ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Prior Law Enforcement Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrior Law Enforcement Jobs

Prior Law Enforcement information

See salary details

$35.5K

$88.8K

$136.5K

How much do prior law enforcement jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for prior law enforcement in the United States is $88,815.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are common second careers for retired cops?

Retired law enforcement officers often pursue second careers in security, private investigation, or consulting due to their experience in crime prevention and investigation. Many also transition into roles such as training, teaching, or administrative positions that leverage their knowledge of law enforcement procedures and communication skills.

What else can you do with a law enforcement degree?

A law enforcement degree can qualify individuals for careers in private security, criminal justice administration, forensic analysis, or compliance roles. It also provides a foundation for positions in investigations, corrections, or policy development, often requiring additional certifications or specialized training. Skills such as communication, problem-solving, and knowledge of legal procedures are valuable across these fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a prior law enforcement professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a prior law enforcement professional, you need a solid background in criminal justice, investigative procedures, and law enforcement protocols, typically supported by police academy training and relevant certifications. Familiarity with crime databases, evidence management systems, and digital reporting tools is commonly required. Integrity, strong decision-making, and effective communication are essential soft skills that set top professionals apart. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safety, upholding justice, and successfully navigating high-pressure situations in law enforcement roles.

What are some common challenges faced by individuals transitioning from a prior law enforcement background into civilian roles?

Transitioning from a law enforcement career into civilian positions can present unique challenges, such as adapting to different workplace cultures, adjusting to less-structured environments, and translating law enforcement skills into business or corporate language. Many former officers find it helpful to focus on their strengths in leadership, problem-solving, and crisis management when applying for new roles. Networking with professionals in the target industry and seeking mentorship can also ease the transition and help identify roles where your experience is highly valued.

What is prior law enforcement experience?

Prior law enforcement experience refers to having previously worked as a police officer, sheriff’s deputy, federal agent, or in a similar official capacity responsible for upholding and enforcing laws. This background typically involves formal training, field experience, and knowledge of criminal justice procedures. Many employers value prior law enforcement experience for jobs in security, investigations, or related fields because it demonstrates strong problem-solving, communication, and crisis management skills.

What does prior law enforcement mean?

Prior law enforcement refers to experience working in a police or related security agency before applying for a new law enforcement position. It often involves skills such as investigation, report writing, and knowledge of legal procedures, and may be a requirement or a preferred qualification for certain roles.

What is a good job for an ex-cop?

A good job for an ex-cop includes roles such as security manager, private investigator, or corrections officer, which utilize law enforcement skills and experience. These positions often require background checks, relevant certifications, and knowledge of security protocols or investigative techniques.

What is the difference between Prior Law Enforcement vs Security Officer?

AspectPrior Law EnforcementSecurity Officer
Required CredentialsPolice academy training, law enforcement certificationSecurity guard license, basic training
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, patrols, investigationsPrivate security sites, malls, events
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, public safetyPrivate companies, property management

Prior Law Enforcement professionals typically have law enforcement certifications and work in public safety roles, while Security Officers focus on safeguarding property and people in private settings. Both roles require security-related training but differ in scope, responsibilities, and work environments.

More about Prior Law Enforcement jobs
What cities are hiring for Prior Law Enforcement jobs? Cities with the most Prior Law Enforcement job openings:
What states have the most Prior Law Enforcement jobs? States with the most job openings for Prior Law Enforcement jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Prior Law Enforcement jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Prior Law Enforcement jobs are:
Prior Law Enforcement jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prior Law Enforcement job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,815 per year, or $42.7 per hour.
Executive Protection Field Specialist - Prior Law Enforcement Preferred

Executive Protection Field Specialist - Prior Law Enforcement Preferred

Gavin de Becker & Associates

Palo Alto, CA

$185K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

GDBA's Mission: The Safety, Privacy, and Wellbeing of our Clients

This is a full-time hourly position with first-year earnings ranging from $185,000 to $225,000.

To learn more about earnings, promotions, benefits, and more – visit GDBA.com/careers

Your Role as a Protector:

  • Threat and risk assessment: Continuously evaluating potential threats and vulnerabilities to develop mitigation strategies.
  • Advance planning: Conducting reconnaissance of locations, planning secure travel routes, and preparing emergency plans before the client arrives.
  • Close protection: Providing a physical security presence and immediate defense for the client during travel and events.
  • Crisis management: Making rapid, decisive actions during emergencies, including medical incidents, security breaches, or hostile situations.
  • Secure transportation: Arranging and providing secure transport, which includes defensive and evasive driving
  • Liaison: Coordinating with law enforcement, local authorities, and venue staff to ensure a seamless and secure operation.
  • Surveillance: Performing surveillance detection and counter-surveillance to identify and deter threats.
  • Residential protection: Monitor the property through command center technology, screening visitors and vendors, and controlling all access points to the protected site.

Who You Are:

GDBA's ideal candidate for a this position possesses one or more of the following:

  • 10+ years working in a full-time certified law enforcement officer position(s). Federal, State, and Local level officers are all encouraged to apply.
  • HR-218 (LEOSA) or CA CCW eligibility is ideal.
  • 10+ years of experience conducting close protection/executive protection operations for high-net-worth clients/at-risk clients. Experience working in one of or a combination of the following environments is preferred: Residential, Corporate, Technology, or Military/Law Enforcement Protective Services Details (PSD).
  • 10+ years of Special Operations (SOF) military experience – All Branches Welcome to Apply. Unique experiences such as CIA Global Response Staff (GRS) are also highly desirable.

Hiring Process Requirements:

  • 12-Day Introductory Essential Protector Skills (EPS) Training Academy in San Antonio, TX
  • Be able to pass physical readiness test (Pull-ups, Push-ups, Sit-ups, 800m run)
  • Must be able to swim
  • Must be drug and nicotine free
  • Background check required
  • Must be able to obtain appropriate state firearm and security licensing