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Protective Security Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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How much do protective security jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for protective security in Washington is $19.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $20.43 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 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 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.

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. These roles typically involve monitoring premises, checking IDs, and maintaining safety, and they often do not require advanced certifications or extensive training. Prior customer service or observation skills can also help in securing these positions quickly.

Which protective security job pays the most?

In protective security, executive protection or bodyguard roles tend to offer the highest salaries, especially for those with specialized skills, experience, and certifications such as close protection training. These positions often pay more due to the high level of responsibility, risk, and the need for discretion, with some top-tier professionals earning six-figure incomes. Salaries can vary based on location, employer, and the complexity of assignments.

What are popular job titles related to Protective Security jobs in Washington?

For Protective Security jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Protective Security jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Protective Security jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Protective Security jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Protective Security job openings:

Protective Security jobs near you
Infographic showing various Protective Security job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,314 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Protective Services & Investigative Specialist with Security Clearance

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Description Are you passionate about using your law enforcement background to provide executive protection and conduct investigations? Are you searching for meaningful work in enhancing protective security at an innovative, world- renowned employer? Do you love having a daily impact on providing a safe and secure working environment for staff who make critical contributions to the Country's most challenging problems? Do you like the stability of providing services for one organization while contributing to a team of dedicated professionals with a common goal? If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL. We are seeking an experienced Protective Services Professional to provide executive protection and transportation for the Director of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, as well as visiting dignitaries. In addition to providing executive protection, you will conduct comprehensive and independent security related investigations. You will also contribute to the development and execution of essential training of a hard-working team of security managers, supervisors and officers in their mission to provide a safe and secure working environment for our nation's top scientists, engineers and analysts. Your contribution will include collaborating with the Protective Security Group's Senior Security Manager with special projects and events. As a Protective Services & Investigative Specialist... * Your primary responsibility will be to provide executive protection and transportation (utilizing APL vehicles) for the Director of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory as well as provide and coordinate protection for visiting dignitaries. This includes conducting a threat analysis for advance preparations and planning as well as creating and implementing security strategies and detailed plans that deter and mitigate threats. Develop and alter plans and routes as necessary. You will also advise the Director on potential threat assessments and necessary precautions related to travel. * You will contribute to the professionalism and integrity of APL by conducting comprehensive and impartial conduct and security related investigations including, but not limited to, policy and procedure compliance, personnel investigations, threat assessments, and criminal investigations. * You will collaborate with the training manager in the professional development of the Protective Security Group by contributing to both entry-level and in-service training activities. * You will assist the Protective Security Group's Senior Security Manager with the completion of projects and special events that take place at APL.
* You will be part of a team of security professionals who provide an enhanced armed security presence and response capability at APL properties. Qualifications You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you... * Possess a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice or other relevant academic field. Any equivalent combination of relevant education and relevant work experience may be substituted for a Bachelor's degree.
* Have a minimum of ten (10) years experience as a certified law enforcement officer for a local, state, or federal law enforcement agency with separation in good standing. * Possess or are eligible to obtain an unrestricted State of Maryland handgun permit. Also have knowledge of basic defensive tactics.
* Have past experience conducting comprehensive criminal, personnel, and/or administrative investigations. * Proven record of unblemished professional conduct and the ability to work independently and lead others. * Have strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills. Also, have a strong history of success working within a team.
* Have demonstrated an ability to provide excellent customer service; to motivate, lead and manage staff; and to effectively interact and work with all levels of Laboratory staff, sponsors, customers, as well as representatives of external organizations.
* Have a demonstrated ability to prioritize, organize, plan, problem solve, and negotiate.
* Are able to speak and write English to the level required to perform job tasks including interaction with a variety of people and preparation of written reports.
* Proficient use of computers and software to prepare reports, written communication, search databases and utilize security related software. * Have a valid state-of-residence driver's license in good standing.
* Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.
* Are able to obtain satisfactory results from a pre-employment physical exam prior to your start date.
* Able to adjust working hours to accommodate schedules and the requirements of the executive protection function. You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you... * Have past assignments and/or experience in providing executive or dignitary protection and transportation. * Have past experience as a trainer in a law enforcement or security related environment. * Have previous special weapons and tactics experience. * Have completed executive protection training. About Us Why Work at APL? The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates. At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact . The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Minimum Rate $58,700 Annually Maximum Rate $146,300 Annually

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