ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Private Security Contractor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

USPA International

Armed Security Guard

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$18/hr

National Network of Certified Security Contractors * National Network of Private Investigators * Process & Legal Services * Specialized Interview and Interrogation Services ARMED SECURITY OFFICER ...

Amentum

Locksmith with Security Clearance

Mclean, VA · On-site

... * Assist contractors as required with knowledge of facilities, operations, and utilities ... DCJS) Private Security Registration * A willingness to work rotational shift if necessary ...

MDW Associates

Senior Contracts Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$90 - $110/hr

Operational Contract Support (OCS); Private Security Contracts (PSCs); Special Emergency ... Contracting or Contingency and Emergency Acquisition experience. * At least 5 years of recent ...

Akima, LLC

Part Time Guard II

Triangle, VA · On-site

$27.43/hr

J.S. Private Security Service Registration card, indicating armed Security Officer, unarmed ... contractor. As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our ...

Amentum

Locksmith with Security Clearance

Mclean, VA · On-site

$41.55/hr

... * Assist contractors as required with knowledge of facilities, operations, and utilities ... DCJS) Private Security Registration * A willingness to work rotational shift if necessary ...

GuidePoint Security

Cloud Security Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

... contractors. We are growing our federal presales engineering team and looking for technically ... GuidePoint Security is a rapidly growing, profitable, privately-held value added reseller that ...

MDW Associates

Senior Contracts Analyst

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$78K - $95K/yr

Private Security Contracts (PSCs); Special Emergency Procurement Authorities (SEPA); Combat Support ... Contracting or Contingency and Emergency Acquisition experience. * At least 5 years of recent ...

DTSV Inc

Personnel Security Assistant III

Arlington, VA

$62K - $72K/yr

Data entry in CISA case management systems and maintain personnel security files for all CISA Federal employees, contractors, private sector employees, detailees and interns. * Prepares written ...

New

Armada Ltd

Security Specialist will maintain accurate and up-to-date clearance status records for private ... contractor assigned to this position. Applying: If you feel you have the knowledge, skills and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrivate Security Contractor JobsPrivate Security Contractor Jobs in Virginia

Private Security Contractor information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do private security contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for private security contractor in Virginia is $18.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a private security contractor?

Private security contractors are professionals or companies hired to provide security services for individuals, organizations, or governments. Their duties can include protecting people, assets, and property, conducting risk assessments, and sometimes supporting military or law enforcement operations in high-risk areas. They may work in various settings such as corporate offices, events, or even conflict zones. Private security contractors are often former military or law enforcement personnel and must adhere to local and international laws while on duty.

What does a private security contractor do?

A private security contractor works for a company that contracts with the federal government, the military, or another private company to provide security operations and protection to civilians or other military personnel in a conflict zone. Some private security contractors also work domestically, providing the same services to individuals or organizations. Your duties include a range of analytical tasks, such as assessing geography or locations, marking out egress routes and exits, and ensuring all members of the force are briefed before an operation. Other responsibilities include securing premises before your client arrives and ensuring no one enters rooms or areas without authorization.

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

To thrive as a Private Security Contractor, you need a background in security, law enforcement, or military service, often supported by relevant licenses and certifications. Proficiency with surveillance technologies, firearms, communication systems, and security protocols is essential. Strong situational awareness, decision-making, and interpersonal skills help manage risks and interact with clients and teams effectively. These skills ensure the safety of clients and assets, enable quick responses to threats, and foster trust in high-pressure environments.

What are some common challenges faced by private security contractors when working in high-risk environments?

Private security contractors often operate in volatile or unfamiliar regions where safety risks, cultural differences, and rapidly changing situations are common. Adapting to unpredictable environments, maintaining constant situational awareness, and effectively communicating with local staff and clients are frequent challenges. Contractors must also navigate the balance between assertiveness and diplomacy, ensuring both security and client satisfaction. The ability to work well under pressure and quickly respond to incidents is essential for success in these settings.

What is the difference between Private Security Contractor vs Security Guard?

AspectPrivate Security ContractorSecurity Guard
CredentialsTypically requires specialized training, certifications, and sometimes licenses depending on the regionUsually requires basic security training and a license or permit
Work EnvironmentOften works in high-risk areas, private events, or for corporate clientsWorks at specific locations like malls, buildings, or events to monitor and control access
Employer & Industry UsageHired by private companies, government agencies, or individuals for specialized security servicesEmployed by security firms or directly hired to patrol and monitor premises

Private Security Contractors and Security Guards both work in the security industry, but Private Security Contractors typically handle more specialized, high-risk assignments requiring additional training and certifications. Security Guards focus on routine monitoring and access control at specific sites. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right security service for their needs.

Can you make good money in a private security contractor?

Private security contractors can earn competitive wages, especially with specialized skills, certifications, and experience. Salaries vary based on location, risk level, and the employer, with some contractors earning significantly more through overtime, bonuses, or working in high-risk environments.
More about Private Security Contractor jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Private Security Contractor jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Private Security Contractor jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Private Security Contractor jobs in Virginia?

For Private Security Contractor jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Private Security Contractor jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Private Security Contractor jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Private Security Contractor jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Private Security Contractor job openings:

Private Security Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Private Security Contractor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,251 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Armed/Unarmed Security Officer

Rapidcert LLC

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

The Role and Day-to-Day Responsibilities:

  • Respond to emergencies or abnormal situations at our facilities
  • When confronted with a significant adverse situation or emergency, foster de-escalation and/or appropriate escalation including the possibility of armed response
  • Ongoing training to maintain proficiency using protective equipment, restraint devices and weapons
  • Guard and control access to our facilities, including registration and escorting of personnel or guests
  • Screen visitors, incoming packages and mail, etc.
  • Prevent unauthorized access and patrol entries, exits and parking
  • Prevent damage to our assets and/or facilities by the action or inaction of others
  • Monitor and report incidents and status, providing for the security and safety of property and personnel
  • Perform periodic tours to check protection status and report noteworthy observations
  • Assist with safety measures in response to incidents (fire, medical emergency, bomb threats, flooding, inclement weather, or other incidents)

Basic Requirements:

  • US Citizenship (authorized to work in the USA)
  • Able to obtain a concealed carry permit
  • Proficiency with computers and software (using the Internet / web apps)
  • Prior experience safeguarding people or assets
  • Able to Qualify for required licensing and training for utilization of firearms
  • Ability to type at least 40 words per minute
  • Experience using Apple productivity apps (a Mac-friendly person)
  • Several positive personal or professional references

Physical, Environmental and Cognitive Requirements:

  • Seeing, hearing, and communicating (speaking and writing) effectively.
  • Reaching with arms and hands, kneeling, crawling and crouching along with frequent standing, walking, and sitting, which may include extended periods of time; Climbing stairs and/or walking up inclines, and regularly traversing uneven or technical terrain; Lifting and/or moving up to 10 pounds and sometimes lifting and/or moving up to 25 pounds.

Licensing and Permit Requirements:

  • A Virginia State driver's license (motor vehicle license) is required
  • Any applicable state, county and municipal licensing and permit requirements for private security officers and armed security work, and specific protective device and weapons qualifications are also required to be maintained by any individual in this position

Bonus Points:

  • Prior military or law enforcement service
  • Multi-lingual
  • Experience operating a CT or X-Ray screening system
  • Excellent verbal communication skills
  • Evidence of a natural inclination to protect

Compensation:

  • Pay commensurate with prior experience
  • $16-$17 per hour

About Us:

We conduct security for a private business in Virginia Beach. Rapidcert is not a contracted security company for multiple sites. 

Powered by JazzHR

faRpCm8xzp