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Protective Services Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Novant Health

Protective Services - Officer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

As a Protective Services Officer, you will: * Respond to emergency calls for assistance and ensure rapid, professional incident resolution. * Monitor behavioral health units and provide direct ...

Novant Health

Protective Services - Officer

Winston Salem, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

As a Protective Services Officer, you will: * Respond to emergency calls for assistance and ensure rapid, professional incident resolution. * Monitor behavioral health units and provide direct ...

Bon Secours

Protective Services Officer Unarmed

Kilmarnock, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Protective Services officers are assigned to an area and respond to radio and/or telephone calls for routine and/or emergency assistance. Essential Job Functions * Protects patients, visitors and ...

Bon Secours

Protective Services Officer Unarmed

Kilmarnock, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Protective Services officers are assigned to an area and respond to radio and/or telephone calls for routine and/or emergency assistance. Essential Job Functions * Protects patients, visitors and ...

Ohio Health

Protective Services Officer Armed

Van Wert, OH · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Each Security/Protective Services Officer must maintain a level of fitness which will allow him/her to respond fully to strenuous and or critical physical activity. Takes lead on special projects as ...

OhioHealth

Protective Services Officer Armed

Van Wert, OH · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Each Security/Protective Services Officer must maintain a level of fitness which will allow him/her to respond fully to strenuous and or critical physical activity. Takes lead on special projects as ...

OhioHealth

Protective Services Officer Armed

Van Wert, OH · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Each Security/Protective Services Officer must maintain a level of fitness which will allow him/her to respond fully to strenuous and or critical physical activity. Takes lead on special projects as ...

OhioHealth

Protective Services Officer Armed

Van Wert, OH

$16 - $20.25/hr

Each Security/Protective Services Officer must maintain a level of fitness which will allow him/her to respond fully to strenuous and or critical physical activity. Takes lead on special projects as ...

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Protective Services Officer information

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$27.5K

$64K

$155K

How much do protective services officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for protective services officer in the United States is $63,996.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $82,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectProtective Services OfficerSecurity Guard
Required credentialsSecurity license, training in conflict resolutionSecurity license, basic training
Work environmentPublic spaces, transport hubs, government facilitiesPrivate properties, retail stores, events
Employer & industry usageGovernment agencies, public safety rolesPrivate security companies, commercial settings

Protective Services Officers and Security Guards both hold security licenses and work in safety roles, but Protective Services Officers typically serve in public and government environments with a focus on public safety, whereas Security Guards often work in private settings. The roles overlap in credentials and basic duties, but their work environments and employer types differ.

What are protective services occupations?

Protective services occupations include roles such as Protective Services Officers, security guards, law enforcement officers, and security personnel who are responsible for safeguarding people, property, and assets. These jobs often require security training, certifications, and the ability to respond to emergencies in various environments.

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

To thrive as a Protective Services Officer, you need a background in law enforcement or security, strong situational awareness, and typically a relevant certification or completion of police/security training. Familiarity with surveillance systems, communication devices, and incident reporting software is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you handle challenging situations and interact effectively with the public. These skills are vital for ensuring safety, preventing incidents, and responding effectively to emergencies in a variety of environments.

How do I become a protective services officer?

To become a protective services officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks, and complete specialized training provided by the hiring agency. Some positions may require prior security or law enforcement experience, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects.

What is the easiest security job to get?

The easiest security job to get is often a security guard position that requires minimal experience and training. Entry-level roles typically involve basic surveillance, access control, and patrolling, and may only require a high school diploma and a security license or certification. These positions usually have less strict requirements and higher turnover, making them more accessible for new applicants.

What are Protective Services Officers?

Protective Services Officers (PSOs) are law enforcement professionals responsible for ensuring the safety and security of people, property, and critical infrastructure. They often work in locations such as government buildings, public transport hubs, and courts, performing duties like patrolling, monitoring surveillance equipment, responding to incidents, and assisting the public. PSOs are trained in conflict resolution, emergency response, and law enforcement procedures, and they work closely with police and other emergency services. Their role is vital in maintaining public order and preventing crime in the areas they are assigned.

What degree do I need for FPS jobs?

Protective Services Officers typically do not require a specific degree but often benefit from a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant skills such as security training, certifications, and physical fitness are important, and some positions may prefer or require post-secondary education in criminal justice or related fields.

What Is a Protective Services Officer?

A protective services officer is a federal employee who provides security to places like federal courtrooms and office buildings. Your primary duties are to conduct searches of all people who enter a federal building, oversee surveillance systems, gather information, work to preempt crime, and conduct criminal investigations when necessary. You may also provide outreach and training for other officers or the general public. A career as a federal protective service (FPS) officer requires you have some postsecondary education and experience, such as an associate or bachelor’s degree in criminology, law, or a related field. You must also pass a federal background check.

How do Protective Services Officers typically collaborate with local law enforcement agencies during incidents?

Protective Services Officers (PSOs) frequently work alongside local law enforcement, especially during emergencies or public safety incidents. They coordinate efforts by sharing information, following established protocols for incident response, and sometimes assisting in crowd control or initial investigations until police arrive. PSOs are trained to communicate clearly and efficiently with other agencies, ensuring seamless support and maintaining public safety. This collaborative approach is essential for effective incident management and the protection of people and property.
More about Protective Services Officer jobs
What cities are hiring for Protective Services Officer jobs? Cities with the most Protective Services Officer job openings:
What states have the most Protective Services Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Protective Services Officer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Protective Services Officer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Protective Services Officer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Protective Services Officer jobs? For Protective Services Officer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Protective Services Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Protective Services Officer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,996 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Protective Services Officer

Georgia Ports Authority

Savannah, GA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

JOB INFORMATION:
Job Title: Protective Services Officer
Location(s): Terminal as assigned
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
JOB OVERVIEW:
Under the supervision of the On-Duty Shift Supervisor, the Protective Services Officer (PSO) controls traffic gates, directs motor vehicle traffic and motorized heavy equipment, checks proper authorization and identification of all cargo, property, or persons entering or exiting the terminal. Redirects or interdicts unauthorized persons or vehicles off or away from the facility. Monitors, manipulates cameras and surveillance equipment; alerts and communicates with GPA police, or other departments through computers, radio equipment or other electronic devices.
Upholds the values of the GPA to promote Safety, Integrity, Respect, Community, Creativity and Opportunity. Promotes a safe work environment by participating in safety initiatives and reporting unsafe conditions and behaviors.
JOB DUTIES:
  • Directs and controls motor vehicle and / or pedestrian traffic at all gates, employee turnstiles, building and facility access points and maintains accurate electronic or handwritten records of all activity.
  • Performs identification checks and maintains positive control of assigned access points.
  • Monitors the facility for unusual activity and unauthorized entry and communicates observations to GPA Police Dispatch and other response personnel through the use of assigned radio equipment.
  • Performs reasonable examinations (screenings) of persons, cargo, vehicles and baggage for the detection and to prevent the introduction of certain dangerous substances or devices, or other items that pose a real danger of violence or a threat to security of persons or the facility, in accordance with MTSA regulations and GPA approved Facility Security Plan (FSP).
  • Keeps work areas safe and clean.
  • Must be proficient in the detection, identification and isolation of prohibited objects or contraband found in violation of federal or state law, MTSA compliance, Department of Homeland Security or Georgia Ports Authority rules and regulations.
  • Communicate effectively and professionally with co-workers and the public. Maintain a professional appearance and attitude while providing helpful service to port users.
  • Provides vessel crew member transport through the facility as needed.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
Able to effectively articulate facts, alarms, intrusion alerts, observations or incidences orally, through written reports, radio or other electronic media.Must have legible handwriting; able to type and work computerized word processing and scanning equipment; able to compare, discriminate, articulate and formulate information accurately, and arrive at sound and reasonable decisions able to give instructions and information clearly, decisively, and concisely; must be able to remain composed and conduct behavior in a professional manner during difficult or stressful situations.Must be able to tolerate extended exposure to dust, dirt, vehicle emissions, loud noises associated with traffic or heavy industrial environment, inclement weather and seasonal temperature variances and extremes.Must be able to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time.Must be able to work rotating shifts, holidays, and weekends. Ability to deal effectively and professionally with others.
Education
  • Required High School Diploma or equivalent

    • Licenses & Certifications
  • TWIC - Transportation Worker Identification Credential Required
  • Driver's License - Valid state driver's license Required

    • Note: This job description is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, job requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. Management reserves the right to revise the job or to require the performance of different or additional tasks. The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, an without direct threat to the health or safety of others.
    Revised: 1/19/2024
    Mission: To empower entrepreneurs, strengthen industries, sustain communities, and fortify families by relentlessly striving to accelerate global commerce.

    Apply