Protective Services Officer

Cooke & Associates, Inc. (CAI) provides professional protective services in support of public safety agencies and government partners at critical sites requiring controlled access, security, and professional presence.

About the role

The Protective Services Officer – Critical Site Response supports armed security, access control, and protective operations at facilities and locations such as infrastructure assets, government installations, disaster staging areas, and other high-priority sites where sustained security operations are essential. This role is designed for experienced military, law enforcement, corrections, or protective security professionals capable of deploying on short notice and operating effectively in dynamic, high-stress environments while maintaining professionalism, discipline, and adherence to established post orders.

Location

This role is deployment-based with deployments primarily throughout Idaho. Optional deployments to California and Washington may be available based on operational needs. All work is performed onsite at assigned locations. No remote work is available.

Schedule

On-call, as needed. Shifts typically range from 8–12 hours and may include nights, weekends, and extended operations based on site requirements. Ability to deploy within 24–72 hours of notification. Minimum participation expectation of 3–5 days per deployment.

Pay

$40.00 per hour. Overtime eligible and calculated in accordance with Idaho state law based on deployment location.

Responsibilities

• Provide armed, uniformed security and protective services at critical sites and high-priority locations.
• Maintain access control at entrances, exits, perimeters, and restricted areas.
• Support security operations at government installations, infrastructure assets, disaster staging areas, airports, municipal facilities, and similar locations.
• Coordinate professionally with law enforcement agencies, fire services, military units, and local, state, and federal partners.
• Conduct ongoing threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments at assigned locations.
• Safeguard sensitive and confidential information in accordance with NDAs and operational requirements.
• Serve as designated points of contact for disseminating security-related information when directed.
• Support contingency planning and emergency response coordination.
• Maintain situational awareness and respond appropriately to evolving conditions.
• Prepare and submit accurate activity logs, reports, and required documentation.
• Represent Cooke & Associates, Inc. with professionalism, discipline, and accountability at all times.

Requirements

• Valid government-issued identification and proof of eligibility to work in the United States.
• Ability to obtain and maintain any city or municipality-level security guard permits or registrations required in the jurisdiction(s) of assignment. Requirements vary by location; CAI will provide guidance on applicable local requirements.
• Ability to lawfully carry a firearm in the state of Idaho in accordance with applicable state and local law.
• Verifiable professional experience meeting one of the following:
  • Minimum 5 years law enforcement, corrections, or fire service experience; or
  • Minimum 8 years military service experience
• Prior experience operating at critical sites, secured facilities, disaster response locations, or in high-stress operational environments.
• Ability to successfully complete pre-employment and periodic background investigations and drug screening.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to deploy on short notice and meet minimum deployment participation expectations.
• Ability to work nights, weekends, extended hours, and variable schedules.
• Ability to work independently, as part of a team, and in remote or austere environments.
• Proficiency with radios, smartphones, and basic communication and reporting platforms.
• Ability to maintain professional appearance, grooming standards, and physical readiness.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher education.
• Idaho Enhanced Concealed Carry Permit or equivalent.
• Experience in critical site security, infrastructure protection, or emergency management operations.
• Completion of NIMS / ICS certifications (ICS 100–400, FEMA IS-100.B, IS-200.B, IS-700.A).
• Willingness to accept optional deployments to California, Washington, or other states when operationally required. (Note: Out-of-state deployments may require additional state-specific licensing or credentials.)

Technology & Reporting Expectations

• Use of radios, smartphones, and incident communication systems.
• Timely and accurate completion of electronic activity logs and incident reports.
• Compliance with CAI and client reporting, documentation, and communication standards.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods of time.
• Ability to work long shifts in varying environmental and operational conditions.
• Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to maintain alertness and readiness during extended operations.

Role Suitability

This role is not suited for individuals seeking passive security assignments. It requires availability for on-call deployment, short-notice response, extended shifts, and consistent professional engagement in dynamic and often austere environments.

Protective Services Officers in this role work in close and continuous contact with public safety professionals, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency responders, and government officials, as well as political and community leaders. The role also involves regular interaction with members of the public, including individuals who may be in distress and, at times, individuals engaged in criminal or disruptive behavior. As such, this position requires strong judgment, emotional control, and the ability to remain professional and composed in high-pressure situations.

This is a high-visibility role protecting critical sites, personnel, and assets throughout Idaho. A strong yet approachable presence is required. Candidates must be capable of delivering a high level of customer service while maintaining authority, professionalism, and adherence to post orders in complex and sensitive environments.