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Platoon Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FT Staff: Security Officer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Reporting to the Platoon Leader (Police Sergeant), Security Officers maintain security and safety of people and property in assigned area on the University's campus by patrolling areas on foot ...

FT Staff: Security Officer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Reporting to the Platoon Leader (Police Sergeant), Security Officers maintain security and safety of people and property in assigned area on the University's campus by patrolling areas on foot ...

PT Security Officer Pool

Raleigh, NC

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Reporting to the Platoon Leader (Police Sergeant), Security Officers maintain security and safety of people and property in assigned area on the University's campus by patrolling areas on foot ...

PT Security Officer Pool

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Reporting to the Platoon Leader (Police Sergeant), Security Officers maintain security and safety of people and property in assigned area on the University's campus by patrolling areas on foot ...

FT Staff: Security Officer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Security Officer Reporting to the Platoon Leader (Police Sergeant), Security Officers maintain security and safety of people and property in assigned area on the University's campus by patrolling ...

PT Security Officer Pool

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Reporting to the Platoon Leader (Police Sergeant), Security Officers maintain security and safety of people and property in assigned area on the University's campus by patrolling areas on foot ...

FT Staff: Security Officer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Reporting to the Platoon Leader (Police Sergeant), Security Officers maintain security and safety of people and property in assigned area on the University's campus by patrolling areas on foot ...

FT Staff: Security Officer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Reporting to the Platoon Leader (Police Sergeant), Security Officers maintain security and safety of people and property in assigned area on the University's campus by patrolling areas on foot ...

Guard Shift Leader

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$14 - $17.50/hr

The Shift Leader operates under the direction and control of the Guard Site Manager. Shift Leaders ... platoon level or equivalent, verified by military or police transcripts and evaluations. * Must ...

Recently separated from the US Military with 4+ years of military service in a leadership capacity (Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, Company Commander, etc.), or applicants with limited prior sales ...

Recently separated from the US Military with 4+ years of military service in a leadership capacity (Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, Company Commander, etc.), or applicants with limited prior sales ...

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Platoon Leader information

See salary details

$10

$25

$72

How much do platoon leader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for platoon leader in the United States is $25.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do platoon leaders get paid?

Platoon leaders in the military typically earn a salary based on their rank and years of service, with pay ranging from approximately $40,000 to $80,000 annually. Additional allowances for housing, food, and duty location can increase total compensation. Civilian equivalents, such as team leaders or supervisors, often have similar salary ranges depending on industry and experience.

What is the difference between Platoon Leader vs Squad Leader?

AspectPlatoon LeaderSquad Leader
Required credentialsMilitary officer training, leadership coursesBasic military training, leadership skills
Work environmentMilitary units, field operations, command settingsMilitary units, on-the-ground team leadership
Employer and industry usageArmy, Marine Corps, military organizationsArmy, Marine Corps, military organizations

The main difference between a Platoon Leader and a Squad Leader lies in their scope of responsibility. A Platoon Leader commands a larger unit, typically 20-50 soldiers, and is responsible for strategic planning and overall mission execution. A Squad Leader manages a smaller team, usually 8-12 soldiers, focusing on day-to-day operations and direct supervision. Both roles require leadership skills and military training, but the Platoon Leader holds a higher command level with broader responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Platoon Leader, you need strong leadership abilities, tactical decision-making skills, and typically a commission as an officer, often through ROTC, OCS, or a military academy. Familiarity with military communications systems, GPS navigation, and standard-issue weapons is crucial, along with completion of Basic Officer Leader Course (BOLC). Exceptional interpersonal skills, resilience, and clear communication help motivate and direct soldiers effectively under stress. These competencies ensure mission success, unit cohesion, and the safety of personnel in challenging operational environments.

What are some common challenges a platoon leader faces when managing a diverse team, and how can these be addressed?

As a Platoon Leader, one of the most common challenges is effectively leading a team with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and skill sets. Balancing the needs and strengths of each team member while maintaining unit cohesion and morale can be demanding. Successful Platoon Leaders address these challenges through clear communication, fostering mutual respect, and leveraging individual strengths to accomplish the mission. Regular training, team-building exercises, and seeking mentorship from experienced leaders can further help in managing and motivating a diverse platoon.

What is a platoon leader?

Platoon Leaders are junior commissioned officers, typically lieutenants, responsible for leading a platoon—usually a unit of 16 to 44 soldiers—in the armed forces. They are accountable for the training, welfare, and discipline of their troops, as well as executing missions assigned by higher command. Platoon Leaders work closely with their platoon sergeant to ensure effective leadership and mission success, serving as the primary link between enlisted soldiers and company-level officers.
More about Platoon Leader jobs
Infographic showing various Platoon Leader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,524 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

FT Staff: Security Officer

Shaw University

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Reporting to the Platoon Leader (Police Sergeant), Security Officers maintain security and safety of people and property in assigned  area on the  University's  campus  by patrolling  areas  on foot,  providing  campus  escorts  and emergency transportation, directing traffic, securing buildings and gates, enforcing university rules and regulations.  Security Officers may be required to resolve minor conflicts and prevent crimes, prepare reports, and serve as effective professional role models to the University's students. Security Officers are distinguished from campus Police Officers in that incumbents do not carry firearms, write citations or arrest violators, and N.C. law enforcement certification is not required.   Security Officers are expected to report highly unusual or suspicious criminal activity to sworn police officers for follow-up.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Effectively maintains order and provides protection for persons and property on campus, following established departmental procedures.
  • Provides an alert presence and a vigilant patrol of the campus buildings and grounds by the designated mode (foot or vehicle) to prevent and detect suspicious activity and potentially unsafe situations or conditions; gives special attention to areas of high crime incidents and high safety risks.
  • Recognizes dangerous situations and take proper corrective action; reports all suspicious activity, equipment malfunction, and other irregularities to the Platoon Leader.
  • Diligently provides campus escorts for personal safety and security, medical transports, motorist assists, money escorts.
  • Rapidly responds to alarms for intrusion, fire and other related security needs.
  • Provides emergency and non-emergency assistance to emergency medical personnel and local law enforcement agencies on campus.
  • Provides security for special events, social and sports events.
  • Effectively directs and controls traffic and the parking of vehicles.
  • Provides directions and general information to guest and visitors.
  • Secures and unlocks gates, buildings and other areas, as scheduled or as specifically authorized.
  • Conscientiously completes all shift-related duties in a timely and thorough manner.
  • Applies common sense discretion to achieve the appropriate outcome.
  • Responds to complaints of disturbance, accidents, stolen property or criminal activity.
  • Effectively settles disputes, resolves conflicts and/or negotiates with others while performing policing duties.
  • Takes statements from witnesses, suspects and/or other involved parties to obtain comprehensive information from all relevant sources.
  • Identifies evidence and protects crime scenes.
  • Prepare motor vehicle accident exchange forms.
  • Suitably reasons and forms conclusions about events/issues to identify appropriate solutions, conclusions, and approaches to issues or problems.
  • Appropriately applies knowledge of University policies and departmental procedures to arrive a valid course of action.
  • Initiates appropriate action in the handling and protection of offenders.
  • Actively seeks to establish and maintain effective relations with students, faculty, staff, the general public, and other law enforcement officials.
  • Effectively builds a sense of ownership/partnership with the campus community in their mutual safety and security
  • Represents the University in a professional manner to the internal campus community and the outside public.
  • Effectively  interacts  with  and establishes  rapport  with  persons  with  varied  cultural  backgrounds  and with disabilities.
  • Suitably balances any justified assertion of corrective authority without inappropriately offending others.
  • Creates timely, accurate, and complete incident reports.
  • Effectively composes comprehensive written records of incidents/complaints describing detailed information and action taken.
  • Maintains physical condition qualifications that enable rapid and effective response to emergency situations.
  • Is proficient in the handling and use of issued weapons and equipment: ASP baton, pepper spray, and handcuffs.
  • Is capable of using physical force when appropriate, to assist sworn law enforcement personnel, and as based on state and federal laws.
  • All other related duties as assigned.

Education and/or Experience:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Prior work experience (2+ years) involving customer service with the general public, preferably as a security officer on a college campus
  • Work effectively with a diverse population and in the proactive identification of problems and the development and implementation of appropriate solutions.
  • Quickly and calmly analyze emergency situations and objectively determine the proper course of action.
  • Cope with situations firmly, courteously, tactfully and with respect for the rights of others.
  • Demonstrate sound judgment in recognizing the scope and application of authority.

Other Competencies:

Must have a philosophy that is consistent with the Mission, Vision and Core Values of the organization.  Vision, commitment, and experience in achieving goals and pursuing excellence is critical; ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic and demanding environment. Must have strong verbal and written communication and organizational skills; proven ability to manage multiple complex assignments with sensitivity to deadlines, priorities, and changing circumstances; demonstrated professional work ethic and positive, problemsolving attitude. Must be able to read, write and speak fluently in English.

Physical Demands:

Ability to sit or stand for up to 8 hours/day. Some lifting (up to 25 pounds occasionally), bending, and carrying.    The employee is regularly required to talk and hear, and to use hands and fingers to handle or feel. Work environment includes outdoor weather conditions, which may be adverse or for extended periods of time. Multiple shifts 12 hours on a DuPont Schedule. Patrols required without vehicle, throughout the entire campus environment. The employee may be required to carry, drag, or restrain individuals from 50 to 300 pounds and lift in excess of 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.