1

Protective Security Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Provide armed security and access control services * Protect government property, classified materials, and assigned personnel * Monitor and control entry and exit points within secured areas

Protective Security Officers

Frederick, MD · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

REQ=NBACC200 American Security Programs is currently seeking TS/SCI Cleared Protective Service Officers in Frederick, Maryland. Minimum Qualifications: High School Diploma or General Equivalency ...

Provide armed security and access control services * Protect government property, classified materials, and assigned personnel * Monitor and control entry and exit points within secured areas

Protective Security Officer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

... provide security for the personnel and property of, and visitors to, assigned US Government Property in Philadelphia, PA and the surrounding counties. RESPONSIBILITIES * Protect personnel and ...

Provide security protection and access control. * Provide security protection for all government property, classified material and personnel within assigned areas of responsibility to preclude ...

Provide security protection and access control. * Provide security protection for all government property, classified material and personnel within assigned areas of responsibility to preclude ...

Successful completion of Protective Security Officer Training and certification. * Pass and maintain medical, and physical fitness standards. * Duties require lifting more than 10 pounds, bending ...

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 ...

Protective Security Officer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

... security for the personnel and property of, and visitors to, assignedUS Government Property in Philadelphia, PA and the surrounding counties. RESPONSIBILITIES * Protect personnel and property in a ...

... security, monitoring screens, etc. Protect personnel and property in a professional manner Meet and deal tactfully and politely with general public and visitors Effectively and efficiently screen and ...

Provide professional armed security and access control services * Safeguard government property ... Use protective equipment, including respirators if required * Availability for extended hours ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Protective Security information

See salary details

$11

$17

$21

How much do protective security jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for protective security in the United States is $17.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Which is the highest paying security job?

In protective security, executive protection or close protection officers often earn the highest salaries, especially when working for high-net-worth clients or in specialized environments. Senior security managers and security directors also tend to have higher pay due to their leadership responsibilities and experience requirements. Certifications like CPP or PSP can enhance earning potential in these roles.

What are protective security jobs?

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 degree do I need for FPS jobs?

For Federal Protective Service (FPS) jobs, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, though some positions may prefer or require a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, homeland security, or related fields. Relevant skills include security training, background checks, and sometimes specialized certifications such as CPR or first aid.

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 highest paying security guard job?

The highest paying security guard jobs are typically in executive protection or close protection roles, which involve safeguarding high-profile individuals. These positions often require specialized training, certifications, and experience, and can pay significantly more than standard security guard roles, especially when working for private clients or in high-risk environments.

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 jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In protective security, high-paying roles such as executive security directors, security consultants for large corporations, and specialized security contractors can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require advanced skills, security clearances, and management expertise.
More about Protective Security jobs
What cities are hiring for Protective Security jobs? Cities with the most Protective Security job openings:
What states have the most Protective Security jobs? States with the most job openings for Protective Security jobs include:
Infographic showing various Protective Security job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,594 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
Protective Security Officer

Protective Security Officer

Constellis

Dearborn Heights, MI • On-site

$18/hr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago


Constellis rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 108 rated security


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
As a Protective Security Officer (PSO) serving on a Federal Government contract, you will be responsible for maintaining security, enforcing regulations, and ensuring the safety of personnel and property. This position requires professionalism, vigilance, and a commitment to excellence in service. This is a post with limited available hours, maintain a high level of alertness and situational awareness at all times. Arrive on time and ready for duty, ensuring operational efficiency. Demonstrate respect, professionalism, and courtesy in all interactions. Adhere to strict grooming and uniform standards, including maintaining shined boots and a professional appearance. This is a Union position.
HOURS:
Full time shifts to include days, nights, weekends and holidays, must have open availability and able to work all assigned shifts.
PAY TRANSPARENCY / COMPENSATION:
$18.00 while in training then $32.93/hr
Health and Welfare $5.38 Cash in lieu
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Provide security protection and access control.
  • Provide security protection for all government property, classified material and personnel within assigned areas of responsibility to preclude unauthorized access, theft, or intentional destruction.
  • Report/respond to unusual or emergency situations.
  • Be alert for potential security, property or safety concerns and initiate the appropriate actions.
  • Control ingress/egress into and/or out of posted/controlled/security areas.
  • Prevent/report all violations of security and safety rules and regulations.
  • Respond to protective alarm signals or other unusual/suspicious activities.
  • Maintain a working knowledge of all security and guard orders, written and oral, pertaining to the assigned duties
  • May be subject to outdoor conditions including extreme temperatures and weather.
  • Subject to high noise levels to include gun fire, hazards including a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, exposure to high heat, extreme cold or exposure to chemicals.
  • Subject to high noise levels to include gun fire, hazards including a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, exposure to high heat, extreme cold or exposure to chemicals.
  • Heavy work: Exerting up to 200 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Must have visual and audio acuity to heavy equipment, machines such as fire equipment and apparatuses, firearms and clearing barrels. May be required to be fitted for and/or wear a respirator. Must be able to stand for extended periods of time, often without breaks, and may be required to climb stairs or ladders and walk-up inclines and on uneven terrain. Must meet all physical and psychological standards as required by the contract. Must be physically capable of standing a 12-hour post.
  • Work is typically at a federal government office that is subject to frequent interruptions with long periods of sitting, standing or walking. Extended hours to include nights, weekends and holidays may be required. May be subject to outdoor conditions including extreme temperatures and weather. Subject to high noise levels to include gun fire, hazards including a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, exposure to high heat, extreme cold or exposure to chemicals.
  • Travel may be required.
  • Extended hours to include nights, weekends and holidays may be required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident who is currently a member of, or who possesses a verifiable honorable discharge from, any component the United States Armed Forces
  • Be a minimum of 21 years of age
  • Must have a Social Security Card issued by the Social Security Administration, which bears the individuals name and social security number
  • A minimum of two (2) years of security (armed), or one (1) year of law enforcement experience in a full-duty status with a full-service police department in a municipality, state, or federal enforcement department within the US, and have resigned or retired in good standing; or a minimum of two (2) years of honorable service as a member of any US Armed Forces (Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard) Component
  • Firearms training and firearms qualifications, and company certifications meet state/federal certifications
  • Shall fluently speak, read, comprehend, and compose coherent written reports in English
  • Familiarity with securing facilities and/or vehicles at a fixed location
  • Physically capable of standing a 12-hour post
  • High School education or GED equivalent
  • Ability to pass a background investigation
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment physical exam
  • Ability to pass MRPT suitability requirements
  • Demonstrable Proficiency with a Handgun

Benefits Triple Canopy (A Constellis company) offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflects its commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Disability/Vet

What Constellis employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom