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Bodyguard Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Bodyguard - Contract Position (Travel Required)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$250 - $450/day

Executive Protection Specialists may be assigned individually or as part of a larger protection detail depending on the client and assignment. Responsibilities may include: * Provide discreet ...

Ceartas DMCA

Creator Evangelist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

You aren't there to "network"-you're there to act as a trusted bodyguard for their brands. * Lead the "Notes from the Field" Content: You will own our creator-facing social channels (TikTok, IG ...

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Bodyguard information

See California salary details

$16.2K

$84.5K

$172.3K

How much do bodyguard jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for bodyguard in California is $84,538.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,189.00 and $108,694.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bodyguard?

Bodyguards are trained security professionals who are responsible for protecting individuals, often referred to as clients or principals, from physical harm, threats, or harassment. They may work for celebrities, politicians, business executives, or anyone at risk of personal danger. Bodyguards assess potential threats, plan safe routes, and provide a visible deterrent to would-be attackers. Their duties can include close protection, risk assessment, and sometimes coordinating with law enforcement. Typically, bodyguards have backgrounds in law enforcement, military, or private security and receive specialized training in defensive tactics and emergency response.

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 personal security, risk assessment, and physical fitness, often supported by relevant security or law enforcement training. Familiarity with surveillance equipment, defensive driving, and certifications such as first aid or firearms licensing are commonly required. Exceptional situational awareness, discretion, and strong communication skills help Bodyguards anticipate threats and coordinate effectively. These competencies are essential for ensuring client safety and responding swiftly to any security challenges.

What does a bodyguard do?

A bodyguard provides personal protection for a client, keeping them safe from physical threats like assault, theft, kidnapping, or assassination. In this career, you may also protect the client’s belongings and privacy at the client’s request. You can work for any prominent individual, but most often, you work for celebrities, diplomats, and politicians. As a bodyguard, you also have to drive your clients from place to place, screen the area for any threats, and conduct the client where they need to go. For larger security teams, you may be responsible for a specific task or area that your client frequents.

How do bodyguards coordinate and communicate with clients and other security personnel during assignments?

Bodyguards maintain constant and discreet communication with clients and security teams using earpieces, radios, or secure messaging apps to ensure client safety and adapt to changing situations. They often participate in pre-assignment briefings to review routes, schedules, and potential risks, and work closely with drivers, venue security, and sometimes local law enforcement. Effective coordination is essential during high-profile events or when traveling, as seamless teamwork minimizes vulnerabilities and ensures rapid response to any threat. Building trust with clients and maintaining professionalism are also key aspects of daily interactions.

What is the difference between Bodyguard vs Security Guard?

AspectBodyguardSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsSecurity training, sometimes specialized (e.g., VIP protection)Basic security training, licensing varies by region
Work EnvironmentPersonal protection, often private clients or celebritiesPublic spaces, buildings, events, and facilities
Employer & Industry UsagePrivate security firms, high-profile individualsCommercial, retail, government, and private sectors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both bodyguards and security guards provide security services, bodyguards focus on personal protection for individuals, often requiring specialized training and working closely with high-profile clients. Security guards typically monitor premises and control access in various settings. The roles overlap in security fundamentals but differ mainly in scope and environment.

How do bodyguards get hired?

Bodyguards are typically hired through security agencies or directly by clients, often after completing relevant training and obtaining certifications such as first aid or security licenses. Employers usually evaluate candidates based on experience, background checks, physical fitness, and interpersonal skills, and may conduct interviews and assessments before making a hiring decision.

How do you become a bodyguard?

To become a bodyguard, individuals typically need to complete security training and obtain relevant certifications such as first aid and threat assessment. Many employers prefer candidates with law enforcement or military experience, and strong physical fitness and communication skills are essential for the role.

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 protection required. High-profile security professionals or those working for wealthy clients can earn significantly more, especially with specialized skills and certifications.
More about Bodyguard jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Bodyguard jobs in California?

The most popular types of Bodyguard jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Bodyguard jobs in California?

For Bodyguard jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bodyguard jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Bodyguard jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Bodyguard jobs?

Cities in California with the most Bodyguard job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Bodyguard jobs in CA?

For Bodyguard jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Bodyguard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bodyguard job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $84,538 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

Bodyguard - Contract Position (Travel Required)

Private Client

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$250 - $450/day

Contractor

Posted 16 days ago

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Job description

Executive Protection Specialists may be assigned individually or as part of a larger protection detail depending on the client and assignment.

Responsibilities may include:

  • Provide discreet executive and personal protection for clients during business, leisure, and social activities
  • Serve as a protective/security driver when required
  • Accompany clients on domestic and international travel
  • Conduct advance work for hotels, residences, restaurants, airports, venues, meetings, and events
  • Plan secure and efficient transportation routes and alternate routes
  • Coordinate arrivals and departures with drivers, aviation personnel, hotel teams, concierge staff, and other security professionals
  • Maintain situational awareness while remaining unobtrusive in luxury, corporate, and social environments
  • Identify potential security concerns and proactively mitigate risks
  • Assist with airport movements, luggage, vehicles, and other reasonable logistical needs when appropriate
  • Maintain strict confidentiality regarding clients, destinations, residences, itineraries, and activities
  • Adapt quickly to changing schedules and last-minute travel requirements
  • Work professionally alongside household staff, personal assistants, chauffeurs, hotel personnel, and other members of a client's team

What We Are Looking For

Ideal candidates will have professional experience in one or more of the following:

  • Executive Protection
  • Close Protection
  • Diplomatic or Dignitary Protection
  • Corporate Security
  • Military or Special Operations
  • Federal, State, or Local Law Enforcement
  • Protective Intelligence
  • Security / Protective Driving

Prior experience protecting high-net-worth or high-profile individuals, executives, families, celebrities, diplomats, or dignitaries is highly preferred.

Requirements

Candidates should:

  • Possess a valid driver's license and excellent driving record
  • Be comfortable operating luxury vehicles and SUVs
  • Be willing and able to travel domestically and internationally
  • Possess a valid passport and ability to travel internationally without significant restrictions
  • Maintain a professional, polished appearance
  • Demonstrate exceptional discretion and confidentiality
  • Have excellent situational awareness and judgment
  • Remain calm and professional under pressure
  • Communicate clearly and professionally with clients and staff
  • Be comfortable working irregular schedules, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended travel assignments
  • Successfully complete applicable background and credential verification

Current CPR/AED/First Aid certification and recognized executive protection or protective-driving training are strongly preferred.

Any armed assignments will require all licenses, permits, qualifications, and authorizations applicable to the assignment and jurisdiction.

The Bespoke Standard

We are specifically seeking professionals who understand that excellent executive protection is often quiet and unobtrusive.

Our clients may be staying at five-star hotels, attending private dinners, traveling aboard private or commercial aircraft, visiting residences, or attending high-profile events. The ideal candidate understands how to provide a strong protective presence without disrupting the client's experience.

Professional etiquette and service matter. Candidates should be comfortable opening doors, assisting with luggage when appropriate, communicating with hotel and household staff, and anticipating logistical needs while maintaining their primary security responsibilities.

Discretion is mandatory.

Client identities, photographs, itineraries, residences, conversations, and assignments are confidential and may not be discussed or shared on social media.

Preferred Qualifications

Preference may be given to candidates with:

  • Established Executive Protection training
  • Protective/Evasive Driving training
  • Military or law-enforcement background
  • EMT, Paramedic, TCCC/TECC, or advanced medical training
  • International protection experience
  • Experience with private aviation and FBO operations
  • Experience working with luxury hotels and private residences
  • Experience coordinating with local law enforcement or government security teams
  • Additional language capabilities
  • Valid security/protection licenses where applicable

Company Description

Bespoke Services is a private concierge, travel, and lifestyle management company serving a select clientele with highly personalized services in the United States and internationally.

We are expanding our network of experienced Executive Protection Specialists who can provide discreet personal protection, secure transportation, and travel support for private clients, executives, families, and VIP guests.

This is a client-facing position where professionalism, discretion, presentation, judgment, and service are equally as important as security experience.