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Force Protection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SECURITY OFFICER

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $22.25/hr

Possess experience serves as the State's force protection security specialist for anti-terrorism and related physical and operational security programs' policies; Review, analyze, and assess law ...

They conduct force protection, physical security, and policing on bases, aboard ships, at sea, and in expeditionary environments, and may specialize in areas such as military working dogs, harbor ...

They conduct force protection, physical security, and policing on bases, aboard ships, at sea, and in expeditionary environments, and may specialize in areas such as military working dogs, harbor ...

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Force Protection information

See California salary details

$21.1K

$90.6K

$392.7K

How much do force protection jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for force protection in California is $90,582.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,356.00 and $101,839.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

In the field of force protection, high-level security consultants, executive protection specialists, and military contractors with specialized skills and security clearances can potentially earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with experience, leadership roles, or in private security firms serving high-net-worth clients or government agencies. Such roles often require advanced training, certifications, and extensive experience in security management or defense operations.

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

To thrive in a Force Protection role, you need strong situational awareness, physical fitness, and knowledge of security protocols, often supported by military or law enforcement training. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control technologies, and certifications such as Security+ or specialized force protection courses are typically utilized. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively safeguarding personnel, assets, and facilities against security threats.

What does force protection do?

Force protection involves implementing security measures to safeguard personnel, facilities, and assets from threats such as attacks, sabotage, or espionage. It includes activities like threat assessment, access control, surveillance, and emergency response planning, often requiring security clearances and specialized training. The goal is to prevent or mitigate harm in high-risk environments.

What is force protection?

Force protection refers to the measures and strategies implemented to safeguard military personnel, resources, and facilities from threats such as terrorism, espionage, sabotage, and natural disasters. It involves risk assessment, security protocols, surveillance, and emergency preparedness to ensure operational effectiveness and the safety of individuals. Force protection is a critical component of military operations, both at home bases and in deployed environments, and requires coordination among various military and security units.

What degree do I need for FPS jobs?

For Force Protection Specialist (FPS) roles, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, though some positions may prefer or require an associate's or bachelor's degree in criminal justice, homeland security, or related fields. Relevant skills include physical fitness, security training, and sometimes certifications such as CPR or first aid.

What are the typical challenges faced by Force Protection professionals when working in dynamic or high-risk environments?

Force Protection professionals often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing threat levels, adapting to new security protocols, and maintaining constant vigilance under pressure. These roles require strong situational awareness, quick decision-making, and effective communication with team members and other security units. Successful Force Protection specialists regularly participate in drills, coordinate with law enforcement or military personnel, and manage access control measures to ensure the safety of all assets and personnel on site.

What is the difference between Force Protection vs Security Guard?

AspectForce ProtectionSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsSecurity clearance, specialized training, certifications in defense or military protocolsBasic security training, sometimes licensing depending on location
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, government facilities, high-security areasCommercial buildings, retail stores, events
Employer & Industry UsageMilitary, government, defense contractorsPrivate security companies, retail, corporate
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding security roles in defense contextsGeneral security duties and employment options

Force Protection and Security Guard roles both focus on security, but Force Protection involves specialized military or defense-related responsibilities, often requiring advanced credentials and working in high-security environments. Security Guards typically perform routine security tasks in commercial or public settings with basic training. The key difference lies in the scope, environment, and credentials required for each role.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Force protection roles such as security contractors or private security managers can sometimes pay around $4,000 per week, especially with specialized skills, experience, or military background. These jobs often require physical fitness, security clearances, or certifications like CPR or firearms training, and may involve shift work or working in high-risk environments.
Infographic showing various Force Protection job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,582 per year, or $43.5 per hour.
SECURITY OFFICER

SECURITY OFFICER

Department of the Air Force

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$18.75 - $22.25/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Security Officer

The primary purpose of the SECURITY OFFICER, GS-0080-12, is to be the principal advisor to the Wing Commander as the Anti-Terrorism Officer (ATO) and reports to the Mission Support Group Commander as the Defense Force Commander (DFC) with responsibility over the SFS; develops, implements, and manages the wing law enforcement, physical security, wing security, and Anti-Terrorism and Force Protection (AT/FP) programs.