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Close Protection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Constellis

Personal Protection Officer

Reston, VA · On-site

$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 ...

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How much do close protection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Close protection officers, also known as bodyguards, can earn $4,000 or more per week, especially with experience, high-profile clients, or specialized skills. These roles often require security training, certifications, and the ability to work irregular hours in high-pressure environments.

How do I become a close protection officer?

To become a close protection officer, individuals typically need to complete specialized training in security procedures, threat assessment, and first aid, often through certified courses. Many employers also require a background check, relevant licenses, and physical fitness, with some jurisdictions requiring law enforcement or military experience.

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 managing. Salaries can be higher for those with specialized skills, certifications, or working in high-risk environments. Many also receive additional benefits such as overtime pay and per diem allowances.

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.

Is close protection a good job?

Close protection involves safeguarding individuals, often requiring physical fitness, situational awareness, and security training. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in security, but it often involves irregular hours, high stress, and potential risks. Job satisfaction depends on personal interests and the ability to handle demanding 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.
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Close Protection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Close Protection job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% 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

Executive Protection Specialist

Gavin de Becker & Associates

Washington, DC • On-site

$120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

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