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Protective Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Career Connections Inc

Protective Services Agent

Miami, FL · On-site

$75K - $139K/yr

  • Medical

Provide protective security services for high-profile facilities and operations * Support executive and dignitary movement coordination * Assist with security operations during major events and ...

Apple

Operations Coordinator, Executive Protection

Austin, TX

$140K - $211K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

The Protective Services team at Apple manages the security of our most valuable asset: our people ... This person must be able to operate within a small team environment, support protective operations ...

Career Connections Inc

Security Operations Agent

New York, NY · On-site

$75K - $139K/yr

  • Medical

Up to $75,000 We are expanding our national protective security division and seeking disciplined ... Provide protective security services for high-profile facilities and operations * Support executive ...

VTG

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$130K - $197K/yr

Overview VTG is seeking a Space Protection Operations Engineer to join the Air Force, Space, and Intelligence Business Groupproviding systems engineering and technical advisory services to a rapidly ...

VTG

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$130K - $197K/yr

Overview VTG is seeking a Space Protection Operations Engineer to join the Air Force, Space, and Intelligence Business Group providing systems engineering and technical advisory services to a rapidly ...

SAIC

Space Protection Operations Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking a Space Protection Operations Engineer to join the Air Force, Space, and Intelligence Business Group providing systems engineering and technical advisory services to a ...

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Protective Operations information

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$12

$24

$38

How much do protective operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for protective operations in the United States is $24.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is protective operations?

Protective Operations refer to the specialized security services designed to safeguard individuals, such as dignitaries, executives, or other high-profile persons, from potential threats like physical harm, kidnapping, or harassment. These operations involve risk assessment, advance planning, secure transportation, and close personal protection. Personnel involved in Protective Operations are trained in threat detection, emergency response, and defensive tactics to ensure the safety of their clients in various environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in protective operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Protective Operations, you need expertise in threat assessment, physical security, defensive tactics, and often a background in law enforcement or military service. Familiarity with surveillance systems, communications equipment, and certifications such as Executive Protection or firearms training are typically required. Exceptional situational awareness, discretion, and strong decision-making under pressure distinguish top professionals in this field. These skills are critical to ensuring the safety of clients and effectively managing risks in high-stakes environments.

What are the typical challenges faced by professionals in protective operations, and how can they be managed effectively?

Professionals in Protective Operations often face challenges such as rapidly changing threat environments, high-stress situations, and the need for constant vigilance. Managing these challenges effectively requires strong situational awareness, ongoing training in defensive tactics, and excellent communication skills to coordinate with team members and clients. Building trust within the team and maintaining flexibility in operational planning are also crucial for adapting to unforeseen risks. Continual professional development and debriefings after assignments help teams refine strategies and improve future performance.

What is the difference between Protective Operations vs Security Guard?

AspectProtective OperationsSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsSecurity certifications, training in protective tacticsBasic security training, sometimes licensing
Work EnvironmentHigh-risk areas, close protection, event securityBuilding patrols, access control, surveillance
Employer & Industry UsagePrivate security firms, government agencies, corporate securityCommercial buildings, retail stores, residential complexes

Protective Operations involves specialized security tasks such as close protection and risk assessment, often requiring advanced training and certifications. Security Guards typically focus on monitoring premises and controlling access. While both roles aim to ensure safety, Protective Operations is more proactive and strategic, whereas Security Guards perform more routine security functions.

More about Protective Operations jobs

What job categories do people searching Protective Operations jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Protective Operations jobs are:

Protective Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Protective Operations job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,344 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Executive Protective Operations & Training Specialist with Security Clearance

Endurion

Washington, DC • On-site

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

This position is contingent upon contract award. Position Summary:
Upon award, this specialist will review protective operations, staffing levels, and operational readiness across assessed facilities and protective programs. The Executive Protective Operations & Training Specialist will provide expert evaluation of protective procedures, event security protocols, and training effectiveness, drawing on extensive field experience to identify operational gaps and recommend improvements that strengthen overall protective capabilities. Minimum Qualifications:
• Senior executive protection practitioner with extensive experience in protective operations and program management
• Demonstrated expertise in advance work, including site surveys, route analysis, and venue security coordination
• Proven background in protective staffing analysis and workforce optimization for security operations
• Strong operational planning skills with experience developing and implementing protective strategies
• Knowledge of training program development and evaluation for protective personnel
Key Responsibilities:
• The incumbent will conduct protective operations reviews to evaluate current practices against industry standards and best practices
• The incumbent will perform staffing and operational readiness assessments to determine adequacy of protective personnel and resources
• The incumbent will evaluate protective procedures to identify gaps, inefficiencies, and areas requiring enhancement
• The incumbent will assess travel and event security protocols to ensure comprehensive coverage and risk mitigation This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Management retains the discretion to add to or modify the duties of the position at any time. Employment with Endurion is at-will, meaning that either the employee or the employer may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or advance notice, provided it does not violate applicable law. Endurion complies with all Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) requirements. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Endurion will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at .

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