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$29K

$56.6K

$100.5K

How much do protective service officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for protective service officer in the United States is $56,584.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Protective Service Officer, you need a solid understanding of security procedures, risk assessment, and incident response, often backed by relevant law enforcement or security qualifications. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control technology, and, in some regions, specific certifications in security operations are commonly required. Strong situational awareness, communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring the safety of people and property while responding effectively to potential threats.

What are Protective Service Officers?

Protective Service Officers (PSOs) are law enforcement personnel who are primarily responsible for providing security and protection for people, places, and assets. Their duties often include patrolling designated areas, monitoring security systems, performing access control, and responding to incidents or emergencies. PSOs may work for government agencies, critical infrastructure sites, or private organizations, ensuring the safety of employees, visitors, and property. They receive specialized training in security procedures, conflict management, and emergency response. The specific responsibilities and authority of a PSO can vary depending on their employer and jurisdiction.

What are the most common challenges faced by Protective Service Officers, and how can they effectively manage them?

Protective Service Officers often encounter challenges such as remaining vigilant during long shifts, effectively de-escalating tense situations, and adapting to rapidly changing security threats. These professionals can manage these challenges through regular training in situational awareness, strong communication skills, and teamwork. Many organizations provide ongoing support and resources, including mental health services and refresher courses, to ensure officers remain resilient and prepared for the demands of the role.

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

AspectProtective Service OfficerSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsSecurity license, training in public safetySecurity license, basic training
Work EnvironmentPublic spaces, government facilities, eventsPrivate properties, retail stores, offices
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, public safety sectorsPrivate security companies, businesses

Protective Service Officers and Security Guards both ensure safety but differ mainly in their work environments and employer types. Protective Service Officers typically work in public spaces or government facilities, requiring specific public safety training, while Security Guards often operate in private settings. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Protective Service Officer jobs
What cities are hiring for Protective Service Officer jobs? Cities with the most Protective Service Officer job openings:
What states have the most Protective Service Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Protective Service Officer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Protective Service Officer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Protective Service Officer jobs are:
Protective Service Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Protective Service Officer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,584 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Protective Service Officer

Diversified Protection Corporation

Albuquerque, NM

$27.79/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Protective Service Officer

Protective Security Officer

Pay Rate: $27.79 per hour

Objective

This position is under the direct supervision of the captain and is responsible for the protection, safeguarding, and security of assets, personnel, customers, and all visitors.

Essential Functions

Read and understand the English language to effectively carry out applied printed rules, detailed orders, instructions, and training materials. Have a command of both the written and spoken English language to properly communicate in person or via electronic devices (telephone and radio) with co-workers and the general public. Maintaining a professional, tactful and courteous demeanor under stressful situations security personnel routinely encounter. Be able to compose precise short paragraphs, written reports, and other reports in English as necessary.

Job Duties

Performs security patrols.

Enforces access control procedures.

Protects property from theft, embezzlement, sabotage, fire, and accidents.

Investigates and write reports on accidents, incidents, suspicious activities, safety and fire hazards, and other security-related situations.

Assist customers, employees, and visitors in following the department's procedures.

May perform other related duties as assigned by the Project Manager.

Candidate Qualifications:

Must be a Lawful Permanent Resident who is currently a member of, or who possesses a verifiable honorable discharge from, any component of the United States Armed Forces OR a U.S. Citizen

Must have been issued a Social Security Card by the Social Security Administration

Must be 21 years of age

Must be a high school/GED graduate

Must have one of the following:

2 years of armed security experience or law enforcement OR

2 years of military service (active duty or reserve) with an honorable discharge

Previous experience as a supervisor is preferred

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:

The applicant must submit to a pre-employment medical exam and drug screening.

The applicant must be able to pass an NLIC / State / Local Background check and Credit check (as applicable).

Favorable FPS Fitness Determination (Suitability)

State License

40-Hour Initial Weapons

36-Hour Basic Training

Tri-Annual Refresher Training

MEB

OC

First Aid, CPR, AED

FPS Orientation

FPS NWDTP

FPS Firearms Qualification


Diversified Protection Corporation

Diversified Protection Corporation (DPC) is a trusted provider of integrated security solutions for private and public entities. We offer a full spectrum of services from training and risk assessments to armed security guards. As a company with two decades of experience, our clients include the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Protective Services (DHS/FPS); Department of Defense, Pentagon Force Protection Agency (DoD/PFPA), Department of the Army and Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DoS/DS) National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Energy (DOE).