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Close Protection Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Control Risks

Executive Protection Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

Offer close protection to the Principal in a discreet manner, intervening only when absolutely necessary. * Remain constantly prepared to respond swiftly to any security incidents or emergencies.

Control Risks

Executive Protection Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Offer close protection to the Principal in a discreet manner, intervening only when absolutely necessary. * Remain constantly prepared to respond swiftly to any security incidents or emergencies.

Control Risks

Executive Protection Driver

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Offer close protection to the Principal in a discreet manner, intervening only when absolutely necessary. * Remain constantly prepared to respond swiftly to any security incidents or emergencies.

Leidos

Fire Protection Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $132K/yr

Leidos is seeking a Fire Protection Engineer (with expertise in Fire Life Safety) to join the ... close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above. Pay Range:

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All JobsClose Protection JobsClose Protection Jobs in Chicago, IL

Close Protection information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do close protection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for close protection in Chicago, IL is $19.33, 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 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 popular job titles related to Close Protection jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Close Protection jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Close Protection jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Close Protection jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Close Protection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Close Protection job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 69% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 30% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,209 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Executive Protection Specialist - Global Protective Operations

Gavin de Becker & Associates

Chicago, IL • On-site

$120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Mission: The Safety, Privacy and Wellbeing of our Clients
Executive Protection Specialists are tasked with providing close protection coverage for GDBA clients during domestic and international field details. Every member of this team must be experienced, physically fit, flexible, and adaptable.
As a full-time hourly employee, first year earnings for this role will start at a minimum of $120,000 per year. This position offers earnings potential of up to $150,000+ commensurate with experience, overtime opportunities, and more. 
This is a travel-in position that is not tied to a specific GDBA Office. Suitable candidates should live within a short distance of a major airport.
Ideal candidates must possess all the following: 

  • Extensive real-world experience working in a close protection role with UHNW individuals or other types of recognizable public/government figures during domestic and international travel.
  • This role requires a high level of comfort operating as a security driver in various locations and vehicle types, including experience with route planning and driving a manual transmission vehicle.
  • Experience independently conducting both physical and online advances, resulting in clear, well-written advance reports. Candidates should demonstrate a strong familiarity with navigating FBOs, hotels, and a wide range of public venues.

Selection Process Requirements: 

  • 12-Day Introductory Training Academy in San Antonio, TX 
  • Must 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 
  • Must be able to obtain appropriate state firearm and security licensing 
  • Background check required 

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