1

Private Security Contractor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Security Specialist

Stafford, VA · On-site

$36.06 - $43.27/hr

This is a Key Personnel role on a high-visibility FBI contract focused on processing and managing security clearances for private-sector partners and contractors. Location: Quantico, VA (primary ...

Security Specialist

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$36.06 - $43.27/hr

This is a Key Personnel role on a high-visibility FBI contract focused on processing and managing security clearances for private-sector partners and contractors. Location: Quantico, VA (primary ...

Security Specialist

Quantico, VA · On-site

$36.06 - $43.27/hr

This is a Key Personnel role on a high-visibility FBI contract focused on processing and managing security clearances for private-sector partners and contractors. Location: Quantico, VA (primary ...

Security Specialist

Lorton, VA · On-site

$36.06 - $43.27/hr

This is a Key Personnel role on a high-visibility FBI contract focused on processing and managing security clearances for private-sector partners and contractors. Location: Quantico, VA (primary ...

What Impact You'll Have GRVTY Inc. is seeking an experienced Facility Security Officer (FSO) to join our security team within a private sector defense classified contracting environment. This role is ...

Showing results 21-40

Private Security Contractor information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do private security contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 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 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 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 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 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.

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 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:
Infographic showing various Private Security Contractor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,251 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Program Security Representative

SYSTEM HIGH CORPORATION

Arlington, VA

$19.50 - $23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

The Program Security Representative (PSR) requires a fundamental knowledge of the basics of program protection, classification architectures, Operations Security (OPSEC), Communications Security (COMSEC), sensitive test planning, intelligence & counterintelligence threat support requirements, secure information transmission, secure hardware transportation, and the principles governing controls on fundamental research activities. Qualifying relevant experience includes demonstrated recent experience in successfully performing as a program security representative (or similar title) for one or more programs on a contract or in an organization that provides security support to a federal entity or private corporation in a classified environment

Duties shall include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Develop and support security architectures for new technology programs across the entire spectrum of classification; including the ability to facilitate intelligence requests to obtain state of- the-world, rest-of-the-world, or state-of-the-art technology/capability status. In developing a new program, the PSR must be able to analyze the program, national policy, existing, related programs (as applicable), and intelligently craft a security classification architecture for the program that facilitates the secure execution of the program with minimal impact to cost and schedule. Additionally, the program's life cycle must be considered and addressed in the security classification architecture to facilitate transition activities.
  • Research and recommend/develop long and short range program protection security strategies and tactics for new and established programs, as well as changes in program direction.
  • Using their knowledge of the various security disciplines (e.g. physical, information, personnel, etc.) determine, apply, and monitor appropriate security requirements and tasks relative to the specific technology programs to be protected. Prepare and present suggestions for improvement as appropriate
  • Create DD 254's, DoD Contract Security Classification Specification, for classified efforts, in various life-cycle stages, ensuring security requirements are clear and concise.
    • DD 254s must be created and staffed to the PSO and Information/Industrial Security section within 5 business days of being tasked.
    • Signed and approved DD 254s must be disseminated to appropriate contractors and contracting agents within 2 business days of receipt.
  • Apply a subject matter expert working knowledge of Executive Order 13526, the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), DoD Information Security Manuals, and DoD SAP Security Manuals.
  • Indoctrinate newly assigned personnel and de-brief departing personnel
  • Support the creation, processing, coordination, and approval of physical security (SAP Facility and Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) and Automated Information Systems (AIS)) accreditations, as well as entering such information, including individuals programs, contracts and performers, if required, into appropriate information security management systems, i.e.:
  1. DARPA Archive System
  2. Joint Personnel Adjudication System (JPAS)
  3. DARPA Facility and Security Tracking System (DFASTS)
  4. Security Control Suite (SCS)
  5. SILVERADO / Joint Access Database Environment (JADE)
  • Communicate effectively with other Service /Agency program security staffs including, but not limited to, the Defense Security Service (DSS), Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Department of Energy, Missile Defense Agency (MDA), Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), and agencies and offices within the IC.
  • Develop, write, review, coordinate, and execute security documentation, e.g.:
  1. Security Classification Guides (SCGs); all levels
  2. Program Protection Plans
  3. Test Security Plans
  4. Public Affairs (PA) / Perception Management Plans
  5. Exposure Contingency Plans (ECP)
  6. Network Accreditation Plans
  7. System Security Plans
  8. Technology Transfer and Program
  9. Transition Plans
  10. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  11. Co-Utilization Agreements (CUA)
  12. O'CONUS Deployment Plans
  13. Managed Access Plans
  14. Treaty Compliance Plans
  15. Transportation Plans
  16. Dismantle, Disposition & Demilitarization Plans
  17. Detailed trip & meeting reports
  18. Memorandums of Understanding (MOU)
  19. Memorandums of Agreements (MOA)

Note: All PSRs must be able to successfully draft, review, and when necessary prepare final documents for staffing and signature within 30 calendar days of tasking.

  • Plan, coordinate, provide, and manage security support for meetings. Attend program reviews, i.e., preliminary design reviews (PDR), critical design reviews (CDR), and integrated product team (IPT) reviews, to ensure changes to system baselines don't negatively affect security and initiate actions to add mitigation where necessary.
  • Actively support Agency Staff Assistance Visits of cleared defense industry base contractors and government agencies as well as the DARPA Self-Inspection Programs.
  • Perform OPSEC analysis and provide other OPSEC support, to include identification of critical program information (CPI), collecting and analyzing threat data, and developing and coordinating program OPSEC plans.
  • Plan and assist with program close-out actions including participation in program closeout reviews at performer sites.
  • Participate in and play a key role in the Broad Area Announcement (BAA) process in support of new programs, provide security support to all classification and security architected programs, and ensure security support for all classified programs. Support the PM's vision to bring in new ideas while protecting National Security interests
  • Extensive knowledge of Special Access Programs
  • Apply working knowledge of Executive Order 13526, NISPOM, NISPOM Overprint, ICD series, DCID series, DoD 5205.7 SAP manuals, and other applicable security policies
  • Previous DoD experience strongly desired
  • Possess the energy, experience, and subject matter expertise to demonstrate sound judgment, foresight and problem solving skills in a fast-pace S&T RDT&E environment
  • Possess excellent organizational and communication skills; demonstrating an ability to communicate, interact easily and effectively with a wide variety of individuals and echelons in both written and verbal forms
  • Manage and maintain detailed information and documentation
  • Possess excellent research and data-gathering skills with an ability to interpret/analyze complex information within operational RDT&E) / S&T environments
  • Work independently, as well as in a team environment, within the bounds and guidelines of the organization

Professional Business Functions:

  • Attend meetings (either locally or out-of-area) and create meeting summaries or trip reports
  • Prepare and submit meeting minutes on an as-required basis
  • Prepare/present briefings, incorporating graphics (if appropriate) for/to SID/ DARPA leaders
  • Prepare various security forms associated with their duties
  • Assist in entry control and perform escort duties for visitors
  • Answer telephones and other modes of administrative communications in the performance of duties
  • Perform self-inspections, identify security discrepancies, and report security incidents
  • Perform, or support, security inspections, identify security discrepancies and prepare reports
  • Perform courier duties within the continental United States (CONUS)
  • Perform user-level security administrator and information security responsibilities are required and in compliance with US Codes, Executive Orders, and DoD and DARPA policy
  • Perform objective reviews on all documentation encountered during performance of duties

Clearance

  • Active TS/SCI is required
  • Subject to a random counter-intelligence scope polygraphs as a condition of access eligibility.

Years of Experience/Education Requirements

  • BS with 5 years of related DoD or IC experience or AS with 8 years of DoD or IC related experience

Travel Requirements

  • Ability to travel to CONUS and/or OCONUS locations
  • Limited travel within the region
  • Must have active US passport for OCONUS travel requirements

Additional Information

  • This job description is not designed to cover or contain all job duties required of the employee. There may be additional activities, duties and/or responsibilities that are required for this position that are not listed in this job description.
  • In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
  • System High is a Military friendly employer. Our extensive work on behalf of the U.S. government offers those who have served in uniform an opportunity to continue to serve their country in a new and exciting way while enjoying a successful civilian career.
  • System High values the power and strength of diverse backgrounds on the culture and performance of our company. We strive to maintain an inclusive culture to encourage each employee to bring their whole self to the mission.
  • System High Corporation is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.
  • If you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position with us, please email recruiting@systemhigh.com.
  • Legal notices can be viewed on the following PDFs: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal; EPPA Notice; FMLA Notice

Warning: Beware of recruitment scams: System High will never request money or personal purchases during the hiring process. Verify all communications come from a systemhigh.com or msg.paycomonline.com email address.