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Close Protection Officer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chipotle

Lead Workplace Protection Specialist

Newport Beach, CA

$99K - $138K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... officers and their guests while at work, as they travel, and attend events. You will accomplish ... Successful completion or an executive / close protection training academy or military / law ...

Confidential

Executive Protection

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$73K - $145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... officers with close protection experience, who work well under pressure and commonly evolving conditions · Hourly rate, DOE, above industry standard · Flexible scheduling, with (2) day minimum work ...

Global Guardian

Executive Protection Agent

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $26.75/hr

Provide close protection and other security-related duties for the client during domestic ... Review CEO's itinerary and any sensitive events or travel adjustments. * Advance arrival at meeting ...

Global Guardian

Executive Protection Agent

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$58 - $60/hr

Provide close protection and other security-related duties for the client during domestic ... Review CEO's itinerary and any sensitive events or travel adjustments. * Advance arrival at meeting ...

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All JobsClose Protection Officer JobsClose Protection Officer Jobs in California

Close Protection Officer information

See California salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do close protection officer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for close protection officer in California is $19.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.87 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.

What qualifications do I need for close protection officer work?

A close protection officer typically needs relevant security or law enforcement experience, a valid security license or certification, and training in first aid, conflict management, and threat assessment. Physical fitness and good communication skills are also essential, and some roles may require specialized training such as firearms or surveillance courses.

What qualifications do I need to be a close protection officer?

To become a close protection officer, candidates typically need relevant security or law enforcement experience, a valid security license, and specialized training in protective tactics, first aid, and conflict management. Many employers also require physical fitness, good communication skills, and background checks. Certifications such as Close Protection or Executive Protection training are often preferred.

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

The most popular types of Close Protection Officer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Close Protection Officer jobs in California?

For Close Protection Officer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Close Protection Officer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Close Protection Officer jobs in California are:

Close Protection Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Close Protection Officer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,668 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Executive Protection Field Specialist - Prior Law Enforcement Preferred

Gavin de Becker & Associates

Palo Alto, CA

$185K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

GDBA's Mission: The Safety, Privacy, and Wellbeing of our Clients 

This is a full-time hourly position with first-year earnings ranging from $185,000 to $225,000.

To learn more about earnings, promotions, benefits, and more - visit GDBA.com/careers

Your Role as a Protector: 

  • Threat and risk assessment: Continuously evaluating potential threats and vulnerabilities to develop mitigation strategies.
  • Advance planning: Conducting reconnaissance of locations, planning secure travel routes, and preparing emergency plans before the client arrives.
  • Close protection: Providing a physical security presence and immediate defense for the client during travel and events.
  • Crisis management: Making rapid, decisive actions during emergencies, including medical incidents, security breaches, or hostile situations.
  • Secure transportation: Arranging and providing secure transport, which includes defensive and evasive driving
  • Liaison: Coordinating with law enforcement, local authorities, and venue staff to ensure a seamless and secure operation.
  • Surveillance: Performing surveillance detection and counter-surveillance to identify and deter threats.
  • Residential protection: Monitor the property through command center technology, screening visitors and vendors, and controlling all access points to the protected site.

Who You Are: 

GDBA's ideal candidate for a this position possesses one or more of the following:

  • 10+ years working in a full-time certified law enforcement officer position(s). Federal, State, and Local level officers are all encouraged to apply. 
  • HR-218 (LEOSA) or CA CCW eligibility is ideal.
  • 10+ years of experience conducting close protection/executive protection operations for high-net-worth clients/at-risk clients. Experience working in one of or a combination of the following environments is preferred: Residential, Corporate, Technology, or Military/Law Enforcement Protective Services Details (PSD).
  • 10+ years of Special Operations (SOF) military experience - All Branches Welcome to Apply. Unique experiences such as CIA Global Response Staff (GRS) are also highly desirable. 

Hiring Process Requirements:

  • 12-Day Introductory Essential Protector Skills (EPS) Training Academy in San Antonio, TX
  • Be able to pass physical readiness test (Pull-ups, Push-ups, Sit-ups, 800m run)
  • Must be able to swim
  • Must be drug and nicotine free
  • Background check required
  • Must be able to obtain appropriate state firearm and security licensing

Apply