If you’ve been considering a career shift or are looking to start your professional journey in a field that’s growing, versatile, and deeply impactful—private security in Virginia may be exactly what you’re looking for.
A Field That’s More Than Just a Job
Private security is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Virginia’s workforce. With rising concerns around safety, asset protection, and compliance, businesses, private citizens, and government entities are relying more than ever on trained professionals to safeguard their people and property.
But this isn’t just about standing post or watching surveillance footage—private security in Virginia is a multi-faceted industry filled with specialized roles that offer stability, professional growth, and meaningful work. Whether you’re transitioning from the military, a veteran law enforcement officer, or just someone seeking a new career path, there’s a place for you in this field.
Diverse Opportunities with Competitive Pay
Virginia offers an expansive range of positions within private security—each with its own unique responsibilities and compensation levels. Here’s a glimpse at some of the most in-demand roles:
- Security Officers: These frontline professionals are earning an average of $17.50 per hour, with strong potential for advancement. Whether unarmed or with additional credentials, these roles are often the entry point into the industry.
- Private Investigators: Making approximately $26.50 per hour, licensed PIs in Virginia conduct everything from surveillance to background checks and fraud investigations. It’s a perfect fit for detail-oriented individuals.
- Special Conservators of the Peace (SCOP): With authority granted through the courts, SCOPs earn between $22 and $30 an hour, bridging the gap between law enforcement and private security.
- Firearms and General Instructors: These instructors train the next generation of security professionals, making $28–$36 per hour. If you enjoy teaching and have the credentials, this is a high-value role.
- Locksmiths: Providing specialized services in physical security, locksmiths in Virginia average $25–$28 per hour.
- Electronic Security Technicians & Sales: Whether installing systems or guiding customers, these positions average $26.38 per hour, with sales roles offering high commission incentives.
- Personal Protection Specialists (PPS): Earning close to $41 an hour, PPS operatives work dignitary protection and high-profile client security—ideal for veterans or tactically trained personnel.
- Bail Bondsmen and Bail Enforcement Agents: Bondsmen are making upwards of $68,000 per year, and while enforcement earnings vary, the role is adventurous and performance-based.
A Career with Purpose and Potential
What sets private security apart in Virginia is the real sense of purpose behind the profession. Whether you’re responding to a threat, preventing a crime, training a new officer, or tracking down a fugitive—every role contributes to public safety and peace of mind.
More importantly, many of these positions are stepping stones into higher-paying, specialized roles or even law enforcement careers. With the right certifications and guidance, advancement opportunities are vast.
Commonwealth Criminal Justice Academy: Your Gateway to a Career in Security
Getting started in this field doesn’t have to be complicated. At Commonwealth Criminal Justice Academy (CCJA), a DCJS-certified training school based in Virginia, we provide the hands-on, real-world instruction you need to enter and thrive in the private security industry.
CCJA offers a wide range of DCJS-approved courses, from Security Officer Core Subjects and Private Investigator training to Firearms Instructor Development and Personal Protection Specialist certifications. Whether you’re looking to fulfill basic training requirements or stack credentials for multiple career paths, our academy is ready to help you get licensed, trained, and employed.
With experienced instructors, flexible scheduling, and both classroom and scenario-based training options, Commonwealth Criminal Justice Academy stands as a leading provider for those who are serious about making security their profession.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a profession that offers real-world impact, excellent pay, upward mobility, and daily variety—private security in Virginia is calling. It’s a career for protectors, problem-solvers, and those who want to stand for something bigger than themselves.
So whether you’re 18 or 58, there’s no better time than now to step into a profession where your presence truly matters.
Start your training with Commonwealth Criminal Justice Academy. Earn your registrations. And take your place among Virginia’s trusted security professionals.