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Close Protection Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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Close Protection information

See Florida salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do close protection jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for close protection in Florida is $14.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $15.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a close protection officer?

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a close protection officer?

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 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 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.

How much can you make doing close protection?

Close protection officers typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the level of threat. Higher salaries are common for those working with high-profile clients or in high-risk environments, often supplemented by overtime and specialized skills such as first aid or firearms training.

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 threat assessment, first aid, and defensive tactics. Many employers also require good communication skills, physical fitness, and background checks. Certifications such as Close Protection or Executive Protection courses are often preferred.

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

The most popular types of Close Protection jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Close Protection jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Close Protection job openings:

Infographic showing various Close Protection job openings in Florida as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,036 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

Close Protection Officer

Miami, FL

$55 - $65/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform security and physical protection measures for high-profile individuals in various environments.

  • Conduct security advances and logistical support for events, venues, and travel activities.

  • Escort the client into public settings and maintain constant situational awareness and control.


Job description

Job Title:            Close Protection Officer III

Rate:                  $55 to $60 Per Hour

Location:             Miami, Florida

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The primary role of this position is to ensure the safety and security of select client family members.  The employee will provide high-quality protective services and support while safeguarding the client's assets and reputation.  This security professional will operate in high-profile domestic and international settings.

 DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Perform security and physical protection measures for high-profile individuals in various environments.
  • Conduct security advances and logistical support for events, venues, and travel activities.
  • Perform protective planning and threat vulnerability assessments.
  • Maintain a high level of confidentiality regarding any sensitive information on the client, physical protection means, and methods.
  • Interact professionally with team members, internal family, house staff, external individuals, and law enforcement officials.
  • De-escalate tense situations that arise at the client's residence, schools, or temporary venues.
  • Understand the client’s risks, including media, business, and personal travel, domestic and foreign operations.
  • Participate in event planning to ensure access control, asset protection, confidentiality, and other security matters are identified through a written plan accepted by the client.
  • Secure public locations before the client attends events.
  • Escort the client into public settings and maintain constant situational awareness and control.
  • Provide Security Driving for the client and select family members.
  • Follow company and client-directed SOPs.

Required Licenses:

Florida Class G Security License

Valid driver's license at time of hire and throughout employment

Valid US Passport

Unrestricted US Work Authorization

DESIRED PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES:

Professional demeanor in appearance, interpersonal relations, work ethic, and attitude.

Excellent communication skills, including fluency in English, both spoken and written.

Ability to communicate complex processes clearly and concisely.

Works well independently and as part of a team.

Takes responsibility and ownership for assigned and self-initiated tasks.

Excellent time management skills to ensure resources are spent on the highest priorities and proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment where changing directions happen frequently.

Foundational understanding of corporate security and global security operations.

Rapid and effective decision-making during unusual events or emergencies.

High levels of discretion and confidentiality.

MINIMUM & DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Five (5) years or more experience in relevant training and qualifications.

A bachelor's Degree is preferred, although equivalent/relevant experience can substitute for educational requirements.  

Formal personal protection training, including driver training and medical training.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Constant: Sitting, Standing, Seeing, Listening, Speaking

Periodic: Physical Training, Range Training, Specialized Training

Ability to climb stairs and walk on inclines/declines and on uneven terrain.

May be in situations where swimming is required.

24/7 availability to the client.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Work typically performed as a mobile team member, driving, or a passenger in a vehicle to venues, shopping, school, or events.

Ability to handle long shift hours mentally and physically.

Ability to work nights and weekends as required.