Executive Protection Driver

Cooke & Associates, Inc. is seeking an experienced Executive Protection (EP) Driver to provide secure, discreet transportation for C-suite level executives in San Francisco, California. This role requires a candidate who is physically fit and able to walk approximately 3 to 5 miles per day. Secure driving is the primary function, with a secondary executive protection component, dedicated to supporting executives day-to-day.

About the role

This position functions as a plain-clothes EP Driver responsible for the secure transport, protection, and confidentiality of the Principal. The EP Driver conducts route planning and advance work, operates a protective vehicle, maintains readiness for emergency transport and evacuation, and provides close protective coverage during movements and at designated locations. The role carries no law enforcement authority, and all actions must align with client direction, use-of-force guidelines, and escalation procedures.

Responsibilities

• Provide safe, professional, and discreet transportation for the Principal between residence, office, and other locations as required.
• Conduct pre-trip route assessments, identifying primary and alternate routes to mitigate risk.
• Conduct route surveillance, counter-surveillance, and advance sweeps of destinations as required.
• Maintain constant readiness for emergency transport and evacuation scenarios.
• Maintain a protective presence for the Principal while in transit and at designated locations.
• Maintain situational awareness and proactively identify potential security risks during all movements.
• Respond calmly and effectively to security incidents, accidents, or emergencies while prioritizing the safety of the Principal.
• Conduct daily vehicle inspections and coordinate maintenance and refueling to ensure the vehicle is operational, clean, and secure at all times.
• Coordinate with the corporate security team, executive assistants, and emergency response units through secure communication.
• Provide real-time updates on travel progress, delays, or security concerns to relevant stakeholders.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding the Principal's movements, discussions, and sensitive information at all times.
• Submit accurate activity reports and incident documentation as required.

Requirements

• Valid California BSIS Guard Card, Exposed Firearm Permit, and California CCW, valid and current at time of hire and throughout employment. HR218 credentials are not accepted.
• Valid California driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Must be at least 21 years of age and not prohibited from possessing or carrying a firearm.
• Demonstrated defensive and evasive driving ability.
• Current First Aid, CPR, and AED certification.
• Ability to successfully complete a tactical medicine and driving course within the first six (6) months of employment.
• Professional experience in executive protection, corporate or private security, or professional protective driving.
• Strong situational awareness, risk assessment, and crisis response ability.
• Ability to de-escalate conflicts and manage high-stress confrontations while maintaining composure.
• Proficiency with secure communication technology, GPS navigation, and surveillance detection.
• Ability to maintain a composed, professional, and discreet demeanor in high-pressure situations.
• Subject to pre-employment and ongoing background checks, drug screening, and any client-mandated clearances.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior executive protection experience.
• Corporate security experience.
• Prior law enforcement or military background is strongly preferred.
• Formal executive protection or close protection training.
• Recognized evasive or tactical driving certification (e.g., EVOC, SDC).
• Tactical medicine or advanced medical training.
• Valid passport, should travel be required.

Technology and Reporting

• Proficiency in the use of radios, smartphones, and secure communication platforms.
• Ability to use GPS navigation and route-planning tools effectively.
• Ability to accurately complete activity logs, incident reports, and required documentation in a timely manner.
• Comfortable operating within client and Cooke & Associates reporting, communication, and incident management systems.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit and drive for extended periods.
• Ability to stand, walk, and remain alert for extended periods while on task.
• Must be physically fit and able to walk approximately 3 to 5 miles per day in the course of protective duties.
• Ability to respond physically to emergencies, including protective movement of the Principal.
• Ability to safely and responsibly carry and deploy authorized equipment consistent with training and policy.

Pay

$55.00 to $60.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications, plus overtime in compliance with California labor law.

Schedule

Monday through Friday, approximately 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with on-call availability for emergency transport. Occasional weekend work based on the Principal's needs.

Location: Based in San Francisco, CA. Candidates must currently reside within the Bay Area or be willing to relocate at their own expense. Employment Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt (W-2), paid hourly. Attire: Plain clothes, business or business-casual appearance consistent with the Principal's environment. Role Type: Armed, concealed carry, plain-clothes secure driving with a secondary executive protection component. Travel: Occasional travel in support of the Principal.