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Security Contractor Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

High school diploma or equivalency certificate * 8+ years of experience in the military, law enforcement, overseas security contracting, or advanced corporate security * 2+ years of executive ...

High school diploma or equivalency certificate * 8+ years of experience in the military, law enforcement, overseas security contracting, or advanced corporate security * 2+ years of executive ...

... contractors. We are growing our federal presales engineering team and looking for technically ... As a security engineer on our team, you'll evaluate and support the documentation, validation ...

Coordinate contractor personnel security actions, including clearance verification, access requests, onboarding, indoctrination support, debriefing coordination, and access termination. * Process and ...

... contractors. We are growing our federal presales engineering team and looking for technically ... As a security engineer on our team, you'll evaluate and support the documentation, validation ...

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Security Contractor information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$27

$54

How much do security contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for security contractor in Reston, VA is $27.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a security contractor?

Security contractors are professionals or companies hired to provide security services, often for private entities, corporations, or government agencies. Their duties can include protecting property, people, and assets, as well as risk assessment, surveillance, and sometimes armed protection. Security contractors may work domestically or internationally, and their roles can range from basic security guard services to specialized tasks such as executive protection or supporting military operations. They typically require specific training, certifications, and sometimes licenses depending on the region and nature of their work.

What is the difference between Security Contractor vs Security Guard?

AspectSecurity ContractorSecurity Guard
CredentialsVaries; often includes security licenses, specialized trainingTypically requires security guard license or certification
Work EnvironmentContract-based, often on multiple sites, flexible hoursOn-site at specific locations like buildings, events, or premises
Employer & Industry UsageHired by companies or agencies for specific projectsEmployed by security companies or directly by property owners

Security Contractors usually operate on a contractual basis, providing specialized or temporary security services across various locations. Security Guards are typically employed to monitor and protect specific premises regularly. Both roles require security licenses but differ mainly in work scope and employment structure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a security contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Security Contractor, you need expertise in risk assessment, surveillance, and security protocols, often supported by a background in law enforcement, military service, or security certification. Familiarity with security technologies like CCTV, access control systems, and incident management software is typically required. Excellent situational awareness, problem-solving ability, and strong communication skills distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively protecting assets, responding to threats, and maintaining safety in diverse environments.

What are some common challenges security contractors face when working on assignment?

Security Contractors often operate in high-pressure environments where they must quickly adapt to changing risks and protocols. They may encounter challenges such as unclear client expectations, rapidly evolving security threats, and the need to coordinate with multiple stakeholders, including local authorities and other security personnel. Effective communication and situational awareness are crucial for managing these challenges. Additionally, Security Contractors may need to balance strict adherence to security procedures with the flexibility to respond to unexpected situations on the ground.

What does a security contractor do?

A security contractor is a highly-trained, private security professional. Their job is to protect valuable assets, such as infrastructure or people who are in high-risk situations. They often work in war zones or areas that commonly experience conflict. If they contract with the military, their primary duties include making threat assessments, briefing other contractors, coordinating security operations, or providing physical security for civilians, diplomats, or other potential targets, or providing security for important infrastructures, such as pipelines. A security contractor may also perform security work for corporate executives, celebrities, or other VIPs.

What are popular job titles related to Security Contractor jobs in Reston, VA? For Security Contractor jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Security Contractor jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Security Contractor job openings:
Infographic showing various Security Contractor job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,217 per year, or $27 per hour.

Physical Security Specialist

SpaceX

Washington, DC • On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

PHYSICAL SECURITY SPECIALIST

Physical Security Specialists are highly experienced and adaptable security professionals who operate with significant autonomy in dynamic, high-threat environments. This position is responsible for providing advanced protective and operational support across SpaceX facilities and executive movements. Specialists are expected to operate as an individual or small team, make independent decisions in the field, and deliver executive-level protection while conducting reconnaissance, counter-surveillance, and border proximity security operations. This position requires a flexible schedule driven by threat trends and company commitments rather than fixed shifts.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Conduct executive protection operations and provide close protection for senior leadership as required
  • Perform reconnaissance and counter-surveillance in support of executive movements and threat mitigation
  • Lead small teams during operations while also demonstrating the ability to work independently and make sound decisions with limited oversight
  • Support the planning and execution of security for large-scale company events
  • Conduct advanced risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for critical assets and personnel
  • Maintain proficiency in advanced protective tactics, surveillance detection, mobile operations and emergency medicine
  • Serve as a liaison with law enforcement agencies and key stakeholders
  • Respond to and manage incidents with professionalism and sound judgment
  • Operate small utility vehicles, drones and watercraft

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 8+ years of experience in the military, law enforcement, overseas security contracting, or advanced corporate security
  • 2+ years of executive protection, mobile asset protection, or emergency response team experience

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor's or advanced degree
  • Certified Peace Officer
  • Advanced Unit Operations or SWAT certification
  • HR218 credentials (or equivalent authorization) permitting the carrying of firearms in all United States jurisdictions
  • Combat medic, EMT-B, paramedic, or advanced medical emergency training (TCCC/TECC)
  • Experience conducting executive protection
  • Experience planning security for large-scale events
  • Experience conducting reconnaissance and counter-surveillance operations
  • Experience de-escalating disputes and manage conflict professionally
  • Experience instructing security tactics, operations, and procedures
  • Documented small unit leadership or team management experience
  • Military deployment and/or counterinsurgency experience
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to interface effectively with executives
  • Foreign language proficiency (Spanish)

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Willingness to travel on short notice (up to 30% of the time)
  • Ability to effectively operate in extreme outdoor environments
  • Ability and willingness to occasionally stand in a static position for extended periods
  • Ability to work extended hours and a flexible schedule driven by operational needs and threat trends, including nights, weekends, and short-notice travel
  • Position is subject to random drug and alcohol testing
  • Position is subject to pre-employment enhanced screening, including a background check, psychological test, bi-annual physical fitness test, and a drug and alcohol test
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to obtain and maintain an FAA Part 107 Drone license
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Level III Commissioned Security Officer license and Level IV Personal Protection Officer license
  • Possess or eligible for a valid state security officer license
  • Eligible for a US Government security clearance

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 1: $80,000.00 - $95,000.00
Level 2: $95,000.00 - $120,000.00

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.


What SpaceX employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US