Miscellaneous First-Line Supervisors, Protective Service Workers: Salary $58,230 (2025)
First-line supervisors of protective service workers — excluding police, fire, and corrections — earn a median $58,230 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $28 per hour. The middle half of these supervisors earn between $37,590 and $96,240. With 102,170 jobs nationwide (2024 estimates), this occupation covers supervisors of security guards, crossing guards, parking enforcement officers, and similar protective service workers.
How much Miscellaneous First-Line Supervisors, Protective Service Workers earn
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $58,230 for these supervisors. That means half earn more, half earn less. The typical range stretches from $37,590 at the 10th percentile to $96,240 at the 90th. The mean (average) wage is a bit higher at $62,830, suggesting a number of high earners pull the average up. Most employees work full-time, though shift work is common since protective services run 24/7.
Pay can vary based on industry. Supervisors in building and dwelling services (e.g., security guard companies) tend toward the middle of the range, while those in government or large facilities often land near the top. Experience and the number of workers supervised also influence pay.
- Median: $58,230
- 10th percentile: $37,590
- 90th percentile: $96,240
- Mean: $62,830 (approx $28/hr)
Pay by state
State-level pay data for this occupation is not available from the BLS for 2024. However, general patterns suggest that states with higher costs of living and stronger union presence (like California, New York, and Massachusetts) typically pay above the national median, while states in the South and lower-cost regions pay below. For the most accurate state-by-state figures, the BLS will release updated numbers in 2026.
How to become Miscellaneous First-Line Supervisors, Protective Service Worker
Most supervisors start as protective service workers—security guards, campus safety officers, or parking enforcement personnel. The typical path is a high school diploma plus several years of experience in the field. Some employers require an associate's or bachelor's degree in criminal justice or security management, especially for supervisory roles in high-security settings like airports or government buildings.
Key steps include:
- Get a high school diploma or GED. Most positions require it.
- Gain experience as a security guard, crossing guard, or similar role. 2–5 years is typical.
- Complete on-the-job supervisory training or an employer-provided leadership program.
- Optional: earn security certifications like Certified Protection Professional (CPP) or Physical Security Professional (PSP) from ASIS International to boost advancement.
- In some states, private security supervisors need a license. Check your state's board or the Bureau of Labor Statistics for specifics.
Job outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not have a specific growth projection for this occupation between 2024 and 2034. As a rough guide, employment of security guards (the base occupation many of these supervisors come from) is projected to grow about 5% over the decade, about as fast as average. Replacement needs due to turnover—a common feature in protective services—will create many job openings. Opportunities should be best for those with supervisory experience and relevant certifications.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Miscellaneous First-Line Supervisor of Protective Service Workers do?
They directly supervise security guards, crossing guards, parking enforcement officers, and other protective service workers who are not police, fire, or corrections. Duties include scheduling, training, monitoring performance, and ensuring safety protocols are followed.
What is the highest-paying state for this job?
The BLS does not provide state-level pay for this occupation in 2024. Generally, high-cost states like California, New York, and Massachusetts tend to pay above the median, but no specific rank is available.
Do these supervisors need a degree?
Many require only a high school diploma and several years of experience. However, some employers in high-security settings (e.g., airports, casinos) may prefer an associate's or bachelor's degree in criminal justice or security management.
Is the job stressful?
It can be, as supervisors are responsible for the safety of people and property. They may work evenings, weekends, and holidays. Dealing with security incidents and managing a team adds pressure.
Where do they typically work?
In office buildings, shopping centers, schools, hospitals, airports, casinos, and other facilities that employ contract or in-house security. Many work for security guard services or direct facility management.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Miscellaneous First-Line Supervisors, Protective Service Workers data.