Security Specialist

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 Santa Barbara will earn no less than $70k in their first year with GDBA. Santa Barbara-based Protectors could earn up to $85k in first year earnings when accounting for prior relevant experience, GDBA Training Academy performance, and promotion opportunities. 

This is a full-time position with benefits, including: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and 401(k). 

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: 

Military, law enforcement, or experience in executive protection/security is meaningful, though not a requirement to become a GDBA Protector.  We’re less interested in what you are than who you are.  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.

Interested Candidates Should Expect the Following: 

• 12-Day Introductory Essential Protector Skills (EPS) Training Academy
• Professional Leadership Track (PLT) - 2‑year on-the-job executive protection training curriculum that prepares Protectors for future leadership positions at GDBA. PLT includes 500 hours of training, mentoring, instructing, and certification + 4 additional advanced executive protection/leadership training academies
• Be able to pass physical readiness test (Pull-ups, Push-ups, Sit-ups, 800m run) 
• Protectors must be drug and nicotine free 
• Able to pass a pre-employment background investigation 
• Must be able to swim 

Additional Compensation and Benefits: 

• $2k-$4k sign-on bonus 
• Gym, massage, ammunition, and cellphone reimbursements 
• $1,100 Health Savings Account (HSA) Contribution  
• Family benefits including family outing fund, active kids fund, and school supplies fund 
• Free vacations each year for 200 qualified Protectors 
• Up to $2,500 stipend for CCW Licenses  
• Up to $1,000 stipend for Special Certifications (EMT, Lifeguard, NRA, Pilot, Maritime) 

Visit our Earnings and Benefits Page to learn more about benefits, stipends, additional overtime opportunities, bonuses, travel pay, and more: https://gdba.com/earnings 

Learn more about our organization by visiting our website, following GDBA on social media, or connecting with us on LinkedIn.