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Close Protection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ARDENT Protection, LLC

FL

Close protection and secure transportation for senior leadership of a Fortune 50 company * Close protection for multiple Fortune 500 executives As our client needs continue to expand, we are looking ...

Sandisk

Senior Executive Protection Specialist

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$88.68K - $146.87K/yr

Executive & Close Protection * Provide close protection to executives and family members at residences, offices, public venues, events, and during domestic and international travel. * Conduct ...

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How much do close protection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for close protection in the United States is $19.32, 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 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 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 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.

More about Close Protection jobs
What cities are hiring for Close Protection jobs? Cities with the most Close Protection job openings:
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Close Protection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Close Protection job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,194 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Executive Protection Specialist - Global Protective Operations

Executive Protection Specialist - Global Protective Operations

Gavin de Becker & Associates

Washington, DC

$120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 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