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Guard Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Internal Site Guard

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Performs internal guard services and must possess the ability to react to force protection threats. Security personnel shall possess the following qualifications and be physically able to perform all ...

Unarmed Guard

Ellicott City, MD ยท On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

Unarmed Security Guard The Unarmed Security Guard (UG) is a part of TCS Security, which protects our client's premises, assets, personnel, and maintains a high visibility presence, and prevents ...

Security Guard

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$22 - $24.20/hr

The Security Guard is stationed primarily around or in the Security Booth at the front entrance of the school and is responsible for protecting, safeguarding and securing the campus. Responsibilities ...

Unarmed Guard

Ellicott City, MD ยท On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

The Unarmed Security Guard (UG) is a part of TCS Security, which protects our client's premises, assets, personnel, and maintains a high visibility presence, and prevents illegal or inappropriate ...

Security Guard

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$22 - $24.20/hr

The Security Guard is stationed primarily around or in the Security Booth at the front entrance of the school and is responsible for protecting, safeguarding and securing the campus. Responsibilities ...

Unarmed Guard

Ellicott City, MD ยท On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

The Unarmed Security Guard (UG) is a part of TCS Security, which protects our client's premises, assets, personnel, and maintains a high visibility presence, and prevents illegal or inappropriate ...

Unarmed Guard

Lanham, MD ยท On-site

$19/hr

The Unarmed Security Guard (UG) is a part of TCS Security, which protects our client's premises, assets, personnel, and maintains a high visibility presence, and prevents illegal or inappropriate ...

Unarmed Guard

Ellicott City, MD ยท On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

The Unarmed Security Guard (UG) is a part of TCS Security, which protects our client's premises, assets, personnel, and maintains a high visibility presence, and prevents illegal or inappropriate ...

Security Guard We are seeking a professional Security Guard to join our team. In this role, your primary responsibility will be to create a safe and secure environment. You will protect our premises ...

Armed Security Guard

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$39.60/hr

Shields Point LLC is seeking Full-Time Armed Security Guards for the U.S. Department of Transportation contract located at the U.S. DOT HQ in Washington, DC Observe and report activities and ...

Armed Security Guard

Washington, DC

$19.75 - $25/hr

Shields Point LLC is seeking Part-Time Armed Security Guards for the U.S. Department of Transportation contract located at the U.S. DOT HQ in Washington, DC Observe and report activities and ...

Security Guard We are seeking a professional Security Guard to join our team. In this role, your primary responsibility will be to create a safe and secure environment. You will protect our premises ...

Security Guard

Rockville, MD ยท On-site

$23/hr

The Security Guard maintains a controlled facility/environment, under the supervision of the Security Manager. Inspecting and patrolling premises regularly. Responding to emergencies and ensuring ...

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Guard information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$19

$25

How much do guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for guard in Washington, DC is $19.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a guard?

Guards are security professionals responsible for protecting people, property, and assets from theft, vandalism, and other potential threats. Their duties often include patrolling premises, monitoring surveillance equipment, checking identification, and responding to alarms or emergencies. Guards may work in a variety of settings, such as office buildings, malls, banks, and event venues. To be effective, they must remain vigilant, communicate clearly, and follow established safety protocols. Some positions may require special training or licensing depending on local regulations.

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

To thrive as a Guard, you need strong observational skills, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring additional security certifications. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control technologies, and incident reporting software is typically necessary. Excellent communication, integrity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this position. These abilities ensure the safety and security of people and property by enabling effective monitoring, quick response, and accurate reporting.

What are some common challenges faced by guards during their shifts, and how can they effectively handle them?

Guards often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected security incidents, maintaining vigilance during long or overnight shifts, and communicating effectively with both the public and emergency responders. To handle these situations, guards are trained to stay alert, follow established protocols, and use technology like surveillance systems to monitor their environment. Building strong observation and communication skills, as well as staying physically and mentally prepared, are key to ensuring both personal safety and effective incident response.

What is the difference between Guard vs Security Officer?

AspectGuardSecurity Officer
CredentialsBasic security training, sometimes licensedSimilar credentials, often with additional certifications
Work EnvironmentVaries from retail to industrial sitesSimilar environments, often in security firms or private properties
Employer & IndustryPrivate security companies, retail, eventsPrivate security firms, corporate, residential
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched interchangeably with Security OfficerCommonly compared to Guard for clarity

Both Guards and Security Officers perform security duties, but the term 'Security Officer' is often used in formal settings or specific industries. The roles overlap significantly in credentials and work environments, with minor differences in job titles depending on employer preferences.

Are guard jobs hard?

Guard jobs can be physically and mentally demanding, requiring vigilance, good observation skills, and the ability to handle stressful situations. The difficulty varies depending on the work environment, shift hours, and specific responsibilities, but they often involve standing for long periods and maintaining alertness. Proper training and certifications can help prepare for the job's challenges.

What are the duties of a guard?

A guard's duties include monitoring and patrolling assigned areas to prevent theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access, as well as checking identification and enforcing security policies. They may also operate surveillance equipment, write reports, and respond to emergencies, often requiring good observation skills and sometimes security certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Guard jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Guard jobs in Washington, DC are:

What job categories do people searching Guard jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Guard jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Guard job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 41% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,573 per year, or $19 per hour.

Armed Security Guard

Chesapeake Protective Services

Catonsville, MD โ€ข On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Armed Guard Positions Available

Chesapeake Protective Services is currently accepting applications for armed guards within the surrounding Baltimore area looking for full and part-time employment, and on-call (flex) positions.

All candidates must have:

  • Active Maryland Guard Card.
  • Maryland Wear & Carry permit.
  • Service weapon registered with Maryland.
  • Duty belt & level 2 holster or higher.
  • Maryland driver's license for more than two years, and a clean driving record for the last seven years.
  • Smartphone with a good data plan for our work app.
  • Ability to work evenings, overnights, and weekends.

Please do not come to our office if you do not have an active Maryland Guard Card. Save yourself a trip and call us to inquire about how to obtain or renew your Guard Card. Call our office Monday - Friday, 10am-4pm to schedule an interview and fill out our in-house paper application.

410-788-6563 Ext 1

All applicants must have a Maryland driver's license with a clean driving record to be approved by our auto insurance provider, and an active Maryland Guard Card in order to apply. If you do not have an active Guard Card, please call our offices at 410-788-6563 Ext 1, before setting an interview. Our main office is located at 1012 Ingleside Ave, 21228.