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Close Protection Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Comcast NBCUniversal is looking for a Close Protection Officer providing personal security support for senior executives as part of our Global Security Operations (GSO) team. This role will be based ...

Comcast NBCUniversal is looking for a Close Protection Officer providing personal security support for senior executives as part of our Global Security Operations (GSO) team. This role will be based ...

Comcast NBCUniversal is looking for a Close Protection Officer providing personal security support for senior executives as part of our Global Security Operations (GSO) team. This role will be based ...

Personal Protection Officer

Reston, VA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Personal Protection Officer (PPO) - Security Services provides comprehensive ... Provide close protection and general security support for designated personnel, ensuring safe ...

Security Officer

Lexington, KY · On-site

$41K - $50K/yr

Perform as a member of a Protective Services Detail and/or stands-alone protection officer/patrol security officer/close protection agent. * Recognize probable threats and mitigate risk to principle ...

Security Officer

Lexington, KY · On-site

$41K - $50K/yr

Perform as a member of a Protective Services Detail and/or stands-alone protection officer/patrol security officer/close protection agent. * Recognize probable threats and mitigate risk to principle ...

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Close Protection Officer information

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$12

$19

$26

How much do close protection officer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for close protection officer in the United States is $19.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a close protection officer?

A Close Protection Officer (CPO), often referred to as a bodyguard, is a security professional responsible for ensuring the safety and security of individuals who may be exposed to elevated personal risk due to their status, occupation, or public profile. CPOs assess potential threats, plan secure routes, and provide physical protection during travel and public appearances. They often work for celebrities, politicians, business executives, or other high-profile clients and may operate alone or as part of a larger security team. Close Protection Officers must have specialized training, situational awareness, and discretion to manage security risks effectively.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a close protection officer?

To thrive as a Close Protection Officer, you need advanced security training, situational awareness, risk assessment abilities, and often a background in law enforcement or the military. Proficiency with communication devices, surveillance systems, and possession of relevant licenses or certifications (such as SIA Close Protection in the UK) are typically required. Discretion, quick decision-making, and strong interpersonal skills help build client trust and effectively de-escalate tense situations. These competencies ensure the safety of clients, enable rapid response to threats, and foster professional relationships in high-risk environments.

How does a close protection officer collaborate with clients and other security personnel during an assignment?

A Close Protection Officer (CPO) works closely with clients to understand their specific concerns, preferences, and routines, ensuring that personalized security plans are effectively implemented. CPOs also coordinate with other members of the security team, such as surveillance operators, drivers, and venue security staff, to maintain seamless protection coverage. Regular communication and briefings are essential, especially when traveling or attending public events, to adapt to changing circumstances and potential threats. This collaborative approach helps ensure the client’s safety while maintaining discretion and professionalism.

What is the difference between Close Protection Officer vs Security Guard?

AspectClose Protection OfficerSecurity Guard
CredentialsSecurity certifications, first aid, threat assessmentBasic security training, sometimes licensed
Work EnvironmentHigh-profile clients, mobile, event securityStatic locations like buildings, malls
Employer & IndustryPrivate security firms, VIP protectionCommercial, retail, industrial sites
Search & Comparison IntentProtection, threat prevention, personal safetyAccess control, property security

While both roles focus on security, a Close Protection Officer specializes in safeguarding individuals, often in mobile or high-risk environments, requiring specialized training. Security Guards typically monitor premises and control access, with less emphasis on personal protection. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right security service for their needs.

How much do close protection officers get paid?

Close protection officers typically earn between $40,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the level of threat they are assigned to. Salaries can be higher for those with specialized skills, certifications, or working in high-risk environments. Many also receive additional benefits such as overtime pay and per diem allowances.
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What cities are hiring for Close Protection Officer jobs?

Cities with the most Close Protection Officer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Close Protection Officer jobs?

The most popular types of Close Protection Officer jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Close Protection Officer jobs?

The top employers for Close Protection Officer jobs are:

What states have the most Close Protection Officer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Close Protection Officer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Close Protection Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,194 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Close Protection Officer

NBCUniversal

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide personal security support for senior executives, including close protection duties.

  • Develop and implement security and logistical plans for domestic and international travel of executives.

  • Make independent operational decisions, conduct risk assessments, and coordinate with law enforcement and security teams.


NBCUniversal rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 78 rated media


Job description

Company Description

NBCUniversal is one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies. We create world-class content, which we distribute across our portfolio of film, television, and streaming, and bring to life through our global theme park destinations, consumer products, and experiences. We own and operate leading entertainment and news brands, including NBC, NBC News, NBC Sports, Telemundo, NBC Local Stations, Bravo, and Peacock, our premium ad-supported streaming service. We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through our powerhouse film and television studios, including Universal Pictures, DreamWorks Animation, and Focus Features, and the four global television studios under the Universal Studio Group banner, and operate industry-leading theme parks and experiences around the world through Universal Destinations & Experiences, including Universal Orlando Resort, home to Universal Epic Universe, and Universal Studios Hollywood. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. Visit www.nbcuniversal.com for more information.

Our impact is rooted in improving the communities where our employees, customers, and audiences live and work. We have a rich tradition of giving back and ensuring our employees have the opportunity to serve their communities. We champion an inclusive culture and strive to attract and develop a talented workforce to create and deliver a wide range of content reflecting our world.

Job Description

Comcast NBCUniversal is looking for a Close Protection Officer providing personal security support for senior executives as part of our Global Security Operations (GSO) team. This role will be based in Philadelphia, New York City, and Los Angeles and require periodic travel. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on security operations team member, have experience providing close protection, tactical/military or law enforcement training and be competent operating in a small security detail environment. The role requires a high degree of professionalism, polish, and confidentiality as well as a flexible schedule and a willingness to adapt to last minute assignments including weekend work. Above all, the role requires the ability to seamlessly blend in a business environment, evaluating risk, and providing behind the scenes bespoke security coverage for public facing C-Suite Executives.

Responsibilities include:

  • Close protection duties including being a lead CPO for senior executives
  • Develop and implement complete security and logistical plans for domestic and international travel for assigned executives
  • Make critical independent and on-scene operational decisions and interface with law enforcement when necessary
  • Conduct complex advance, risk assessments and site analysis prior to executive arrival
  • Creation of a Residential Security program
  • Coordinate driving services for executive while collaborating with designated security drivers
  • Liaise with law enforcement; venue security; executive protection peers; special event planners
  • Develop, in partnership with the broader GSO leadership team, crisis management protocols for the executive
  • Other GSO duties as assigned
Qualifications

Qualifications/Requirements:

  • 10+ years of professional experience in law enforcement, military, corporate security, and/or a related role with executive level experience 
  • Bachelor’s degree in relevant field
  • Valid and active driver’s license
  • Valid U.S. Passport
  • Current and active HR 218 certification and the ability to become licensed to carry a firearm for security purposes in relevant states
  • Ability to complete and meet company standards for background and reference checks, drug testing
  • Proven track record of sound decision making
  • A broad network of contacts throughout local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies
  • Strong working knowledge of emerging trends of executive protection, corporate security and/or law enforcement
  • Strong leadership, management, and interpersonal skills, dealing effectively with all levels of management
  • Ability to build and sustain excellent relationships at multiple levels and across divisions
  • Self- motivated operator with the ability to work collaboratively in a fast paced and dynamic setting
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Operational experience and the ability to respond quickly to security concerns in real time
  • Must be willing to travel, as needed, and at times on short notice
  • Must be willing to be on call and available 24/7 for emergencies

Desired Characteristics:

  • Close Protection certification from an accredited program (governmental or private sector)
  • Tactical experience (SWAT, defensive tactics, CQB)
  • EMT or BLS certification
  • Tactical/Evasive driver training certification
  • International experience
  • Supervisory experience 

Additional Information 

Required On-Site: This position is required to be performed full-time from an NBCUniversal-designated worksite.

This position is eligible for company sponsored benefits, including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k), paid leave, tuition reimbursement, and a variety of other discounts and perks. Learn more about the benefits offered by NBCUniversal by visiting the Benefits page of the Careers website. Salary: $145,000- $150,000 


Additional Information

As part of our selection process, external candidates may be required to attend an in-person interview with an NBCUniversal employee at one of our locations prior to a hiring decision. NBCUniversal's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require support throughout the application and/or recruitment process as a result of your disability, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation. You can submit your request to AccessibilitySupport@nbcuni.com.


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