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Force Protection Contractor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

These efforts ensure the United States Space Force (USSF) and its mission partners maintain a ... protection, and anomaly engineering. * Support data and signal collection, processing, storage ...

Government Space Force Protected Tactical SATCOM (PTSG) Program Office . The role focuses on systemofsystems integration , prime contractor Assembly, Integration, and Test (AI&T) oversight , and ...

... protected communications for our nation's warfighters. We seek technical individuals who will ... Demonstrated experience with Air Force contracting and Air Force financial management (standard FAR ...

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Force Protection Contractor information

See California salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do force protection contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for force protection contractor in California is $19.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Force Protection Contractors?

Force Protection Contractors are security professionals hired by governments, military, or private organizations to provide protective services in high-risk or conflict zones. Their main responsibilities include safeguarding personnel, facilities, and assets against threats such as terrorism, espionage, and sabotage. They may conduct risk assessments, develop security protocols, and respond to emergencies. These contractors often have backgrounds in the military, law enforcement, or private security and must adhere to strict operational guidelines and ethical standards. Working as a Force Protection Contractor typically requires specialized training and the ability to operate effectively in challenging environments.

What is the difference between Force Protection Contractor vs Security Specialist?

AspectForce Protection ContractorSecurity Specialist
CredentialsSecurity clearance, military or law enforcement experience, certifications like CPP or PSPSecurity clearance, certifications like CPP or PSP often preferred
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, conflict zones, government facilitiesCorporate offices, private security firms, event venues
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, defense contractors, military contractorsPrivate companies, security firms, corporate sectors

Force Protection Contractors focus on safeguarding military and government assets in high-risk environments, often requiring specialized training and clearances. Security Specialists typically work in corporate or private settings, providing security services in less hazardous environments. Both roles require security credentials but differ mainly in work environment and scope of protection.

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

To thrive as a Force Protection Contractor, you need a background in security operations, risk assessment, and often prior military or law enforcement experience, typically supported by relevant certifications like Security Clearance or SIA license. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control technology, and incident reporting software is crucial for daily operations. Strong situational awareness, effective communication, and decision-making skills set you apart in high-pressure environments. These skills are essential to ensure the safety of personnel and assets, maintain compliance, and respond effectively to potential threats.

What are the typical challenges a Force Protection Contractor may face when working on overseas assignments?

Force Protection Contractors working overseas often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing security environments, navigating cultural differences, and maintaining constant vigilance in high-risk areas. The role requires strong situational awareness, effective communication with multinational teams, and the ability to implement security protocols under pressure. Additionally, contractors must be prepared for extended deployments and irregular work hours, which can impact work-life balance.
What are popular job titles related to Force Protection Contractor jobs in California? For Force Protection Contractor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Force Protection Contractor job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,668 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Acquisition Contracting Specialist

BTAS

El Segundo, CA

$227K - $275K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

POSITION: Acquisition Contracting Specialist
LOCATION: El Segundo, CA/Flexible
REQUIRED SECURITY CLEARANCE: Active TS with SCI eligibility
POSITION TYPE/STANDARD WORK HOURS: Full time, 40 hours
THE OPPORTUNITY:
Upon award, BTAS will be filling potential openings for the Space Systems Command (SSC). SSC plays a critical role in advancing the United States's space capabilities, delivering cutting-edge solutions to protect and enhance national security. SSC/SZBC specializes in highly classified Space Domain Awareness (SDA) systems, Defensive and Offensive Space Control (DSC/OSC) capabilities, and space test range assets to support the Department of Defense’s (DoD) current and future operational needs.
As a leader in space technology, SSC/SZ-BC is responsible for the development, integration, testing, deployment, and sustainment of mission-critical systems spanning the entire acquisition life cycle. These efforts ensure the United States Space Force (USSF) and its mission partners maintain a strategic advantage in space operations. This position will support multiple SSC/SZ-BC programs, as well as other initiatives across the Space Force, Air Force, and allied organizations.
Join us in shaping the future of space operations and contributing to the defense of our nation’s space assets.
WHO WE ARE:
BTAS is a woman-owned small business founded in 1995, located near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Beavercreek, OH. We have earned national and regional awards in the Department of Defense for our proven IT, Engineering, and Program Management capabilities.
We are committed to working with exceptional quality and professionalism to deliver excellence to our customers, while providing our employees with a stimulating and satisfying work environment as we collaborate with teaming partners to achieve common goals.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Assist the government in executing source selections as per FAR 9.505-4, including coordinating meetings, developing documentation like source selection plans and non-disclosure agreements, and drafting proposal evaluations.
  • Advise and assist on test and operations, including support for test documents, planning, events, requirements, and data for Developmental and Operational Testing. Coordinate system-level test integration.
  • Provide analytical and operational engineering support for current and future units, including mission planning, protection, and anomaly engineering.
  • Support data and signal collection, processing, storage, archiving, analysis, and lessons learned for tests, operations, and future concepts. Assist with post-mission analysis and reporting results.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Must be an SME Recognized Industry Leader. Requires MA/MS and extensive relevant experience, as follows:
  • Expert in Federal, DoD, Air Force, and SSC contracting processes and procedures.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead all aspects of any contract action required by the program office, including but not limited to solicitations, change proposals, funding modifications, and award or incentive fee management.
  • Prior PCO or Buyer experience preferred.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
This position does not supervise the work of others.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Must be able to operate a computer and other standard office equipment. Must be able to remain in a stationary position, 80%.

TRAVEL:
Little if any travel is required.
OTHER DUTIES:
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and/or activities may change at any time with or without notice.
COMPENSATION / SALARY RANGE:
BTAS adheres to federal, state, and local regulations. This is a Full-Time, Salary, Exempt position. The following salary range is what we reasonably expect to pay but is contingent and subject to a variety of factors, including but not limited to years of experience, education, certification(s), training, specialized skills, responsibilities, etc.
SALARY RANGE: $227,000–$275,000
BTAS BENEFITS:
A comprehensive benefits program, including paid time off, federal holidays, health coverage, 401K plan with generous company match is offered to all full-time employees.

AAP / EEO STATEMENT:
BTAS is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
BTAS is an E-Verify program participant.