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Close Protection Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Aurora

Animal Protection Officer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$24.55 - $30.69/hr

... close quickly and without notice. OVERVIEW OF POSITION / DEPARTMENT Housing and Community ... Performs duties as the dispatcher for the Animal Protection Officers in the field, as needed

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$19

$26

How much do close protection officer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Close Protection Officer, and why are they important?

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 typically 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 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 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.

More about Close Protection Officer jobs
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:
What states have the most Close Protection Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Close Protection Officer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Close Protection Officer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Close Protection Officer jobs are:
Close Protection Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Close Protection Officer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,194 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Executive Protection Field Specialist - Prior Law Enforcement Preferred

Executive Protection Field Specialist - Prior Law Enforcement Preferred

Gavin de Becker & Associates

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

GDBA's Mission: The Safety, Privacy, and Wellbeing of our Clients
Protectors in this role will earn no less than $150k in their first year with GDBA.
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