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Protection Officer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Personal Protection Officer

Reston, VA

$17 - $20/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Personal Protection Officer (PPO) - Security Services provides comprehensive protective security and operational support in a high-threat, contingency environment. This role is ...

Personal Protection Officer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Personal Protection Officer (PPO) - Security Services provides comprehensive protective security and operational support in a high-threat, contingency environment. This role is ...

Showing results 21-40

Protection Officer information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do protection officer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for protection officer in Virginia is $19.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a protection officer?

A protection officer is a type of security guard who monitors a facility during and after business hours to prevent theft, damage, and other types of loss. Typical job duties involve interacting with employees, observing customers and clients, and patrolling the grounds. As a protection officer, you must document any information related to incidents of theft, damage, and loss. Most protection officers are not law enforcement officials, so when you are faced with a criminal situation, you call law enforcement and provide support to these officers on the scene. There are different levels for this career, and the higher levels may require more responsibility and potentially armed guarding duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a protection officer?

To thrive as a Protection Officer, you need a solid understanding of security protocols, risk assessment, and emergency response procedures, often supported by relevant certifications or security licenses. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control software, and incident reporting tools is typically required. Strong observation skills, integrity, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety of people and property, as well as for responding quickly and appropriately to potential threats.

What are some common challenges faced by protection officers in the field?

Protection Officers often encounter challenges such as managing high-stress situations, balancing the need for vigilance with approachability, and adapting quickly to changing security risks. They must remain calm and decisive during emergencies, while also maintaining clear communication with team members and the public. Additionally, they frequently collaborate with law enforcement and organizational staff to ensure safety protocols are effectively implemented.

What is the difference between Protection Officer vs Security Guard?

AspectProtection OfficerSecurity Guard
CredentialsMay require security certifications, first aid, and sometimes specialized trainingOften requires basic security or guard licenses
Work EnvironmentTypically works in corporate, government, or NGO settings focusing on protection and risk managementUsually stationed at physical locations like buildings, events, or premises for surveillance
Employer & IndustryEmployers include government agencies, NGOs, and private companiesEmployers are security firms, retail stores, or private clients

The Protection Officer and Security Guard roles both focus on safety, but Protection Officers often handle risk assessment, threat management, and work in more specialized environments. Security Guards primarily focus on physical security and surveillance. The roles can overlap, but Protection Officers typically require more training and work in more complex security scenarios.

What are the most commonly searched types of Protection Officer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Protection Officer jobs in Virginia are:

What job categories do people searching Protection Officer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Protection Officer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Protection Officer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Protection Officer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Protection Officer jobs in VA?

For Protection Officer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Protection Officer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 71% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,849 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Armed Custom Protection Officer (CPO)

Allied Universal

Sandston, VA • On-site

$33.07/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Allied Universal rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 2,580 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 117 rated security


Job description

Overview

Company Overview:

Allied Universal, North America's leading security and facility services company, offers rewarding careers that provide you a sense of purpose. While working in a dynamic, welcoming, and collaborative workplace, you will be part of a team that contributes to a culture that positively impacts the communities and customers we serve.

Job Description

Great Benefits!

Sat:   2pm-10pm

Sun:  10pm-6am

Mon:  10pm-6am

Tue:   10pm-6am

Pay Rate: $33.07

Allied Universal is hiring a Armed Custom Protection Officer (CPO). The Armed Custom Protection Officer will conduct armed foot and/or vehicle patrol (interior and/or exterior). The Armed Custom Protection Officer will also control access and egress; monitor CCTV and alarm systems; compose reports; deter criminal activity and misconduct.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Perform security patrols of designated areas on foot or in vehicle
  • Watch for irregular or unusual conditions that may create security concerns or safety hazards
  • Sound alarms or calls police or fire department in case of fire or presence of unauthorized persons
  • Warn violators of rule infractions, such as loitering, smoking, or carrying forbidden articles
  • Permit authorized persons to enter property and monitors entrances and exits
  • Observe departing personnel to protect against theft of company property and ensures that authorized removal of property is conducted within appropriate client requirements
  • Investigate and prepare reports on accidents, incidents, and suspicious activities; maintain written logs as required by the post
  • Aid customers, employees, and visitors in a courteous and professional manner
  • Make emergency notifications as necessary pursuant to site Post Orders
  • Make productivity and cost reduction recommendations to management
  • Make recommendations for physical security surveys and post orders

QUALIFICATIONS (MUST HAVE):

  • Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Licensing requirements are subject to state and/or local laws and regulations and may be required prior to employment
  • Must possess one or more of the following:
    • Military service in an occupational specialty related to law enforcement such as military police, combat arms, or special forces
    • Minimum of two (2) years of experience carrying a firearm as a law enforcement officer, with zero disciplinary action for the misuse of firearms or use of force
  • Be at least 21 years of age
  • Be able to operate radio or telephone equipment and/or console monitors
  • Demonstrated ability to interact cordially and communicate with the public
  • Effective oral and written communication
  • Problem solving skills
  • Active listening skills
  • Assess and evaluate situations effectively
  • Identify critical issues quickly and accurately
  • Compile, sort, and interpret data
  • Research, investigate, compile information
  • Mediate conflict with tact, diplomacy
  • Write informatively, clearly, and accurately
  • Teamwork
  • Attention to detail

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS (NICE TO HAVE):

  • Ability to obtain 20 hour Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) certificate or currently possess OPOTA certificate

BENEFITS:

  • Medical, dental, vision, basic life, AD&D, and disability insurance
  • Enrollment in our company's 401(k)plan
  • Seven holidays annually paid at time and a half, if worked
  • 40 hours of vacation after one year of employment at eligible work assignments; unused vacation is only paid out where required by law
Closing

Allied Universal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, age, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status or relationship/association with a protected veteran, or any other basis or characteristic protected by law. For more information: www.aus.com

If you have difficulty using the online system and require an alternate method to apply or require an accommodation, please contact our local Human Resources department. To find an office near you, please visit: www.aus.com/offices.

Requisition ID2026-1640572Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Allied Universal

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Allied Universal® is a leading security and facility services company. We provide proactive security services and cutting-edge smart technology to deliver evolving, tailored solutions that allow our clients to focus on their core business. Our excellence starts with our local leadership and local presence. Operating in more than 90 countries, our global workforce of approximately 800,000 people. Employees help to deliver our promise globally and locally: keeping people safe so our customers and communities can thrive. As we build the world's best services company, we continue to expand our footprint and infrastructure on a global and local level. In North America, we operate our business under the existing Allied Universal brand, and our international business operates under the G4S brand.

Industry

Investigation and physical security services, chemical manufacturing and real estate

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Ana, CA, US