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Veterans Preference Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Veterans Preference information

What is veterans preference?

Veterans Preference is a policy used by the federal government and some state employers to give eligible veterans an advantage in the hiring process for certain jobs. It awards preference points to qualified veterans, often making them more competitive candidates compared to non-veterans. The goal is to recognize and reward military service by helping veterans secure civilian employment after their service. Eligibility and the amount of preference can vary based on factors like length of service, disability status, and type of discharge. Veterans should review job postings carefully, as not all positions are eligible for preference.

How does veterans preference impact the hiring process for federal government jobs?

Veterans Preference gives eligible veterans a competitive edge in the federal hiring process by awarding additional points or priority consideration during candidate evaluation. While this helps veterans stand out, it also means applicants should be prepared for structured hiring procedures, including documentation requirements to verify eligibility. Team environments are typically diverse, with veterans working alongside civilian colleagues, and there are opportunities to advance within the federal system based on performance and tenure. Understanding how Veterans Preference applies to specific job announcements and preparing all necessary paperwork can help streamline your application process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a veterans preference program manager, and why are they important?

To excel as a Veterans Preference Program Manager, you need knowledge of veterans' employment laws, human resources practices, and program administration, often supported by a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with HR information systems, applicant tracking systems, and compliance reporting tools is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and advocacy skills help you effectively support veterans and collaborate with stakeholders. These competencies ensure programs are administered fairly, veterans receive proper consideration, and organizations remain compliant with federal regulations.

What is the difference between Veterans Preference vs Civil Service Exam?

AspectVeterans PreferenceCivil Service Exam
PurposeProvides eligible veterans with preference points or hiring advantages in federal, state, or local government jobs.Assessments used to evaluate candidates' knowledge and skills for government positions.
Required CredentialsMilitary service documentation, discharge papers, and eligibility criteria.Typically requires studying for and passing a standardized exam.
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, federal agencies, or military-related roles.Varies by position but often in government offices or public sector settings.
UsageUsed as a hiring preference to give veterans an advantage during the hiring process.Used as a qualification assessment to determine candidate suitability.

Veterans Preference offers veterans an advantage in the hiring process by awarding preference points, while the Civil Service Exam evaluates candidates' skills and knowledge for government jobs. Both are integral to federal and state employment but serve different functions: one provides a hiring benefit, the other assesses qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Veterans Preference jobs in California?

For Veterans Preference jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Veterans Preference jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Veterans Preference jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Veterans Preference jobs?

Cities in California with the most Veterans Preference job openings:

Veterans Preference jobs near you
Infographic showing various Veterans Preference job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Security Specialist - Veterans Preferred

Gavin de Becker & Associates

Oxnard, CA

$100K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 26 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Monitor property, screen visitors and vendors, and control access to protected sites.

  • Coordinate and execute security plans, respond to medical emergencies, and provide physical protection and logistical support at clients' homes and during travel.

  • Survey and prepare locations prior to client arrival and document suspicious activity.

Job description

Gavin de Becker & Associates (GDBA) protects the world's most influential and at-risk public figures.  Founded in 1978 by 3-time Presidential appointee, Gavin de Becker, our firm's Protectors, Analysts, and Investigators are committed to our mission of protecting human life through the assessment, prediction, and management of violence.  

GDBA's Mission: The Safety, Privacy, and Wellbeing of our Clients 

A newly hired Protector in Malibu will earn no less than $81,000 in base earnings during their first year with GDBA. Malibu-based Protectors could earn up to $100,000 in first year earnings when accounting for prior relevant experience, GDBA Training Academy performance, and promotion opportunities. 

Your Role as a Protector: 

  • Monitor property while utilizing the tools and technology of a GDBA Command Center 
  • Screen visitors and vendors; control all access to protected site 
  • Coordinate and execute security plans and respond to medical emergencies 
  • Provide physical protection and logistical support at clients' homes and when they travel 
  • Provide secure transportation as needed 
  • Survey and prepare (advance) locations prior to arrival of client 
  • Prepare detailed documentation of suspicious activity 
  • Create and maintain readiness to meet any threat 

Who You Are: 

Veterans represent over 60% of GDBA's workforce – Military-experienced candidates are encouraged to apply. Active National Guard or Reservists: GDBA is willing and able to accommodate your drill schedules and activations. Active-duty service members are encouraged to apply within 90 days (about 3 months) of your ETS date and can attend our Essential Protector Skills Academy (EPS) while on Terminal Leave. 
Our most successful Protectors come from a variety of backgrounds and have succeeded because they communicate effectively, are physically fit, willing to learn, tell the truth, and enjoy working in a team environment.  Our promotion system is merit-based. Performance matters most, not seniority. 

Hiring Process Requirements:

  • 12-Day Introductory Training Academy in San Antonio, TX
  • Be able to pass physical readiness test (Pull-ups, Push-ups, Sit-ups, 800m run)
  • Must be able to swim
  • Must be drug and nicotine free
  • Background check required
  • Must be able to obtain appropriate state firearm and security licensing

 Best in Class 401k Retirement Plan

  • $15,000 employer contribution for First-Year Associates
  • $3,000 employer contribution each year thereafter  
  • 10% no-limit matching for all Associates who choose to contribute to their retirement plan

To learn more about earnings, promotions, benefits, and more – visit GDBA.com/careers

GDBA will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the Fair Chance laws and ordinances respective to the applicant's position; applicants are to take note, criminal background checks are required for this position, per L.A. County Code § 8.300.050; L.A. Municipal Code § 189.07 (City of Los Angeles); Bus. & Prof. Code § 7583.23 (CA Firearms Permit); 18 U.S. Code § 922 (Firearms - Federal); 34 U.S. Code § 41106 (Private Security Officers).