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Close Protection Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

The role will report to the Systems Engineering Manager and will require close coordination with ... Maintain a compliant Fire Protection Program aligned with applicable DOE directives and company ...

The role will report to the Systems Engineering Manager and will require close coordination with ... Maintain a compliant Fire Protection Program aligned with applicable DOE directives and company ...

The role will report to the Systems Engineering Manager and will require close coordination with ... Maintain a compliant Fire Protection Program aligned with applicable DOE directives and company ...

The role will report to the Systems Engineering Manager and will require close coordination with ... Maintain a compliant Fire Protection Program aligned with applicable DOE directives and company ...

New

The role will report to the Systems Engineering Manager and will require close coordination with ... Maintain a compliant Fire Protection Program aligned with applicable DOE directives and company ...

New

The role will report to the Systems Engineering Manager and will require close coordination with ... Maintain a compliant Fire Protection Program aligned with applicable DOE directives and company ...

The role will report to the Systems Engineering Manager and will require close coordination with ... Maintain a compliant Fire Protection Program aligned with applicable DOE directives and company ...

The role will report to the Systems Engineering Manager and will require close coordination with ... Maintain a compliant Fire Protection Program aligned with applicable DOE directives and company ...

The role will report to the Systems Engineering Manager and will require close coordination with ... Maintain a compliant Fire Protection Program aligned with applicable DOE directives and company ...

The role will report to the Systems Engineering Manager and will require close coordination with ... Maintain a compliant Fire Protection Program aligned with applicable DOE directives and company ...

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Close Protection information

See Ohio salary details

$11

$18

$25

How much do close protection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for close protection in Ohio is $18.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $20.10 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.

Is close protection a good career?

Close protection is a security role focused on safeguarding individuals, often requiring physical fitness, situational awareness, and security training or certifications. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in security, but it also involves high responsibility, irregular hours, and potential risks. Success in this field depends on skills, experience, and adherence to safety protocols.

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 protecting against. Salaries can vary based on the employer, certifications, and whether they work full-time or on a contract basis.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

In close protection, highly experienced bodyguards or security specialists working for high-net-worth individuals or on high-profile assignments can earn around $2,000 per day. Such roles often require specialized skills, certifications, and the ability to operate in high-pressure environments, with pay varying based on risk, location, and client demands.

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.

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 jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

In close protection, high-level security professionals such as bodyguards for wealthy clients or executives can earn $10,000 or more per month, especially with experience, specialized skills, and sometimes certifications like first aid or firearms training. These roles often involve irregular hours, high responsibility, and working in high-pressure environments, but they do not always require a formal degree.

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 Ohio? The most popular types of Close Protection jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Close Protection jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Close Protection job openings:
Infographic showing various Close Protection job openings in Ohio as of June 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 $38,212 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Specialist, Close Protection (Executive Protection)

Specialist, Close Protection (Executive Protection)

Nationwide

Columbus, OH โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

If you're passionate about being part of a dynamic organization that enables a Fortune 100 company with nearly $70 billion in annual sales to drive innovation and adopt new technologies that deliver business results, then Nationwide's Technology team could be the place for you! At Nationwide, "on your side" goes beyond just words. Our customers are at the center of everything we do and we're looking for associates who are passionate about delivering extraordinary care.

Are you an experienced professional with a passion for safeguarding others? We're looking for dedicated individuals to join our team in Columbus, OH.

This role requires a strong background in law enforcement or corporate security, proven risk assessment and protection planning skills, and the ability to remain calm and decisive in high-pressure situations.

Flexibility for frequent travel and non-standard hours is essential, along with strong judgment, discretion, and collaboration with internal and external security partners.

If you're committed to excellence and ready to make a significant impact, we invite you to be part of our team.

Location Requirement: Candidates must be based within a commutable distance to Columbus, Ohio.

Work Authorization: This role does not qualify for employer-sponsored work authorization. Nationwide does not participate in the STEM OPT Extension program.

#LI-KR1

Job Description Summary

Providing a safe, secure environment for our workforce and visitors is crucial at Nationwide. Our Protective Services team monitors security needs and assists associates with security and safety-related issues. If you are safety focused, a very effective communicator, detail oriented and ready to serve and protect our executives, associates and the public, we want to know more about you!
As a Close Protection and Event Security Specialist, you'll provide security planning and protection for associates and executives during domestic and international events, ensure safe environments through proactive risk assessment, coordinate with internal and external partners, and execute comprehensive security plans. You'll operate with flexibility and independence while using sound judgement, high attentiveness and provide extraordinary care.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conducts risk assessments and develops security plans for events, travel, and off-site meetings.
  • Coordinates secure transportation and logistics, including route planning and emergency protocols.
  • Monitors intelligence and incorporates findings into protection strategies.
  • Partners with law enforcement and external agencies to ensure seamless protection.
  • Conducts physical and threat assessments; recommends security enhancements.
  • Develops and implements emergency response protocols and contingency plans.
  • Provides emergency medical support and de-escalates potential threats.
  • Occasionally supports and provides executive protection for the CEO and Board of Directors.
  • Provides surveillance, counter-surveillance and covert protection for CEO, Board of Directors, and events.
  • Collaborates with Close Protection and Event Planning teams to ensure safe execution of events.
  • Provides close protection for visiting dignitaries / executives from outside Nationwide.

May perform other responsibilities as assigned.

Reporting Relationships: Reports to Manager, Close Protection and Event Security. This is an individual contributor role

Typical Skills and Experiences:

Education: Undergraduate studies in business administration, psychology, criminal justice, security management, or other related areas preferred.

License/Certification/Designation: Must meet all required training standards and maintain annual firearm licensure required to carry a firearm for a given state: May be required to obtain a concealed carry permit depending upon assignment. Will be required to obtain and must qualify for an AOA (Airport Operations Area). Must undergo a pre-employment psychological assessment to determine fitness for duty. Must pass a pre-employment and biannual physical evaluation.

Experience: Typically, five or more years demonstrated experience in law enforcement, corporate security, or executive protection security.Experience with active shooter response, counterterrorism, crisis management, and close protection preferred.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills: Strong understanding of private security laws, corporate security protocols, and executive protection practices. Skilled in risk assessment, threat management, and developing security plans. Capable of de-escalating threats and leading emergency response calmly and effectively. Proficient in law enforcement techniques, including communication, first aid, and use of firearms. Excellent verbal and written communication skills; able to interact with executives and external partners. Technically proficient with personal computing and security systems. Proficient in advanced protective driving skills, including evasive maneuvers, motorcade operations and route planning. Maintain a valid driver's license and pass driving proficiency examination. Physically fit to perform demanding tasks (e.g., lifting, standing for extended periods).

Other criteria, including leadership skills, competencies and experiences may take precedence.

Staffing exceptions to the above must be approved by the hiring manager's leader and Human Resource Business Partner.

Values: Regularly and consistently demonstrates the Nationwide Values.

Job Conditions:

Overtime Eligibility: Exempt (Not eligible)

Working Conditions: Must be able to work flexible office hours to include weekends, holidays, special event coverage or emergency situations as needed. Must be able to successfully pass physical fitness requirements, a psychological exam, and a pre-employment and annual criminal background checks. Requires 20 - 40% travel or more.

ADA: The above statements cover what are generally believed to be principal and essential functions of this job. Specific circumstances may allow or require some people assigned to the job to perform a somewhat different combination of duties.

Credit/Background Check: Due to fiduciary responsibilities and high security accountability within this role, a credit check may be conducted, subject to state law. Candidates must successfully pass a criminal background check.

Safety Sensitive: This job has been identified as a Safety Sensitive position and, according to our substance free workplace program, may be subject to random alcohol and other drug testing.

Benefits

We have an array of benefits to fit your needs, including: medical/dental/vision, life insurance, short and long term disability coverage,paid time off with newly hired associates receiving a minimum of 18 days paid time off each full calendar year pro-rated quarterly based on hire date, nine paid holidays, 8 hours of Lifetime paid time off, 8 hours of Unity Day paid time off, 401(k) with company match, company-paid pension plan, business casual attire, and more. To learn more about the benefits we offer, click here.

Nationwide is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels challenged, appreciated, respected and engaged. Nationwide prohibits discrimination and harassment and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to any characteristic (or classification) protected by applicable law.


NOTE TO EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES:

We value the partnerships we have built with our preferred vendors. Nationwide does not accept unsolicited resumes from employment agencies. All resumes submitted by employment agencies directly to any Nationwide employee or hiring manager in any form without a signed Nationwide Client Services Agreement on file and search engagement for that position will be deemed unsolicited in nature. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is subsequently hired as a result of the referral or through other means.

Nationwide pays on a geographic-specific salary structure and placement within the actual starting salary range for this position will be determined by a number of factors including the skills, education, training, credentials and experience of the candidate; the scope, complexity and location of the role as well as the cost of labor in the market; and other conditions of employment. If a Sales job, Sales Incentives, based on performance goals are possible in addition to this range. Note on Compensation for Part-Time Roles: Please be aware that the salary ranges listed below reflect full-time compensation. Actual compensation may be prorated based on the number of hours worked relative to a full-time schedule.The national salary range for Specialist, Close Protection & Event Security - SS : $79,500.00-$148,500.00The expected starting salary range for Specialist, Close Protection & Event Security - SS : $79,500.00 - $119,500.00