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Close Protection Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Marriott

Executive Protection Specialist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

Job Summary The Executive Protection Specialist is responsible for providing close protection and security support to designated Marriott International executives and other protectees. Operating as ...

Marriott

Executive Protection Specialist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

Job Summary The Executive Protection Specialist is responsible for providing close protection and security support to designated Marriott International executives and other protectees. Operating as ...

Constellis

Personal Protection Officer

Reston, VA

$17 - $20/hr

Provide close protection and general security support for designated personnel, ensuring safe movement and situational awareness in all operational environments. * Execute assigned security duties in ...

Constellis

Personal Protection Officer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Provide close protection and general security support for designated personnel, ensuring safe movement and situational awareness in all operational environments. * Execute assigned security duties in ...

Epwired

Director, Executive Protection

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Provide hands‑on support for protective operations as required, including close protection, advances, and protective driving. * Lead or support high‑risk or high‑visibility executive movements ...

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All JobsClose Protection JobsClose Protection Jobs in Washington, DC

Close Protection information

See Washington, DC salary details

$13

$21

$29

How much do close protection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for close protection in Washington, DC is $21.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $23.94 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 Washington, DC?

For Close Protection jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Close Protection jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Close Protection jobs in Washington, DC are:

Close Protection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Close Protection job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 66% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,507 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Executive Protection Specialist

Washington, DC • On-site

Gavin de Becker & Associates
Investigation and Physical Security Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Gavin de Becker & Associatesexternal

$120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

GDBA is seeking a Field Travel Protector to be ready and able to travel internationally up to 130 days per year. This support may come at a Residential Command Center, on a Field Detail, conducting an advance, or completing a Secure Transportation Operation (STO).

First year earnings for this role start at a minimum of $90,000 based on a 40-hour work week. This position offers earnings potential of up to $120,000+ commensurate with experience, overtime opportunities, bonuses, travel pay and more. A sign-on bonus and training academy scholarship is also available.

Who You Are:

  • GDBA is seeking qualified men and women from diverse backgrounds that can bring their skills and experiences to our firm's protective mission. GDBA's ideal candidate for this position possesses one or more of the following experience levels/credentials:

    • 3+ 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. As is experience as an FBI Special Agent / United States Secret Service - Uniformed Division.
    • 5+ 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). Experience advancing and providing close protection on domestic and international field details is highly preferred.
    • 5+ years of Special Operations (SOF) military experience – All Branches Welcome to Apply. Unique experiences such as CIA Global Response Staff (GRS) is also highly desirable.
Mission: The Safety, Privacy and Wellbeing of our Clients
  • 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.

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