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Close Protection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Executive Protection Paramedic is responsible for the safety and well-being of high-profile clients by providing close protection and emergency medical support. This role combines advanced ...

The Executive Protection Paramedic is responsible for the safety and well-being of high-profile clients by providing close protection and emergency medical support. This role combines advanced ...

Conduct armed close protection and personal security for clients in various environments. * Develop and implement threat assessments, route planning, and pre-advance operations. * Monitor and secure ...

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Close Protection information

See California salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do close protection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for close protection 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 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 comprehensive security training, situational awareness, and often a background in law enforcement or military service, alongside appropriate licensing or certification. Familiarity with surveillance equipment, defensive driving, and communication systems is typically required. Exceptional judgment, discretion, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safety of clients by enabling rapid, effective responses to potential threats in high-risk environments.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Close protection officers, also known as bodyguards, can earn $4,000 or more per week, especially with experience, high-profile clients, or specialized skills. These roles often require security training, certifications, and the ability to work irregular hours in high-pressure environments.

How do I become a close protection officer?

To become a close protection officer, individuals typically need to complete specialized training in security procedures, threat assessment, and first aid, often through certified courses. Many employers also require a background check, relevant licenses, and physical fitness, with some jurisdictions requiring law enforcement or military experience.

How much do close protection officers get paid?

Close protection officers typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the level of threat they are managing. 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 is the difference between Close Protection vs Security Guard?

AspectClose ProtectionSecurity Guard
CredentialsSecurity license, first aid, threat assessmentSecurity license, basic training
Work EnvironmentHigh-profile clients, mobile, event securityStatic locations, premises security
Employer & IndustryPrivate security firms, high-net-worth individualsCommercial, retail, residential properties

Close Protection and Security Guards both ensure safety but differ mainly in scope and environment. Close Protection involves safeguarding high-profile clients in dynamic settings, requiring specialized training. Security Guards typically monitor static locations like buildings or premises. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right security service for their needs.

Is close protection a good job?

Close protection involves safeguarding individuals, often requiring physical fitness, situational awareness, and security training. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in security, but it often involves irregular hours, high stress, and potential risks. Job satisfaction depends on personal interests and the ability to handle demanding environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Close Protection officers during assignments?

Close Protection officers often face challenges such as adapting quickly to rapidly changing environments, maintaining constant vigilance over long hours, and balancing the client's need for privacy with security requirements. Working in diverse locations means officers must be prepared to address unfamiliar risks, manage potential conflicts, and work discreetly while ensuring the client's safety. Effective communication and teamwork with other security professionals are essential to anticipate and respond to any threats proactively.

What are close protection officers?

Close protection officers, also known as bodyguards, are security professionals responsible for ensuring the safety and security of individuals who may be exposed to elevated personal risk, such as celebrities, executives, politicians, or other high-profile clients. Their duties include assessing threats, planning secure routes, accompanying clients, and responding to emergencies. Close protection officers are trained in risk assessment, conflict management, first aid, and defensive tactics to minimize potential harm to their clients.
What are the most commonly searched types of Close Protection jobs in California? The most popular types of Close Protection jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Close Protection jobs? Cities in California with the most Close Protection job openings:
Infographic showing various Close Protection job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% 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 Close Protection Agent

Executive Protection Close Protection Agent

Surefox North America, Inc.

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$45.59/hr

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Surefox North America Inc is a veteran owned company that prides ourselves on creating a diverse and unique culture of trained and talented individuals. We are currently seeking an experienced Full time Executive Protection Travel Team Member with high integrity and professionalism who can join our team here in the Bay Area.
The Executive Protection Travel Team Member is tasked with numerous functions in providing overall support and protective security and operates in a dynamic, multifaceted, and fast-paced environment. You will be working on uniquely assigned projects under the guidance of the Surefox Team Leader for our top Silicon Valley clients. The Executive Protection Travel Team Member provides observation, physical security, and overwatch to assigned clients at their residence. Due to the sensitive nature of this role, we require our Executive Protection Travel Team Member to pass a comprehensive background check and maintain an authorization within as deemed by Surefox standards. Our Executive Protection Travel Team Member are paid on an hourly basis with eligibility to earn overtime and double time pay. We are looking for someone who has exceptional observational skills and pays close attention to detail.
As we encourage veterans and candidates that are currently in the military reserve to apply, we welcome all who share the same passions for protection as we do. We are not offering visa sponsorship for this position at this time.
Base hourly $45.59
Work Schedule: 20 days on and 20 days off (HOR / CA)
Job Expectations:
Rotational scheduled - 20 days on / 20 days off
• Develop relationships with clients, facilitate collaboration, and have the ability to
influence informally across different departments within the team
• Track and report on program performance assurance and compliance requirements
within the provided guidelines
• Prepare reports on accidents, incidents, and suspicious activities
• Provide assistance to employees and create a safe and friendly environment for visitors
and clients in a professional manner
• Attend project meetings upon request to assess the security implications of proposed
changes
• Work independently and adapt to various work-paces while always maintaining a
high-level of attentiveness and energy
• Responsible for client and family safety, as well as safeguarding client assets
• Watch for unusual activity and respond immediately and safely to emergency situations
on-site
• Contact the police or fire department if and when there is an emergency
• Conduct ongoing threat, risk and vulnerability assessments
• Operate motor vehicles in a safe and legal manner
• Conduct protective advance operations
• Maintain up to date knowledge of local emergency services, routes, and points of
interest within a given area of responsibility
• Operate in a low profile, low footprint capacity
• Follow Executive Protection Standard Operating Procedures and Guidelines
• Comply with Surefox Policy and Procedures
What is required:
• Must be eligible for employment within the United States
• Must be a minimum of 18 years old per state licensing guidelines
• Must be able to pass an extensive background check and drug screening
• Must live within driving distance or be willing to relocate
• Must have a current state-approved guard card or eligible to qualify for guard card
• Must have a high school degree or equivalent and meet one of the following criteria:
• A graduate of a reputable executive protection training school
• 5+ years of corporate and high net worth executive protection experience
• 2+ years of security experience in a high threat environment
• Demonstrated competence in reacting to and handling emergencies
• Ability to effectively communicate with people at all levels and from various backgrounds
• Good judgment with the ability to make timely and sound decisions
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions
• Ability to work independently and as a team member
• Valid CCW license or willingness and ability to obtain valid CCW and any other related
and applicable required certification within 90 days of start date
• CPR/First Aid/AED for all ages is required
• Possess a valid and current driver license
• Valid U.S Passport
• Ability to work nights and weekends as required
• Ability to work autonomously, domestically and internationally
• Advanced medical and evasive driving experience
• Have an operational understanding of today's technology across all platforms
• Strong writing and interpersonal skills
What is desired:
• Security or law enforcement related experience preferred
• Military background is a plus
• Report writing experience preferred
• Experience working with families and children in a high net worth environment
• International experience
If you share our values and are ready to build your next career, we want to hear from you!