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Protective Security Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Constellis

Protective Security Officer

Detroit, MI

$18/hr

Protective Security Officer As a Protective Security Officer (PSO) serving on a Federal Government contract, you will be responsible for maintaining security, enforcing regulations, and ensuring the ...

GXC Inc

UNARMED PROTECTIVE SECURITY OFFICER

New York, NY · On-site

$22/hr

GXC offers the full spectrum of professional security services, focusing on Armed and Unarmed Protective Security Officer Services, Screening Services, Patrol and Response, Metal Detector and X-Ray ...

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Protective Security Officer information

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$11

$17

$22

How much do protective security officer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for protective security officer in the United States is $17.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Protective Security Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Protective Security Officer, you need a solid understanding of security protocols, threat assessment, and emergency response, typically supported by relevant security certifications or law enforcement/military experience. Familiarity with security surveillance systems, access control technologies, and incident reporting software is commonly required. Strong observational skills, sound judgment, and effective communication are essential soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies are critical to ensure the safety of people and property, respond promptly to incidents, and maintain a secure environment.

How to become a protective security officer?

To become a protective security officer, candidates typically need to be at least 18 years old, pass a background check, and complete required training such as a security guard license or certification. Many employers also prefer candidates with good communication skills, a clean criminal record, and sometimes prior experience in security or law enforcement.

What qualifications do I need to be a security guard?

To become a Protective Security Officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid security license or registration as required by local regulations, and may need to complete specific training or certification programs. Good communication skills, the ability to remain alert, and a clean background check are also important qualifications for the role.

What is the highest paying security officer job?

The highest paying security officer roles are often executive protection or close protection officers, who provide security for high-profile individuals and may earn six-figure salaries. These positions typically require specialized training, experience, and sometimes advanced certifications such as CPP or PSP, and often involve working in high-stakes environments or international locations.

What is the difference between Protective Security Officer vs Security Guard?

AspectProtective Security OfficerSecurity Guard
CertificationsSecurity license, possibly specialized trainingSecurity license, basic training
Work EnvironmentHigh-security facilities, events, corporate sitesRetail stores, malls, small businesses
Employer & IndustrySecurity firms, government, corporate clientsPrivate businesses, retail, residential

Protective Security Officers and Security Guards both work in security roles, but Protective Security Officers often handle higher-risk environments and may require specialized training. They focus on protecting people and property in more sensitive settings, whereas Security Guards typically monitor premises and prevent theft in retail or commercial locations. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right security career path or job application.

Why do people quit security jobs?

People often leave security jobs due to low pay, irregular or long hours, and limited opportunities for advancement. Additionally, the physically demanding nature of the work and sometimes challenging work environments contribute to high turnover rates among security officers.

What are Protective Security Officers?

Protective Security Officers are professionals responsible for safeguarding people, property, and information by monitoring premises, controlling access, and responding to security incidents. They may work for government agencies, private companies, or contracted security firms, and their duties often include patrolling assigned areas, enforcing security protocols, and assisting in emergency situations. These officers play a critical role in deterring criminal activity and ensuring the safety and security of an organization’s assets and personnel.

What are the typical challenges faced by Protective Security Officers during their shifts?

Protective Security Officers often encounter varied challenges, including maintaining vigilance during long or irregular shifts, quickly responding to security incidents, and effectively communicating with both the public and law enforcement. They must balance assertiveness with professionalism when handling potentially confrontational situations, while adhering to strict protocols and safety procedures. Additionally, adapting to different environments—such as corporate offices, government buildings, or event venues—requires flexibility and strong situational awareness.
More about Protective Security Officer jobs
What cities are hiring for Protective Security Officer jobs? Cities with the most Protective Security Officer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Protective Security Officer jobs? The top employers for Protective Security Officer jobs are:
What states have the most Protective Security Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Protective Security Officer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Protective Security Officer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Protective Security Officer jobs are:
Protective Security Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Protective Security Officer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,979 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Protective Security Officer

Protective Security Officer

Chenega Corporation

Lanham Seabrook, MD • On-site

$34.52/hr

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Summary

The Protective Security Officer (PSO) provides armed security services at federally protected IRS facilities in support of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Federal Protective Service (FPS). PSOs are responsible for controlling access, protecting federal personnel and property, detecting and responding to security threats, and ensuring compliance with federal regulations, post orders, and FPS standards.


Responsibilities
  • Perform access control duties by verifying identification, controlling entry and exit of personnel, visitors, vehicles, and property
  • Conduct screening operations using x-ray machines, magnetometers, hand-held detectors, and manual inspection techniques, as required
  • Perform patrol and response duties, including interior and exterior patrols, alarm response, and observation for suspicious activity
  • Operate security and safety systems such as CCTV, fire alarms, intrusion detection systems, and communication equipment
  • Process visitors by verifying identification, issuing badges, maintaining logs, and coordinating escorts
  • Identify, report, delay, or detain individuals who violate rules or pose a security risk, in accordance with post orders and applicable laws
  • Respond to emergencies including medical incidents, fire alarms, hazardous conditions, civil disturbances, and evacuations
  • Prepare accurate and timely reports, logs, and documentation, including incident and prohibited items reports
  • Maintain professional appearance, conduct, and customer service standards while representing FPS and the federal government
  • Safeguard government- and contractor-issued equipment, keys, weapons, and access devices
  • Coordinate with FPS, supervisors, and law enforcement personnel as required
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Two (2) years of armed security, law enforcement, or military experience, or qualifying education/training
  • Meets all FPS Protective Security Officer medical standard qualification requirements
  • Valid Maryland State Police Security Guard Certification
  • Active Maryland Handgun Wear and Carry Permit
  • Current Maryland State Police approved firearms training and weapons qualification
  • Must maintain a professional appearance and comply with all FPS contract uniform and grooming standards as required
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain firearms qualification and all required training certifications (CPR/AED/First Aid, FPS training, and post-specific training)
  • Must be able stand, walk, patrol, and respond to emergencies for extended periods
  • Successfully pass background and drug screening  

 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Ability to speak, read, write, and understand English fluently
  • Strong observation, communication, and decision-making skills
  • Ability to write clear, accurate, and timely reports

Physical Demands: (The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)

  • While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee may use repeated motions that include the arms, wrists, hands and/or fingers. The employee is occasionally required to walk, stand, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

Estimated Salary/Wage
Up to USD $34.52/Hr.Qualifications:
  • Two (2) years of armed security, law enforcement, or military experience, or qualifying education/training
  • Meets all FPS Protective Security Officer medical standard qualification requirements
  • Valid Maryland State Police Security Guard Certification
  • Active Maryland Handgun Wear and Carry Permit
  • Current Maryland State Police approved firearms training and weapons qualification
  • Must maintain a professional appearance and comply with all FPS contract uniform and grooming standards as required
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain firearms qualification and all required training certifications (CPR/AED/First Aid, FPS training, and post-specific training)
  • Must be able stand, walk, patrol, and respond to emergencies for extended periods
  • Successfully pass background and drug screening  

 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Ability to speak, read, write, and understand English fluently
  • Strong observation, communication, and decision-making skills
  • Ability to write clear, accurate, and timely reports

Physical Demands: (The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)

  • While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee may use repeated motions that include the arms, wrists, hands and/or fingers. The employee is occasionally required to walk, stand, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: PART_TIME

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