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Security Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

$109K - $203K/yr

Policy Development & Implementation Draft, update, and enforce security operating policies for simulator facilities, fighter squadrons, and Special Access Program (SAP) sites supporting F35 ...

Join PalAmerican Security, a growing security company operating in over 16 states, specializing in security solutions for various facilities. As an Unarmed Security Guard, you will play a crucial ...

Security Officer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$22 - $22.50/hr

Join PalAmerican Security, a growing security company operating in over 16 states, specializing in security solutions for various facilities. As an Unarmed Security Guard, you will play a crucial ...

Security Guard

Waddell, AZ · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Join PalAmerican Security, a growing security company operating in 44 states, specializing in security solutions for various facilities. As an Unarmed Security Guard, you will play a crucial role in ...

Join PalAmerican Security, a growing security company operating in 44 states, specializing in security solutions for various facilities. As an Unarmed Security Guard, you will play a crucial role in ...

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Showing results 1-20

Security Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$7

$18

$26

How much do security operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for security operator in Arizona is $18.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a security operator?

A Security Operator is a professional responsible for monitoring and protecting an organization's assets, people, and information from security threats. Their duties often include surveillance, responding to alarms or incidents, and coordinating with emergency services if necessary. Security Operators may work in control rooms, using technology such as CCTV, access control systems, and communication tools to maintain situational awareness. They play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of facilities, employees, and visitors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a security operator?

To thrive as a Security Operator, you need a solid understanding of security protocols, surveillance techniques, and incident response, often backed by relevant certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or SIA licensing. Familiarity with security monitoring systems, CCTV, access control software, and incident reporting tools is typically required. Attention to detail, composure under pressure, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are critical to swiftly detecting and managing security threats, ensuring the safety of people and property.

What are some typical challenges security operators face during their shifts, and how are they addressed?

Security Operators often encounter challenges such as responding to simultaneous security alerts, managing access control for multiple sites, and maintaining clear communication during high-pressure incidents. To address these challenges, operators rely on well-defined protocols, regular training, and close collaboration with on-site security teams. Utilizing advanced security monitoring systems and maintaining detailed incident logs also help ensure efficient response and continuous improvement.

What is the difference between Security Operator vs Security Guard?

AspectSecurity OperatorSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsSecurity license, training certificationsSecurity license, basic training
Work EnvironmentMonitoring systems, patrolling, access controlPatrolling premises, guarding property
Employer & Industry UsageSecurity companies, corporate facilitiesRetail stores, malls, private properties
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Security Operators typically focus on monitoring security systems and controlling access, requiring specialized training. Security Guards often perform patrols and physical guarding duties. Both roles require security licenses and are employed in similar environments, but Security Operators tend to work more with technology-based security measures.

Infographic showing various Security Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,435 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

$109K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead site activation, integration, and sustainment activities to ensure compliance with security standards and oversee construction and accreditation of F35 facilities.

  • Direct, coach, and mentor a security team of over 30 personnel, including recruiting, onboarding, and ongoing development.

  • Collaborate with government security teams and oversee multidisciplinary security functions such as Personnel Security, Operational Security, Physical Security, and Security Education, Training & Awareness.


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 397 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

F-35 Site Security Manager / Contractor SAP Security Officer (CSSO) Seeking a skilled and motivated security manager with strong Special Access Program (SAP) experience and knowledge to serve as Site Security Manager and Contractor SAP Security Officer (CSSO). This position is located at Luke AFB, Arizona, supporting the F35 sustainment program. The successful candidate will operate in a SAP environment to ensure that security policies and procedures align with contractor statements of work, lineitem specifications, Department of War (DoW) directives and manuals, Standard Operating Procedures, and local guidelines.

Acting as the focal point for all security matters related to F35 sustainment operations, the incumbent will drive compliance, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement across the program. The selected candidate will be leading a large team of security professionals and working in a very exciting and dynamic environment. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Team Development Direct, coach, and mentor a program security workforce of 30+ individual contributors and two firstline supervisors.

Recruit, onboard, and continuously develop security personnel to sustain the F35 security mission. Government & Stakeholder Collaboration Partner with government security teams to elevate the overall F35 security posture. Provide oversight for multidisciplinary security functions, including Personnel Security (PERSEC), Operational Security (OPSEC), Physical Security (PHYSEC), and Security Education, Training & Awareness (SETA).

Site Activation & Sustainment Lead site activation, integration, and sustainment activities, ensuring compliance with DoD Manual5205.07 and ICD705. Oversee construction and accreditation of DoW F35 facilities. Policy Development & Implementation Draft, update, and enforce security operating policies for simulator facilities, fighter squadrons, and Special Access Program (SAP) sites supporting F35 operations

External Relations & Customer Management Establish and maintain productive relationships with geographically dispersed customers and key stakeholders. Financial Stewardship Ensure fiscally responsible decisions that align with program objectives and budgetary constraints. Escorting & Access Control Coordinate cleared and uncleared escort procedures, guaranteeing compliance with clearance requirements.

Compliance & Inspection Prepare for and support selfinspection activities. Conduct preliminary investigations of security incidents. Verify that facility requirements meet accreditation standards (ICD705).

RiskBased Business Solutions Apply businessoriented, riskmanaged approaches to security challenges; communicate findings and recommendations to senior leadership and enterprise partners. Clearance Requirement Must obtain and maintain a TopSecret clearance with SCI access after appointment, as required by mission needs. Additional Duties Perform other related tasks as assigned to support the F35 program's security objectives.

Basic Qualifications 1. Secret Clearance with Investigation or CV Date within 5 years. 2.

Ability to obtain Top Secret Clearance in the future to meet mission requirements. 3. Must be able to obtain and maintain Special Access Programs (SAP) Access.

4. Extensive experience providing security support in a special access program environment. 5.

Knowledge of DoD SAP Manuals and ICD-705. 6. Excellent written and oral communications skills.

7. Ability to multi-task. 8.

Ability to be flexible and deal with constantly changing program requirements. 9. Experience leading/managing people, teams and resources.

Desired Skills 1. Prior L-Code Manager experience in a Lockheed Martin Security environment (F35 L-code experience a plus). 2.

Knowledge of F-35 Program Security requirements. 3. Experience as a Contractor Program Security Officer (CPSO), assistant CPSO, or government Program Security Officer (PSO).

Pay Information Full-Time Salary Range: $109700.00 - $203700.00 At Lockheed Martin, we know mission success starts with taking care of our people. Our Total Rewards program is designed to attract top talent, support your well-being, and help you grow-both professionally and personally. The salary range for this position is as listed on the requisition

Please note that the salary information listed is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market(work location) and business considerations when extending an offer. Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible work arrangements and schedules (e.g., 4x10), 401(k) match, Paid time off, Holidays, Parental Leave, EAP, Flexible Spending Accounts, Education Assistance, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability

Annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs may be offered depending on the position. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and can vary from year to year and are tied to a range of performance metrics. For (Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays.

Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.


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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912