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Executive Protection Officer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Executive Protection Specialist

Columbus, OH · On-site

$42.13 - $52.67/hr

Scope of Services Close protection for executives during business, personal, and travel activities ... C. 926C) Armed Security Officer (ASO) certification State-issued security or armed guard license ...

$41.84 - $65.90/hr

The Executive Protection Agent is armed and responsible for ensuring the safety and security of ... Obtain and maintain required licensing for private security officers within 3 months. * Obtain and ...

$120 - $160/hr

... Protection Officer (DPO) Responsibilities*** Serve as the appointed DPO under GDPR, including ... Provide regular reporting to the Executive Committee and Board-level audit or compliance committees.

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Showing results 1-20

Executive Protection Officer information

See Ohio salary details

$28.5K

$78.1K

$146.9K

How much do executive protection officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive protection officer in Ohio is $78,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,800.00 and $95,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is an executive protection officer a good career?

An executive protection officer is a security professional responsible for safeguarding high-profile individuals, often requiring physical fitness, situational awareness, and security certifications. The role can be rewarding for those interested in security, risk management, and protective services, but it also involves irregular hours and potential risks. Career advancement depends on experience, training, and industry demand.

What is the difference between Executive Protection Officer vs Security Guard?

AspectExecutive Protection OfficerSecurity Guard
CredentialsSecurity certifications, firearms training, first aidBasic security training, sometimes licensed
Work EnvironmentHigh-profile clients, mobile protection, event securityBuilding patrols, static posts, access control
Employer & IndustryPrivate security firms, corporate clients, celebritiesCommercial buildings, retail stores, residential complexes

Executive Protection Officers focus on safeguarding high-profile individuals through mobile and close protection, requiring specialized training and certifications. Security Guards typically provide static security services in various settings. While both roles ensure safety, Executive Protection Officers handle more complex, mobile, and personalized security needs.

What is an executive protection officer?

An Executive Protection Officer is a security professional responsible for safeguarding high-profile individuals, such as corporate executives, celebrities, or political figures, from potential threats like harassment, kidnapping, or physical harm. Their duties include conducting risk assessments, planning secure travel routes, and managing emergency situations to ensure the safety of their clients. These officers often work discreetly, blending into their surroundings while remaining vigilant and prepared to respond to any security risks. They may also coordinate with law enforcement and use advanced security technology as part of their protective measures.

What are some common challenges executive protection officers face when working with high-profile clients?

Executive Protection Officers often encounter challenges such as maintaining client privacy while ensuring their safety, adapting quickly to changing environments, and handling unpredictable situations with discretion. They must balance being highly visible for deterrence with blending in to avoid drawing attention to their clients. Additionally, working long or irregular hours—including travel and last-minute schedule changes—can be demanding, requiring strong adaptability and stamina.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an executive protection officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Executive Protection Officer, you need a background in security or law enforcement, advanced situational awareness, and often specialized training such as a close protection certification. Familiarity with surveillance technology, defensive driving, and communication systems is commonly required. Exceptional judgment, discretion, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure the safety and privacy of clients in high-risk or sensitive environments.
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Executive Protection Officer jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Executive Protection Officer job openings:
Infographic showing various Executive Protection Officer job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,096 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

Executive Protection Specialist

Aep

Columbus, OH • On-site

$42.13 - $52.67/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Posting End Date

08-06-2026

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date

Job Summary

AEP seeks highly experienced Executive Protection Agents/Specialists to provide professional, discreet protective services for corporate executives and their families. This role is to support short-term, long-term, and event-based assignments in domestic and international environments.
Agents/Specialists must be capable of operating independently or as part of a layered protective team, while integrating with executive leadership, corporate security teams, and local authorities.

Job Description

What you'll do:

Scope of Services
Close protection for executives during business, personal, and travel activities
Secure ground transportation including advanced route planning and defensive driving
Protective advances for residences, offices, hotels, venues, and special events
Coordination with physical security, intelligence personnel, GSOCs, and local law enforcement
Residential and workplace security support
Protective intelligence gathering and threat awareness
Incident response, emergency management, and medical response until relieved
Detailed reporting including post-assignment reports and incident documentation

Core Responsibilities
Maintain the safety, privacy, and dignity of assigned executives always
Conduct thorough advances and risk assessments prior to movements or events
Execute protective operations in a calm, professional, and low-profile manner
Maintain constant situational awareness and proactive threat mitigation
Communicate clearly with AEP Security leadership to assess and evaluate broad security threats and risks
Adhere to all applicable laws, use-of-force standards, and AEP Security SOPs
Maintain confidentiality of all executives, company, and operational information
Partner with internal stakeholders to develop and implement security training and awareness programs

What we're looking for:


Former law enforcement, military and/or experience in dignitary protection programs with 5 or more years of experience.
Demonstrated experience conducting high-threat close protection operations
Extensive background in protective advances and threat mitigation
Strong interpersonal skills and executive-level demeanor
Excellent judgment and decision-making under stress
Ability to work irregular hours including nights, weekends, and extended assignments
Valid driver's license with clean driving record, and a valid passport

Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree
Leadership experience within tactical or protective units
Advanced executive protection or protective intelligence training
Emergency medical training (EMT, TCCC, or equivalent)
International protective experience

Licensing & Certifications:
If applicable, Retired Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) certification with current qualification and currency under LEOSA (18 U.S.C. 926C)
Armed Security Officer (ASO) certification
State-issued security or armed guard license where required
Firearms permit and carry authorization as applicable
First Aid, CPR, and AED certification

Equipment & Appearance:
Professional business or business-casual attire appropriate to assignment
Ability to deploy with required personal protective equipment and duty gear
Personal firearms and equipment must meet AEP Security standards if armed Confidentiality

All personnel must agree to strict confidentiality and non-disclosure requirements. Discretion is mandatory.

American Electric Power (On-Site)

#LI-Onsite

#AEPCareers

At AEP, we're more than just an energy company - we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-007

Compensation Range:

$42.13 - $52.67

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: L - Light Work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or 10 to 12 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 5-6 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for sedentary work. Even though the weight lifted may be only a negligible amount, a job should be rated Light Work: (1) When it requires walking or standing to a significant degree; or (2) when it requires sitting most of the time, but entails pushing and/or pulling of arm or leg c ontrols; and/or (3) when the job requires working at a production rate pace entailing the constant pushing and/or pulling of materials even though the weight of those materials is negligible. NOTE: The constant stress and strain of maintaining a production rate pace, especially in an industrial setting, can be and is physically demanding of a worker even though the amount of force exerted is negligible

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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.