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Protective Security Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Protective Security Officer

Fredericksburg, VA ยท On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Protective Security Officer We are seeking highly motivated customer service individuals to join our team as a Protective Security Officer(Guard ll) for our client, The Department of Veterans Affairs ...

Protective Security Officer - Ashburn

Ashburn, VA ยท On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

The Protective Security Officer will protect federal property and employees from theft, damage, hazards, or interference. They will make periodic tours to check for irregularities and to inspect ...

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Protective Security information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do protective security jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for protective security in Virginia is $16.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $17.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is protective security?

Protective security jobs involve roles focused on safeguarding people, property, and information from threats such as theft, violence, terrorism, and cyber-attacks. Professionals in this field may work in areas like physical security (guards, surveillance), cybersecurity, risk assessment, and emergency response. They are employed by private companies, government agencies, and security firms to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Duties often include monitoring security systems, enforcing access controls, responding to incidents, and conducting security audits.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in protective security roles, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in Protective Security often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing threat environments, the need for constant vigilance, and balancing strict security protocols with maintaining a welcoming environment. Managing these challenges requires ongoing training, strong situational awareness, and effective communication with both team members and clients. Collaboration with law enforcement and other emergency services is also vital to ensure coordinated responses to incidents and to keep up to date with best practices in risk assessment and mitigation.

What is the easiest protective security job to get?

The easiest protective security jobs to obtain are often entry-level security guard positions that require minimal experience and may only need a basic security license or certification. These roles typically involve monitoring premises, controlling access, and maintaining safety, with on-the-job training provided. Having a clean background check and good communication skills can improve chances of hiring for these positions.

What is the difference between Protective Security vs Security Guard?

AspectProtective SecuritySecurity Guard
CredentialsSecurity license, training in threat assessmentSecurity license, basic security training
Work EnvironmentHigh-risk areas, event security, executive protectionBuilding patrols, access control, surveillance
Employer & IndustryPrivate security firms, government agencies, corporate clientsCommercial buildings, retail stores, residential complexes

Protective Security and Security Guards both focus on safety, but Protective Security involves higher-level threat assessment and protection, often in high-risk environments. Security Guards typically perform routine patrols and access control. While both roles require licensing, Protective Security usually demands additional training and experience, making it suitable for more specialized security tasks.

Which protective security job pays the most?

In protective security, executive protection or close protection officers tend to earn the highest salaries, especially when working for high-net-worth clients or in specialized environments. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and sometimes firearms training, and they can offer higher pay due to the level of risk and responsibility involved.

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, risk assessment, and emergency response, usually supported by relevant certifications or security licenses. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control technologies, and incident reporting tools is typically required. Strong observation skills, professionalism, and effective communication help in diffusing situations and maintaining safety. These abilities are crucial for preventing security breaches, protecting people and property, and responding effectively to threats.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Protective Security jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Protective Security job openings:
Infographic showing various Protective Security 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 $35,289 per year, or $17 per hour.

Protective Security Officer

FEBA, Inc.

Fredericksburg, VA โ€ข On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Protective Security Officer

We are seeking highly motivated customer service individuals to join our team as a Protective Security Officer(Guard ll) for our client, The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Strategic Acquisition Center (SAC) in Fredericksburg, VA.

The primary responsibility of the Armed Security Guard is to provide protection for the tenant agency employees, the general public visiting the SAC suites, as well as personal and U.S. Government property within the confines of the post-assignment area of responsibility. Hours for this position will be Monday-Thursday from 0600- 1800, excluding Fridays and all Federal Holidays. Additional hours may be requested due to special events (i.e., open houses, recruitment fairs, etc.). This position is part-time. In this role, you shall:

Specified Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Remain alert, observe, and report immediately to the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) all violations of federal, state, or local law, Building Rules and Regulations, safety hazards, facility problems, or unusual incidents occurring on the property.
  • Perform duties in a polite and courteous manner reflecting the highest degree of professionalism expected on all VA Federal Protective Service (FPS) posts.
  • Conduct radio communications checks at the beginning of each shift.
  • Responsible for key control and carrying out procedures for the Department of Veterans Affairs Emergency Action Plan.
  • Routinely review all Department of Veterans Affairs Security Post instructions, procedures, security plans, and special instructions.
  • Be familiar with the duties of all posts and post orders prescribed. The following is a list of the Posts for FPS guards supporting the Department of Veterans Affairs: Control Desk Guard and Rover Guard.
  • Learn the identities of the Director of Contracting at each SAC location.
  • Screen ALL visitors and check for proper identification.
  • Verify the visitor's identification is current and valid.
  • Ensure the unimpeded ingress and egress of the building's employees during specific hours of operation.

Required Skills and Physical Requirements:

Ability to:

  • Interact with the public at all levels
  • Interpret rules, regulations, and policies
  • Work with minimum supervision
  • Proper use of communications equipment
  • Effectively communicate in spoken and written standard English

Qualifications

  • Must be at least 21 years old and possess a high school diploma or General Education Certificate (GED)
  • Possess good written communication skills; capable of verbal communication adequate for clearly understandable radio transmissions.
  • Demonstrated good customer relations and interaction skills.
  • Must be able to operate and work in a multi-task environment and have the ability to contribute and participate in a team environment with minimal supervision.
  • Must be of sound mind and moral character, with no felony convictions or convictions for misdemeanors involving moral turpitude, domestic violence, or workplace violence.
  • Pass a thorough background investigation.
  • Successfully complete a pre-hire drug screen and pass all random screenings.
  • Possess the required licenses, certifications, and permits.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor,


  • Workplace banking program with a national bank
  • Shift Flexibility
  • Company sponsored events
  • Industry training
  • Growth opportunities