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Executive Protection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mattel

Manager Executive Protection

El Segundo, CA · On-site

This role is responsible for leading global executive protection and protective intelligence efforts supporting senior leadership, while proactively identifying, assessing, and mitigating security ...

Mattel

Manager Executive Protection

El Segundo, CA · On-site

This role is responsible for leading global executive protection and protective intelligence efforts supporting senior leadership, while proactively identifying, assessing, and mitigating security ...

Mattel

Manager Executive Protection

El Segundo, CA

This role is responsible for leading global executive protection and protective intelligence efforts supporting senior leadership, while proactively identifying, assessing, and mitigating security ...

Mattel

Manager Executive Protection

El Segundo, CA

This role is responsible for leading global executive protection and protective intelligence efforts supporting senior leadership, while proactively identifying, assessing, and mitigating security ...

Surefox

Executive Protection Agent

Los Angeles, CA

Executive Protection Agent Surefox North America Inc is a veteran owned company that strives to create a diverse and unique culture of trained and talented individuals. We are currently seeking an ...

anduril

Executive Protection Manager

Costa Mesa, CA

$146K - $194K/yr

Executive Protection Manager Costa Mesa, California, United States Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced ...

Confidential

Executive Protection

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$73K - $145K/yr

Executive Protection Los Angeles, CA · Low profile personal protective detail is seeking active or retired federal, state or local law enforcement personnel with a CCW (HR 218 qualified if retired ...

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All JobsProtection JobsExecutive Protection JobsExecutive Protection Jobs in California

Executive Protection information

See California salary details

$26.2K

$92.3K

$181.6K

How much do executive protection jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive protection in California is $92,327.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $118,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Executive protection roles, such as high-level security consultants or bodyguards for wealthy clients, can reach or exceed $500,000 annually with experience, specialized skills, and sometimes additional bonuses or benefits. Other high-paying jobs in the US include top executives, surgeons, and certain investment professionals, but these are not directly related to executive protection. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and the complexity of the role.

What is the difference between Executive Protection vs Security Guard?

AspectExecutive ProtectionSecurity Guard
CredentialsSecurity licenses, specialized training, sometimes firearms certificationSecurity officer license, basic training
Work EnvironmentHigh-profile clients, private events, travelBuildings, malls, public spaces
Employer & IndustryPrivate security firms, corporations, high-net-worth individualsCommercial properties, retail stores, residential complexes

Executive Protection focuses on safeguarding high-profile individuals through specialized training, often involving travel and close personal security. Security Guards typically monitor premises and prevent unauthorized access. While both roles involve security, Executive Protection requires advanced skills and works in more dynamic, high-stakes environments.

How do you get into executive protection?

To enter executive protection, individuals typically need a background in security, law enforcement, or military service, along with relevant training such as first aid, defensive tactics, and threat assessment. Obtaining certifications like the Close Protection Operative Course or Executive Protection Certification can improve job prospects. Experience in security operations and strong situational awareness are also important for success in this field.

What is executive protection?

Executive protection is a specialized security service focused on safeguarding high-profile individuals, such as corporate executives, celebrities, or political figures, from potential threats like physical harm, kidnapping, or harassment. This service often includes risk assessments, travel security, secure transportation, and advance planning to ensure a client's safety at all times. Executive protection professionals are trained in security protocols, defensive driving, emergency response, and sometimes medical aid, allowing them to respond effectively to a variety of situations. The goal is to allow clients to carry out their daily activities with minimal disruption while maintaining the highest level of safety.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Executive protection, or close protection, can pay $10,000 or more per month for experienced professionals, especially those working with high-profile clients or in high-risk environments. Success in this field often depends on specialized training, certifications, and experience rather than formal education, with some roles requiring security licenses and physical fitness.

Is executive protection in demand?

Executive protection is a growing field driven by increased security concerns for high-profile individuals and corporate executives. The demand for trained professionals with skills in threat assessment, security protocols, and certifications such as CPP or PSP remains strong across various industries. Job opportunities are often available in security firms, corporate security departments, and government agencies.

What Is Executive Protection?

Executive protection involves providing security for corporate executives, VIPs, celebrities, and other people who need safeguarding against public threats. Increasingly, these threats are both physical and digital, and many executives require increased protection from hackers who try to steal personal information for blackmail or to expose executives and celebrities in the media. Your duties as an executive protection specialist can include performing risk assessment, testing security systems, determining which executive or persons of interest are at higher risk, and developing methods to keep them safe.

What are some common challenges faced by Executive Protection professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Executive Protection professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing schedules, managing high-stress environments, and maintaining vigilance during extended periods. They must remain discreet while ensuring the safety of their principal, which requires excellent communication and quick decision-making. Building strong coordination with local law enforcement and other security team members is essential to address these challenges effectively and ensure seamless operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Executive Protection professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Executive Protection professional, you need expertise in risk assessment, security protocols, defensive tactics, and often a background in law enforcement or military service. Familiarity with surveillance technology, secure communications systems, and certifications such as Certified Protection Professional (CPP) are commonly required. Discretion, situational awareness, quick decision-making, and strong interpersonal skills are essential soft skills for building trust and responding effectively to threats. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring the safety, privacy, and confidence of high-profile clients in unpredictable environments.
More about Executive Protection jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Protection jobs in California? The most popular types of Protection jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Executive Protection jobs in California? For Executive Protection jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Executive Protection jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Executive Protection jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Executive Protection jobs? Cities in California with the most Executive Protection job openings:
Executive Protection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Executive Protection job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 12% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,327 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Executive Protection Agent

Executive Support & Logistics, Inc.

San Jose, CA

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Who We Are

We are Executive Support & Logistics, your trusted source for security solutions with over 30+ years of experience. We have become one of the leading security services companies by combining our strong law enforcement skills with a firm focus on our clients’ safety, needs, and budgets.

We provide services that can assist nearly every business, organization, or individual. We have over 3 decades of experience in developing unique programs for an array of different businesses. Industry-specific training, reporting technology, and covert data collection are a few of the reasons clients from coast to coast have partnered with us.

What We Are Looking For

Executive Support & Logistics is seeking highly experienced Executive Protection / Residential Security Agents to provide close protection and residential security services for principals, family members, and designated properties. (Flex / on call capacity) The ideal candidate is discreet, proactive, physically capable, and experienced in both low- and high-profile environments, with strong judgment and situational awareness.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide close protection for principals during daily activities, travel, and special events

  • Conduct residential security operations, including static and mobile post assignments

  • Perform advance work, route planning, and site surveys

  • Monitor and assess threats, vulnerabilities, and suspicious activity

  • Maintain a secure environment through access control, patrols, and surveillance

  • Respond calmly and effectively to emergencies, medical incidents, and security threats

  • Coordinate with local law enforcement, emergency services, and internal teams as needed

  • Operate security vehicles safely and professionally (defensive / evasive driving as required)

  • Maintain detailed logs, incident reports, and daily activity reports

  • Uphold strict confidentiality and professionalism at all times

Required Qualifications

  • 5-10 years in Executive Protection and/or Residential Security

  • Prior military, law enforcement, or government protective services experience preferred

  • Proven experience working with high-net-worth individuals or high-profile clients

  • Strong knowledge of protective intelligence, threat assessment, and risk mitigation

  • Excellent situational awareness, decision-making, and communication skills

  • Physically fit and capable of extended standing, walking, and long shifts

  • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record

  • CCW preferred

  • Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, and travel

Certifications & Training 

  • Executive Protection / PSD certification from a recognized provider

  • CPR / First Aid / AED (current)

  • Defensive and/or evasive driving certification

  • Firearms permit and advanced firearms training (if applicable to jurisdiction)

  • Medical training (TCCC, TECC, EMT, or equivalent a plus) great to have

Key Attributes

  • Professional appearance and demeanor

  • Discreet, loyal, and trustworthy

  • Calm under pressure with strong emotional control

  • Team-oriented with the ability to work independently

  • High attention to detail and strong observational skills

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive compensation based on experience

  • Opportunities for advancement and specialized training