguard, you need expertise in risk assessment, personal protection tactics, and often a background in law enforcement or military service, along with relevant security certifications. Familiarity with surveillance equipment, secure communications devices, and defensive driving techniques is typically required. Exceptional situational awareness, discretion, and strong decision-making under pressure set top professionals apart. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure client safety, effectively manage threats, and respond rapidly in high-stress situations.
What job categories do people searching Bodyguard Protection jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Bodyguard Protection jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Bodyguard Protection job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 14% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 64% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $70,975 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Security Officer IV, Grade N23

Montgomery County, MD

Rockville, MD • On-site

$76K - $122K/yr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Montgomery County (Maryland) rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

380th of 836 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary : $76,742.00 - $122,603.00 Annually
Location : 100 Edison Park Dr Gaithersburg MD 20878 USA
Job Type: Permanent
Job Number: 2026-00387
Department: Department of Police
Division: POL 47 FSB Security Services Division
Opening Date: 07/06/2026
Closing Date: 8/3/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
FLSA: Exempt
About the Position
Please note: The salary range above represents this position's earning potential. The anticipated hiring range for this position will be $76,742 - $122,603 and is based on the candidate's qualifications and experience.
WHO WE ARE
The Security Services Division is a key component of the Montgomery County Department of Police. We are responsible for delivering daily, proactive security services that safeguard County facilities, employees, and visitors. Our team provides comprehensive protective operations, threat assessments, incident response, and coordinated security support to ensure a safe and secure environment across County properties.
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR
The Montgomery County Department of Police is seeking a dedicated, highly motivated security professional to join our Protective Operations Section. We are looking for an individual who brings strong judgment, professionalism, and discretion to a mission-critical role supporting the safety of the County Executive and other designated officials.
The ideal candidate is:
  • Brings a solid background in personal protection, law enforcement, and security operations, with a deep commitment to public safety.
  • Able to assess dynamic situations, make rapid but sound decisions, and respond effectively during high-risk or fast-moving events.
  • Professional, personable and will represent the Department with integrity. Maintaining confidentiality, and communicating clearly with public officials, partner agencies, and the community.
  • Comfortable navigating varied environments, conducting thorough advance work, and maintaining situational awareness at all times.
  • Team-Focused and Dependable and will work collaboratively with peers and partner agencies.

This position works off site and will require evening and weekend work.
Applicants must have the ability to:
  • Pass a comprehensive background investigation conducted by the MCPD. (8 week process)
  • Pass a a medical examination, and a drug/alcohol screen.
  • Perform work assignments at different work locations when required
  • Work holidays, weekends and during days and evenings.

What You'll Be Doing
The incumbent of this position will be primarily assigned to the Security Services Division, Protective Operations Section, serving as a member of the security detail providing close protection for the County Executive and other officials as directed. Additionally, as a second level supervisory position, may be required to provide management of the staff and activities of the Security Operations Section, which provides active security through the use of both County Security Officers and a contract guard force that are responsible for patrolling property, monitoring of security cameras and alarms for County buildings, access control and responding to incidents.
Primary duties and core responsibilities include:
  • Accompany the protected official to public functions, providing safe transport and making advance arrangements to ensure a safe environment for the official upon arrival.
  • Develop and analyze the potential threats and provides, as necessary during the shift, escort/bodyguard protection for the County Executive.
  • Conduct advance work addressing basic movement, transportation and logistics, contingency and emergency planning, and site surveys.
  • Regular contacts include security specialists and agents in County, State, and Federal law enforcement and public safety agencies, public officials, representatives of professional organizations, members of the media, and the general public in order to obtain, clarify, or provide information; provide guidance and instruction concerning difficult and serious situations and/or security incidents; and gain compliance with established policies and regulations.
  • As an armed Special Police Officer with arrest authority, responds to on-going criminal activities and disruptive behaviour associated with the Executive Office Building security and County Executive protection; takes appropriate action to thwart the commission of crime and disruptive behaviors, apprehending individuals and issuing Disruptive Behaviors Orders and citations, as necessary.
  • Public service and assistance are provided to the public on a recurring and frequent basis and involves answering questions concerning government operations.
  • Prepares and submits written reports concerning unusual incidents occurring during assignments.
  • Investigates unusual and serious breaches of security with Police staff and supervisory personnel.
  • Performs related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Experience: Five (5) years of experience in personal protection work, criminal investigation, police
work, or related law enforcement work.
Education: Completion of high school or High School Certificate of Completion recognized in the State
of Maryland.
Equivalency: An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted.
LICENSE:
  • Certification as a Special Police Officer (SPO), or ability to obtain certification within the twelve (12) month probationary period; preferably within six (6) months of appointment to the position.
  • Certification in Defensive Driving Techniques, or ability to obtain certification within the twelve (12) month probationary period; preferably within six (6) months of appointment to the position.
  • Certification as a medical First Responder, or ability to obtain certification within the twelve (12) month probationary period; preferably within six (6) months of appointment to the position.
  • Possession of LEOSA (Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act) certification, or the ability to become LEOSA certified within six months of appointment to the position.
  • Possession and maintenance at all times of a valid Class "C" (or equivalent) driver's license from the applicant's state of residence.

Note: There will be no substitutions for this section.
OTHER:
  • A current safe driving record.

Preferred Criteria, Interview Preferences
  • Demonstrated knowledge of executive or dignitary protection practices, including advance work, threat recognition, and protective movement strategies.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of security operations in government or public-sector environments, including incident response protocols, site assessments, and facility security procedures.
  • Strong skill in managing or leading security personnel or teams, including coordinating operations, directing staff, and prioritizing tasks during routine and emergency events.
  • Strong in communicating effectively with senior officials, partner agencies, and the public, including the ability to convey information clearly during high-pressure or sensitive situations.
  • Ability to assess rapidly evolving situations and make sound, timely decisions to ensure safety and security.
  • Ability to maintain strict confidentiality, exercise discretion, and demonstrate consistent professionalism when working with high-level officials and confidential information.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The Office of Human Resources (OHR) reviews the minimum qualifications of all applicants, irrespective of whether the candidate has previously been found to have met the minimum requirements for the job or been temporarily promoted to the same position. This evaluation is based solely on the information contained in the application/resume submitted for this specific position.
Montgomery County Government(MCG) is an equal opportunity employer, committed to workforce diversity. Accordingly, as it relates to employment opportunities, the County will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities, in accordance with the law. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should email OHR at Hiring@montgomerycountymd.gov. Individual determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made in accordance with all applicable laws.
MCG also provides hiring preference to certain categories of veterans and veterans/persons with a disability. For more information and to claim employment preference, refer to the Careers webpage on Hiring Preference.
All applicants will respond to a series of questions related to their education, relevant experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities required to minimally perform the job. The applicant's responses in conjunction with their resume and all other information provided in the employment application process will be evaluated to determine the minimum qualifications and preferred criteria or interview preference status. Based on the results, the highest qualified applicants will be placed on an Eligible List and may be considered for an interview. Employees meeting minimum qualifications who are the same grade will be placed on the Eligible List as a "Lateral Transfer" candidate and may be considered for an interview.
This will establish an Eligible List that may be used to fill both current and future vacancies.
If selected for consideration for this position, you may be required to provide evidence that you possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities indicated on your resume.
Montgomery County Ethics Law: Except as provided by law or regulation, the County's "Public Employees" (which does not include employees of the Sheriff's office) are subject to the County's ethics law including the requirements to obtain advanced approval of any outside employment and the prohibitions on certain outside employment. The outside employment requirements of the ethics law can be found at 19A-12 of the County Code. Additional information about outside employment can be obtained from the Ethics Commission website.
Leave Benefits
Our generous leave package starts with non-MLS permanent and term employees earning 15 days of sick leave and 15 days of annual leave in their first year, as well as up to three additional personal days each calendar year. Positions in MLS earn 35 days of paid time off each year. In addition, we offer all employees 10 paid holidays. Our leave policies adhere to the Family Medical Leave Act of 1993, and we provide six weeks of paid parental leave for new parents.
Retirement Benefits
All permanent and term positions are eligible for robust retirement plans. Public safety positions are eligible for a defined benefit pension plan in which they are vested after only five years. Employees in non-public safety positions can participate in retirement plans that contribute up to 12 percent of their annual salary. All employees can also participate in a supplemental retirement plan, the 457 Deferred Compensation Plan, to contribute even more to their retirement goals.
Tuition Assistance & Student Loan Forgiveness
Montgomery County employees are eligible to participate in the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Participants who meet all requirements may qualify for forgiveness on the remaining balance on their Direct Loans after making 120 qualifying monthly payments under a qualifying repayment plan while working full-time in a qualifying public service position. To learn more about PSLF, please visit the Student Loan Repayment Benefits page. Our tuition assistance program allows you to receive up to $2,130 annually in tuition assistance to help you achieve a degree that supports your career path.
Free Mass Transit Benefit
County employees are entitled to use the RideOn Bus service for free with a valid County-employee ID. This benefit can be used any time of the day or evening, including weekends. We also offer a pre-tax flexible spending account to reduce the cost of other mass-transit options such as MARC trains and Metro.
Reduced Child and Health Care Costs
Working for Montgomery County also entitles permanent and term employees to participate in healthcare and childcare Flexible Spending Accounts. These plans allow eligible employees to save on a pretax basis for healthcare and dependent care costs incurred during the plan year.
Employee Wellbeing
We deeply care about your holistic wellness. Our award-winning wellness program, LiveWell, will support you in improving and maintaining your physical, mental, financial, social, and intellectual well-being.
Learn more about our wonderful benefits available to you once you join our team. Montgomery County Benefits
01
Do you possess a LEOSA (Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act) certification, or the ability to become LEOSA certified within six months of appointment to the position?
  • YES
  • NO

02
Do you have Five (5) years of experience in personal protection work, criminal investigation, police work, or related law enforcement work?
  • YES
  • NO

Required Question

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