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Defensive Tactics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Security Officer I

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18.24 - $26.90/hr

You will receive some of the best training in the industry in firearms, defensive tactics, de-escalation strategies, application of restraints, and tactics, including team response to Active Shooter ...

Deputy Probation Officer I

Globe, AZ · On-site

$55K - $69K/yr

Performs and demonstrates through proficiency testing, competency in and an understanding of physical and verbal defensive tactics techniques, including the following, or their comparable ...

Deputy Probation Officer I

Globe, AZ · On-site

$55K - $69K/yr

Performs and demonstrates through proficiency testing, competency in and an understanding of physical and verbal defensive tactics techniques, including the following, or their comparable ...

Security Officer FT

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

When necessary, engage in self-defense, and defensive tactics (including take downs, handcuffing, restraining, or subduing an assailant). * Utilize de-escalation and conflict resolution techniques to ...

Showing results 41-60

Defensive Tactics information

See salary details

$21K

$56.5K

$92.5K

How much do defensive tactics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for defensive tactics in the United States is $56,492.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $65,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are defensive tactics?

Defensive tactics refer to a set of skills, techniques, and strategies used primarily by law enforcement, security personnel, and military professionals to protect themselves and others from harm. These tactics focus on minimizing injury, controlling dangerous situations, and safely restraining or deterring aggressive individuals. Training in defensive tactics often includes hand-to-hand combat, use of non-lethal weapons, escape maneuvers, and situational awareness. The goal is to resolve confrontations with the least amount of force necessary, while ensuring the safety of all parties involved.

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

To thrive as a Defensive Tactics Instructor, you need expertise in self-defense techniques, physical fitness, and a relevant background in law enforcement, security, or martial arts, often supported by instructor certifications. Familiarity with training equipment, scenario-based simulation tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and leadership skills help instructors effectively teach diverse learners and maintain a safe training environment. These skills are essential to ensure trainees gain practical, effective skills while minimizing injury and promoting confidence in defensive situations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals teaching defensive tactics, and how can they be overcome?

Instructors in Defensive Tactics often face the challenge of addressing a wide range of skill levels and physical abilities among trainees. Balancing the need for realistic, effective training while ensuring safety is paramount, and adapting instruction methods to suit individual learning styles is essential. To overcome these challenges, instructors frequently rely on clear communication, ongoing assessment, and continuous professional development to stay updated on best practices and legal standards. Collaboration with colleagues and law enforcement agencies also helps improve training quality and relevance.

What is the difference between Defensive Tactics vs Security Guard?

AspectDefensive TacticsSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsMartial arts certifications, self-defense trainingSecurity license, background check
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement, correctional facilities, security training centersCommercial, residential, event venues
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, private security firmsPrivate companies, malls, event organizers

Defensive Tactics focus on self-defense skills and physical techniques to protect oneself or others, often used in law enforcement or security training. Security Guards primarily monitor and protect property and people, utilizing awareness and prevention strategies. While both roles involve safety and security, Defensive Tactics emphasize physical defense skills, whereas Security Guards focus on surveillance and access control.

More about Defensive Tactics jobs

What states have the most Defensive Tactics jobs?

States with the most job openings for Defensive Tactics jobs include:

Infographic showing various Defensive Tactics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,492 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Sex Offender Unit Surveillance Officer (Adult Probation) - Sierra Vista

Cochise County

Bisbee, AZ

$35K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

SEX OFFENDER UNIT SURVEILLANCE OFFICER (ADULT PROBATION) - SIERRA VISTA CLASSIFIED: Position is subject to the provisions of the Merit System Rules pursuant to Arizona Law. OPENS: Friday, July 31, 2026 CLOSES: Position is open until filled with applications reviewed upon receipt and may close at anytime. RATE OF PAY: $21.30 hourly plus a comprehensive benefits package to include membership in the Arizona Correctional Officers Retirement Plan

PLEASE NOTE: This position is a safety-sensitive position that requires a comprehensive background check, pre-employment drug screening, fingerprinting, and post employment, random drug screening. NATURE OF WORK: Under general supervision, performs certified surveillance officer work of moderate difficulty in the security, supervision, care, and welfare of probationers; performs related duties as assigned. Essential Functions As defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following tasks, knowledge, skills, and other characteristics.

This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by incumbents of this class. TYPICAL DUTIES: (Illustrative Only) Provides surveillance and supportive casework services to probationers at the direction of the Superior Court under the provisions of evidence-based practices and consistent with the Arizona Code of Judicial Administration; monitors the assigned probationers; meets with probationers in their homes or at their places of work; performs searches and makes arrests; performs closely structured surveillance and observation concerning compliance with conditions of probation, including directing and counseling the probationer and conducting field contacts (home, work, treatment facilities, community restitution or jail) as a member of a team; obtains, assembles, secures, keeps, and files a complete identification record concerning the person on probation, including arrest reports, contact notes regarding compliance with terms of probation, and case plan to prepare written reports for the probation officer; builds relationships to encourage compliance with the case plan including conditions of probation through frequent telephone contacts, work site contacts, day and evening home contacts; directs and/or refers probationers to community resources, treatments or other interventions based on assessments, behaviors and conditions of probation; participates in case review conferences to determine if change in level of supervision is warranted; performs searches, breathalyzers/urinalysis collection, and makes a documented effort to locate absconders; serves warrants, makes arrests, and brings persons before the court who are on probation including defaulting probationers facing revocation (surveillance officers have the authority of peace officers in the performance of his or her duties); appears and testifies in court; monitors payment of restitution and probation fees and ensures victims' notification rights are provided according to statutory requirements. Minimum Qualifications Must be 21 years of age at the time of hire; must be a United States citizen; must possess a high school diploma or equivalent; must successfully complete 40-hour Defensive Tactics Training Academy as soon as practical, but no later than 120 days from the date of employment [see ACJA 6-107(G)]; must demonstrate, by proficiency testing, competency and understanding of the physical and verbal techniques and tactics presented at the Defensive Tactics Training Academy; must successfully complete eight (8) hours of defensive tactics refresher training on an annual basis; must maintain certificate of successful completion of defensive tactics training; must successfully complete the Intensive Probation Institute, within the first twelve (12) months of employment [see ACJA 1-302(K)(4)]; must submit to a medical examination required by Corrections Officer Retirement Plan.

Applicants must successfully complete a psychometric test, polygraph, physical examination and criminal background check, including no felony convictions; successful completion of mandatory pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing are required; at time of hire must possess and maintain a valid Arizona driver's license and the ability to be covered by county insurance. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Preference may be given to individuals with an Associate degree in Behavioral Sciences or a related field from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning recognized by the US Department of Education. Preference may be given to individuals with one year of experience in a related field such as, but not limited to, criminal justice, social work, and/or counseling.

Preference may be given to individuals who are bilingual in Spanish. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Knowledge of: the basic principles of psychology and other social science; techniques and methods of interviewing and routine investigative techniques; the effects and symptoms of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and crisis intervention methods and techniques; the criminal justice system and community resources; Diversion, Standard and Juvenile, and/or Adult Intensive Probation and community supervision; social and community corrections casework; principles of general human behavior and evidence-based practices in community corrections Skill in: interviewing, counseling, observing, and collecting data from clients and other sources pertaining to client activities and behavior; self-control, patience, initiative, courtesy, tact, and diplomacy in order to maintain effective relationships with a diverse population; motivating and interpersonal relationships; time management and organization with the ability to apply principles and methods of correctional casework; critical analysis of individuals and situations in order to problem solve and make sound decisions. Ability to: establish and maintain a professional role; adhere to the Arizona Code of Conduct for Judicial Employees; exercise sound judgment in personal and professional matters; operate a variety of equipment necessary to perform job duties such as motor vehicles, computers, telephones, radios, handcuffs, body armor, and other equipment depending on case assignments; read, write, and speak English; communicate effectively verbally and in writing; be flexible and maintain a calm demeanor in a fast-paced, often stressful environment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is primarily performed under general supervision in a variety of climatic conditions; exposure to potentially hazardous, disabling, and life-threatening situations. Requires working early mornings, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays as assigned. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Essential functions of this position require lifting, manual dexterity, fine and large motor skills, ability to communicate; lifting, kneeling, squatting, climbing, crawling, stooping, turning/twisting, balancing, reaching, and handling with varying frequencies.

Heavy work: Occasional lifting and carrying objects up to 75 pounds, Frequent lifting and carrying, pushing, or pulling objects weighing up to 50 pounds; and/or continuous lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling 10-20 pounds. Mental Application: Utilizes memory for details, verbal instructions, emotional stability, critical thinking, adaptability and creative problem-solving skills. Reasonable accommodations will be made for those that are able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

Cochise County is an Equal Opportunity Employer