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Commander Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Hana Industries Inc.

Watch Commander

Washington, DC · On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

As Watch Commander you will be responsible for managing, supervising, and ensuring our Protective Security Officer (PSO) team maintains the highest security standards in compliance with our contract ...

HBC MANAGEMENT SERVICES, Inc.

Watch Commander

Washington, DC · On-site

$18 - $21.25/hr

As Watch Commander you will be responsible for managing, supervising, and ensuring our Protective Security Officer (PSO) team maintains the highest security standards in compliance with our contract ...

HBC MANAGEMENT SERVICES INC

Watch Commander

Washington, DC · On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

As Watch Commander you will be responsible for managing, supervising, and ensuring our Protective Security Officer (PSO) team maintains the highest security standards in compliance with our contract ...

Events DC

Command Center Specialist

Washington, DC · On-site

The Command Center Specialist is located within WCSA's Command Center, Support Services Department of the Public Safety Division. The Command Center provides on a 24 hour per day, 7 days a week ...

Events DC

Command Center Specialist

Washington, DC

The Command Center Specialist is located within WCSA's Command Center, Support Services Department of the Public Safety Division. The Command Center provides on a 24 hour per day, 7 days a week ...

ijetconnect

Command Center Analyst

Washington, DC

Summary Description Under the general supervision of the on-duty Watch Commander (WC), the Watch Officer (WO) performs the monitoring, response, and communication duties within the operational ...

ijetconnect

Command Center Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site

Summary Description Under the general supervision of the on-duty Watch Commander (WC), the Watch Officer (WO) performs the monitoring, response, and communication duties within the operational ...

ijetconnect

Command Center Analyst

Washington, DC

Summary Description Under the general supervision of the on-duty Watch Commander (WC), the Watch Officer (WO) performs the monitoring, response, and communication duties within the operational ...

SAIC

Command and Control Analyst

Arlington, VA

$40K - $80K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Command and Control (C2) Analyst supporting Plans, Policies, and Operations (PP&O) South located in Norfolk, VA and training team located in Virginia Beach ...

SAIC

Command and Control Analyst

Alexandria, VA

$40K - $80K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is seeking a Command and Control (C2) Analyst supporting Plans, Policies, and Operations (PP&O) South located in Norfolk, VA and training team located in Virginia Beach ...

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All JobsCommander JobsCommander Jobs in Washington, DC

Commander information

See Washington, DC salary details

$83.8K

$182.9K

$289.4K

How much do commander jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for commander in Washington, DC is $182,888.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,600.00 and $215,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills are needed for commander jobs?

Commander jobs typically require strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills. Candidates often need relevant experience in the military, law enforcement, or emergency services, along with certifications such as leadership training or specialized technical skills. Physical fitness and the ability to work under pressure are also important.

What entry level jobs are with the commanders?

Entry-level positions for commanders often include roles such as assistant commanders, junior officers, or support staff in military, law enforcement, or security organizations. These roles typically require basic training, relevant certifications, and the ability to work in a team environment. Advancement usually involves gaining experience and additional training or education.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Commander, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Commander, you need extensive leadership experience, strategic planning abilities, and a solid background in military operations, usually supported by advanced military education and officer commissioning. Familiarity with command and control systems, military communication tools, and operational planning software is essential. Exceptional decision-making, situational awareness, and the ability to inspire and manage personnel are key soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for effective mission execution, maintaining unit cohesion, and ensuring operational success under pressure.

What is the job of a commander?

A commander is a leadership role responsible for overseeing operations, making strategic decisions, and managing personnel within military, law enforcement, or emergency services organizations. The position often requires strong leadership skills, decision-making ability, and relevant training or certifications. Commanders ensure mission objectives are achieved efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Commander vs Pilot?

AspectCommanderPilot
Required CredentialsMilitary or specialized training, certifications depending on contextCommercial or private pilot license, FAA certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary operations, ships, or aircraft command settingsAircraft operation, airlines, private flights
Industry UsageMilitary, maritime, aviationAviation, transportation

The main difference is that a Commander typically refers to a leadership role overseeing operations in military, maritime, or aviation contexts, requiring specialized training and certifications. A Pilot, on the other hand, is primarily responsible for flying aircraft and holds specific licenses. While both roles are involved in aviation or maritime industries, Commanders focus on leadership and strategic oversight, whereas Pilots focus on aircraft operation.

What are Commanders?

Commanders are high-ranking officers in military, naval, or law enforcement organizations who are responsible for leading and managing units, missions, or operations. They oversee personnel, develop strategies, make critical decisions, and ensure the effective execution of orders and objectives. Commanders are expected to demonstrate strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, often working under significant pressure. Their specific duties can vary depending on the branch of service and the size of the unit they command.

What are some common challenges faced by a Commander in coordinating large teams or units?

Commanders often manage diverse teams with varying skill levels, backgrounds, and responsibilities. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across all levels, especially in high-pressure or rapidly changing situations. Additionally, balancing strategic decision-making with the welfare and morale of personnel requires strong leadership and adaptability. Commanders must also stay updated on operational protocols while fostering teamwork and collaboration among units to achieve mission objectives effectively.

What's the typical salary for commanders?

The salary for a commander varies depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. In the military, for example, commanders can earn from around $50,000 to over $150,000 annually, while civilian leadership roles with the title may have different pay scales. Factors such as certifications, leadership responsibilities, and the organization influence compensation levels.
Commander jobs near you
Infographic showing various Commander job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $182,888 per year, or $87.9 per hour.

Watch Commander

Hana Industries Inc.

Washington, DC • On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Description


Hana Industries, Inc. is an emerging security company focused on providing services to the U.S. Government. We are currently seeking experienced Watch Commanders for the Department of Homeland Security at the IRS Headquarters in Washington DC.

As Watch Commander you will be responsible for managing, supervising, and ensuring our Protective Security Officer (PSO) team maintains the highest security standards in compliance with our contract, customer expectations, and our Company policies and procedures.
Duties

  • Fostering the development of a positive and high-performance team of PSOs
  • Ensuring compliance to all Company personnel and safety policies and ensures staff perform duties in a safe manner
  • Managing the staffing of posts at the site in order to ensure complete coverage for vacations, illness, and call-offs
  • Conducting Guard Mount and pass down information and ensuring guard force is in compliance to federal, state, and local training and certification requirements
  • Ensuring that all officers receive and understand new, changed, or special instructions 
  • Ensuring guard force follows the Company's professional uniform and grooming standards
  • Ensuring accountability for the proper use and maintenance of all equipment used at all posts by assigned PSOs
  • Ensuring clarity, completeness, accuracy, and legibility of all written reports, timesheets, and log entries 
  • Conducting investigations into security matters and report findings to chain-of-command
  • Ensuring accuracy of start and end times, meal and break periods are documented on daily timekeeping systems
  • Ensuring the safety of security force by complying with our company safety policies and procedures
  • Promoting our Company's values of integrity, fairness, teamwork, diversity, high ethical standards, and genuine care for your co-workers and our customer.

Requirements

  • Minimum five (5) years demonstrated specialized civilian or military and commercial law enforcement and security force experience
  • Minimum of 2 years of successful experience in field supervision 
  • Bachelor's degree preferred
  • Active DHS Suitability. 



                                                              HIND is an Equal Opportunity Employer - M/F/D/V

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