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Private Security Contractor Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Private Security Contractor information

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$13

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$28

How much do private security contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for private security contractor in Seattle, WA is $21.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $21.44 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.
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Private Security Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Private Security Contractor job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,232 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Security Officer

Seattle, WA • On-site

Terminal Security Solutions, Inc.
See more jobs at Terminal Security Solutions, Inc.external

$23 - $23.65/hr

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Security Officer
Pay Rate Range: $23.00-$23.65
About us
Terminal Security Solutions (TSS) is an MTSA regulated maritime facilities security firm, providing customer service-focused solutions coupled with tailored operating procedures, cutting-edge training programs, security technology and the requisite oversight to operate in today's heavily regulated and fast-paced cruise, cargo, and port industries. Our mission is to consistently deliver safe, efficient, innovative and environmentally responsible maritime operational solutions for our customers.
Position Summary
The Unarmed Private Security Officer supports safe, efficient access control, ID verification, roving break relieves, identifying and reporting suspicious activity in all Pier 91 areas. This role provides security awareness duties consistent with established facility security plan (FSP), including monitoring entry, and exit areas. Following post orders and aligning with general MTSA and facility protocols. This is an outdoor, indoor, guest-facing role requiring attentiveness, clear communication, and safety-driven judgment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Access Control
  • Enforce perimeter access point post orders.
  • Assist guests, visitors, terminal staff, vendors, and crew as required based on the assigned post.
  • Maintain control of pedestrian flow through designated pedestrian routes in the terminal.
  • Enforce access control in secure and restricted areas as designated in the terminal security plan (FSP).
  • Prompt notification of all access control related events to on duty lead and/or supervisor.

Safety Monitoring
  • Monitor for suspicious activity, if suspicious activity is identified, report it promptly to lead and/or supervisor.
  • Maintain visibility and awareness of surroundings, reporting unsafe conditions, and hazards.
  • Enforce established MTSA & FSP requirements, pedestrian flow routes, secure-area and restricted-area protocols.

Customer Service & Communication
  • Provide friendly, professional assistance to guests, drivers, vendors, and contractors.
  • Use clear verbal and radio communications.
  • Direct questions or operational issues to lead and/or supervisors when needed.

Incident Response & Reporting
  • Respond calmly to incidents.
  • Complete brief activity or incident reports as assigned using approved formats.
  • Support and participate in training, simulations and safety drills when requested.

Physical Demands & Work Environment
Physical Demands: The physical demands described here represent those that are typically required to perform the essential functions of this position.
For operations roles: This role requires the ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift up to 20 pounds. It may involve regular exposure to outdoor environments and active work sites. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory.
Work Environment:
For operations roles: Work may be performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, including active job sites with varying weather conditions and potential exposure to noise, dust, cold weather, and other occupational hazards. Safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) are provided and required as appropriate.
Benefits
  • Referral bonus (Restrictions Apply).
  • Bonus for expired or altered boarding pass.
  • Bonus for expired or altered TWIC card.
  • Bonus for expired or altered PCST and/or Port of Seattle ID badge.
  • Bonus for expired or altered I-95.
  • Holiday pay when worked
  • Daily Pay available.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Why Join Us
At Nautilus, our people are our most valuable asset. We foster a collaborative, inclusive environment where team members feel valued, supported and empowered to grow with us. Whether you are starting your career or looking for the next step, we are committed to investing in your development, offering clear pathways for advancement, ongoing training and leadership development.
With operating areas across CA, FL, IN, NC, NJ, SC, TX and WA, we continue to impact diverse communities and industries. Nautilus International Holding Corporation and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.
If you require reasonable accommodation to apply for a position or to perform the essential functions of a role, please contact HRDept@nautilusintl.com.
This job description is not intended to be an employment contract or guarantee of employment. Employment with Nautilus International Holding Corporation is at-will, meaning either the employee or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice. This job description may be modified at any time at the sole discretion of the company.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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