ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Port Security Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Covenant

Project Manager - Port of San Diego

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Covenant Aviation Security, LLC has provided over 35 million hours of aviation security services ... Covenant is seeking an experienced Project Manager - Port Security Operations to lead and oversee a ...

Centurion Security Services

Be Seen First

Security Officers

San Pedro, CA · On-site

$18.42 - $19/hr

Port Security (with a TWIC card) * Parking Lot Security * Security Booth * Scrap Metal Yard Security * Industrial Security * Residential Security * Lead Guard * ROVER * * CAN YOU WORK WEEKENDS? * CAN ...

Leidos

Tier II Network Technician

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$73K - $132K/yr

Configure and troubleshoot layer 2 switching (VLAN's, Port Security, Thin Configs). * Perform IOS upgrades for Cisco, Juniper, Brocade and Foundry OS. * Experience with Visio. * Familiar with ...

Leidos

Tier II Network Technician

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$73K - $132K/yr

Configure and troubleshoot layer 2 switching (VLAN's, Port Security, Thin Configs). * Perform IOS upgrades for Cisco, Juniper, Brocade and Foundry OS. * Experience with Visio. * Familiar with ...

NewGen

Tier II Network Engineer (CA)

El Segundo, CA · On-site

Configure and troubleshoot layer 2 switching (VLAN's, Port Security, Thin Configs.) * Perform IOS upgrades for Cisco, Juniper, Brocade and Foundry OS * Experience with Visio * Familiar with ...

T-Solutions, Inc.

Port Engineer

San Diego, CA

Our expertise spans defense, security, maintenance engineering, logistics, and business ... As a Port Engineer, you will lead a maintenance team and act as the primary representative for the ...

T-Solutions, Inc.

Port Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Our expertise spans defense, security, maintenance engineering, logistics, and business ... As a Port Engineer, you will lead a maintenance team and act as the primary representative for the ...

T-Solutions, Inc.

Port Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Our expertise spans defense, security, maintenance engineering, logistics, and business ... As a Port Engineer, you will lead a maintenance team and act as the primary representative for the ...

T-Solutions, Inc.

Port Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Our expertise spans defense, security, maintenance engineering, logistics, and business ... As a Port Engineer, you will lead a maintenance team and act as the primary representative for the ...

T-Solutions, Inc.

Port Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Our expertise spans defense, security, maintenance engineering, logistics, and business ... As a Port Engineer, you will lead a maintenance team and act as the primary representative for the ...

T-Solutions, Inc.

Port Engineer

San Diego, CA

Our expertise spans defense, security, maintenance engineering, logistics, and business ... As a Port Engineer, you will lead a maintenance team and act as the primary representative for the ...

Allied Universal

Security Officer - Port

Port Hueneme, CA · On-site

$19.76/hr

As a Security Officer - Port in PORT HUENEME, CA , you will serve and safeguard clients in a range of industries such as Government, and more. As an Access Control Officer at a government location ...

Allied Universal

Security Officer - Port

Port Hueneme, CA · On-site

$19.76/hr

As a Security Officer - Port in PORT HUENEME, CA , you will serve and safeguard clients in a range of industries such as Government, and more. As an Access Control Officer at a government location ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPort Security JobsPort Security Jobs in California

Port Security information

See California salary details

$27.6K

$66.8K

$159.9K

How much do port security jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for port security in California is $66,789.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,400.00 and $80,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is port security?

A Port Security job involves protecting maritime facilities, cargo, and vessels from security threats such as smuggling, theft, and unauthorized access. Personnel in this role monitor port activities, enforce security protocols, and collaborate with law enforcement agencies. They may conduct inspections, respond to emergencies, and ensure compliance with regulations like the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA). Strong situational awareness and adherence to security procedures are essential for preventing disruptions and maintaining safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in port security?

To thrive as a Port Security professional, you need knowledge of maritime security procedures, risk assessment, and compliance with international port safety regulations, often supported by relevant certifications such as TWIC or ISPS Code training. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control technology, and emergency response protocols is essential. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you remain vigilant and coordinate with team members or law enforcement agencies. These abilities are crucial for maintaining the safety, security, and efficient operation of port facilities.

What are some typical challenges faced by port security professionals on the job?

Port Security professionals often encounter challenges like monitoring large, dynamic environments and responding quickly to security breaches or suspicious activity. They may need to work irregular hours, including nights and weekends, to ensure 24/7 coverage and protection of port assets. Adapting to changing security protocols and handling situations involving hazardous materials or unauthorized access requires ongoing training and situational awareness. Despite these challenges, the role offers a sense of responsibility and the opportunity to work as part of a close-knit, mission-driven security team.

What are popular job titles related to Port Security jobs in California? For Port Security jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Port Security jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Port Security jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Port Security jobs? Cities in California with the most Port Security job openings:
Port Security jobs near you
Infographic showing various Port Security job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 8% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,789 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Project Manager - Port of San Diego

Covenant

San Diego, CA • On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

America's largest privately owned company dedicated exclusively to aviation security. Our services include passenger, baggage, cargo, and employee screening, external/internal airport patrols, access control, air carrier security services, and more. Covenant Aviation Security, LLC has provided over 35 million hours of aviation security services.
Covenant was founded in 1992 to provide highly trained and motivated protective security forces to government agencies and select commercial customers. Building on Covenant's reputation for first class delivery of high-quality service and cost-effective contract administration, Covenant has enjoyed substantial growth while maintaining an unparalleled commitment to performance.
*Contingent Upon Contract Award*
Covenant is seeking an experienced Project Manager - Port Security Operations to lead and oversee a complex, compliance-driven maritime security program at the Port of San Diego. The ideal candidate will bring proven leadership experience in seaport, airport, or critical infrastructure environments and possess a strong working knowledge of the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA), U.S. Coast Guard regulations, and Department of Homeland Security requirements.
This role is critical to the success of port security operations and requires a leader capable of managing multidisciplinary teams, ensuring regulatory compliance, and delivering consistent, high-quality security services in high-consequence environments.
Company History
Founded in 2002, Covenant Aviation Security (CAS) was established to provide a higher standard of transportation security following the events of September 11, 2001. CAS pioneered a customer-focused security model built on a highly trained, professional workforce supported by competitive wages, benefits, and ongoing development.
Today, CAS is the largest private contractor providing Screening Partnership Program (SPP) services to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and an industry leader in aviation security solutions. Through its commitment to safety, compliance, operational excellence, and customer service, CAS provides comprehensive security and screening services for airports, airlines, and government agencies across the United States.
Employment Compensation & Benefits
Covenant Aviation Security offers a competitive compensation package, with a targeted salary range of $90k - $105k annually, depending on qualifications, experience, and contract requirements.
In addition, employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their health, well-being, and financial security, including:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (effective the first day of the month following sixty (60) days of continuous employment)
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Matching Contributions
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Company-Paid Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Company-Furnished Uniforms (where applicable)
  • Paid Training and Professional Development Opportunities

Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements, plan provisions, and applicable contract terms and may be modified at the Company's discretion.
Essential Functions
  • Provide overall leadership and management of port security operations at active marine terminals and associated facilities.
  • Oversee multidisciplinary security teams operating in environments requiring Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) access.
  • Ensure U.S. Coast Guard-compliant screening operations at regulated facilities.
  • Manage all administrative and operational functions, including staffing, scheduling, training oversight, quality assurance, invoicing, reporting, and recordkeeping.
  • Ensure full compliance with MTSA, U.S. Coast Guard, DHS, and applicable state and local regulations.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain site-specific security policies, procedures, and post orders.
  • Coordinate initial and recurrent training programs, including MTSA training, DHS-approved screener training, and equipment-specific X-ray certification.
  • Maintain audit readiness and documentation to support regulatory inspections and client reviews.
  • Oversee CCTV and sensor system operations, including coordination with camera operators and integration with port security infrastructure.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for the Port District, law enforcement agencies, and other key stakeholders.
  • Lead incident response activities, reporting, and after-action reviews to support continuous improvement.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience managing security services of similar scope and complexity, preferably within a seaport, airport, or critical infrastructure environment.
  • Current Secret Security Clearance, or the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance upon hire.
  • Current U.S. Coast Guard-approved Facility Security Officer (FSO) certification, or the ability to obtain and maintain FSO certification upon hire.
  • Current Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), or the ability to obtain and maintain a TWIC upon hire.
  • Proven leadership experience overseeing large, multidisciplinary security teams.
  • Strong administrative and organizational skills, including policy development, documentation, and compliance management.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, SharePoint, and Teams for communication, reporting, and collaboration.

Preferred Qualifications
  • In-depth knowledge of MTSA requirements and maritime security principles.
  • Prior experience managing complex screening operations and X-ray screening programs.
  • Familiarity with CCTV, access control, and advanced sensor systems in port or critical infrastructure environments.
  • Experience coordinating with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and harbor partners.

Key Competencies
  • Strong leadership and team management skills.
  • High level of professionalism and customer-service orientation.
  • Ability to manage complex operations in regulated, high-risk environments.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to compliance and continuous improvement.

Physical Demands
  • May require standing, walking, sitting, and patrolling for extended periods of time.
  • May be required to climb stairs, ladders, gangways, vessel access points, and elevated observation areas.
  • May be required to traverse uneven surfaces, docks, piers, terminal facilities, and cargo operation areas.
  • Physically, mentally, and emotionally capable of performing all duties required for assigned responsibilities.
  • Capable of performing normal or emergency duties requiring moderate to strenuous physical exertion, including prolonged walking, climbing stairs, responding to incidents, and emergency response activities.
  • Must be able to safely operate in active maritime and industrial environments while maintaining situational awareness.
  • Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

EEO Statement
Covenant Aviation Security is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Covenant Aviation Security is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment drug testing.

Apply