Security Specialist Jobs in California

Security Specialist jobs in California are in strong demand, with active hiring concentrated in defense contracting, technology, financial services, and government agencies, and openings ranging from entry-level security analysts through senior roles in threat intelligence and compliance. The largest hiring markets are Los Angeles, San Diego, and the San Francisco Bay Area, where employers like Northrop Grumman, Leidos, and Wells Fargo maintain significant California operations. The most sought-after specialties include cybersecurity, physical security management, and information assurance. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.

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Overview

Open roles180+

Top employerTarget

Top citySan Jose, CA

Cities hiring95

Work type52% On-site

Top industryTechnology

Showing 4 of 180+ Security Specialist jobs

Security Specialist

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Added 1d ago

DSI Security Services

Security Specialist

Tracy, California

Added 1d ago

DSI Security Services

Tracy, California

Business Operations

Program Management

Project Management

Business Operations

Program Management

Project Management

Salary TBD

Bachelor's degree in business administration

5,001-10,000

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Information Security Risk and Governance Specialist, Consultant

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Added 1d ago

Blue Shield of California

Information Security Risk and Governance Specialist, Consultant

Oakland, California

Added 1d ago

Blue Shield of California

Oakland, California

Business Development

Corporate Development & M&A

Investment Operations

Procurement & Purchasing

Business Development

Corporate Development & M&A

Investment Operations

Procurement & Purchasing

$123k - $185k/yr

Remote (US)

Bachelor's degree

$123k - $185k/yr

Remote (US)

Bachelor's degree

5,001-10,000

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Target Security Specialist

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Added 1d ago

Target

Target Security Specialist

Los Angeles, California

Added 1d ago

Target

Los Angeles, California

Communications

Content & Communications

Public Relations (PR)

Communications

Content & Communications

Public Relations (PR)

Salary TBD

High school diploma or GED

10,000+

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Target Security Specialist

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Added 1d ago

Target

Target Security Specialist

Apple Valley, California

Added 1d ago

Target

Apple Valley, California

Business Operations

Compliance & Risk

Project Management

Business Operations

Compliance & Risk

Project Management

Salary TBD

High school diploma or GED

10,000+

Have you applied for this role?

Added 1d ago

Security Specialist

DSI Security Services·Tracy, California

Job functions:

Business Operations

Program Management

Project Management

Bachelor's degree in business administration

5,001-10,000 employees

Job Description

Security Specialist

Salary: $75,000/YR

Location: Tracy, CA

Company Overview

DSI Security Services is a leading provider of contract security solutions, serving clients across multiple industries nationwide. Founded on the principle of DWYSYWD — “Do What You Say You Will Do,” DSI is committed to accountability, professionalism, and delivering consistent, high-quality service.

We believe success starts with our people. Through thoughtful recruiting, ongoing training, and strong operational support, DSI creates work environments that align with both our clients’ expectations and our core values. Our focus on integrity, teamwork, and continuous improvement allows us to build long-term partnerships with clients while providing meaningful career opportunities for our employees.

Position Overview

DSI Security Services is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Security Specialist to support regional safety, physical security, loss prevention, and compliance initiatives.

This position plays an important role in protecting employees, property, products, and confidential information while supporting investigations, security systems, regulatory compliance, and risk-management programs.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in physical security, investigations, asset protection, loss prevention, or logistics security and will be comfortable working independently in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

As a Security Specialist, responsibilities may include:

Monitor security performance indicators and support programs involving personnel and property protection, intrusion detection, access control, CCTV, and other physical security operations.
Investigate theft, fraud, loss, shrink, damaged or missing goods, policy violations, and other security or ethics-related concerns.
Prepare detailed investigative reports and recommend appropriate corrective and preventive actions.
Support company security policies, regulatory requirements, client standards, audits, and risk and threat assessments.
Assist with compliance involving applicable security standards, including TAPA and other industry requirements.
Conduct security awareness training and coordinate required training and knowledge checks with security personnel and service providers.
Inspect and verify security systems, equipment, CCTV, access-control systems, and related procedures.
Identify security deficiencies and follow through to ensure corrective action is completed.
Maintain strict confidentiality regarding investigations, business operations, systems, employees, and sensitive company information.
Serve as a backup to regional security leadership when needed.
Provide guidance and oversight to assigned security personnel.
Build productive working relationships with internal departments, carriers, law enforcement agencies, security professionals, and other external partners.
Respond to urgent security incidents and support investigations as necessary.
Travel throughout the assigned region, including on short notice when business needs require.
Perform additional duties as assigned by security leadership.

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED required.
Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Security Management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred but not required.
Relevant professional experience may be considered in place of a degree.
Previous experience in physical security, investigations, loss prevention, asset protection, or a related field.
Experience supervising or leading security personnel preferred.
Supply chain, distribution, warehouse, or logistics security experience is strongly preferred.
General knowledge of CCTV/video management systems and electronic access-control systems.
Strong investigative, analytical, problem-solving, and report-writing skills.
Ability to work independently and manage sensitive or complex situations with sound judgment.
Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Outlook.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus.
Professional security certifications are preferred.
Valid driver’s license required.
Must be willing and able to travel within the assigned region.
Must successfully complete all company-required background screening, drug testing, and applicable clearance requirements.

What We’re Looking For

The successful candidate will:

Communicate professionally and diplomatically with employees, clients, leadership, law enforcement, and external partners.
Demonstrate strong analytical, strategic, and tactical thinking.
Identify security concerns and develop practical, cost-effective solutions.
Exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality.
Be self-motivated and capable of working with minimal supervision.
Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, reliability, and accountability.
Work effectively both independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
Remain calm and professional when responding to urgent or sensitive security matters.

Physical Requirements

Candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, including standing, walking, bending, reading, concentrating, communicating, and performing other normal workplace activities.
The position may require lifting and carrying up to 25 pounds and pushing or pulling up to 25 pounds.
Regular and timely attendance is required.

Why Join DSI?
At DSI Security Services, we believe strong security begins with strong people. This position offers the opportunity to work in a professional security environment where your experience in investigations, physical security, loss prevention, and risk management can make a meaningful impact.

If you are a motivated security professional who values accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement, we encourage you to apply and grow your career with DSI Security Services.

DSI Security Services — DWYSYWD: Do What You Say You Will Do

DSI Security Services is a drug free employer complies with all applicable laws regarding affirmative action and equal opportunity in all its activities and programs and does not discriminate against anyone protected by law because of age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex, handicap, or status as a veteran or disabled veteran.

DSI Security Services is an equal employment/affirmative action employer. If you need accommodation for any part of the employment process because of a medical condition or disability, please contact Human Resources.

DSI Security Services

Security Specialist

Tracy, California

Added 1d ago

5,001-10,000 employees

Job functions:

Business Operations

Program Management

Project Management

Bachelor's degree in business administration

Job Description

Security Specialist

Salary: $75,000/YR

Location: Tracy, CA

Company Overview

DSI Security Services is a leading provider of contract security solutions, serving clients across multiple industries nationwide. Founded on the principle of DWYSYWD — “Do What You Say You Will Do,” DSI is committed to accountability, professionalism, and delivering consistent, high-quality service.

We believe success starts with our people. Through thoughtful recruiting, ongoing training, and strong operational support, DSI creates work environments that align with both our clients’ expectations and our core values. Our focus on integrity, teamwork, and continuous improvement allows us to build long-term partnerships with clients while providing meaningful career opportunities for our employees.

Position Overview

DSI Security Services is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Security Specialist to support regional safety, physical security, loss prevention, and compliance initiatives.

This position plays an important role in protecting employees, property, products, and confidential information while supporting investigations, security systems, regulatory compliance, and risk-management programs.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in physical security, investigations, asset protection, loss prevention, or logistics security and will be comfortable working independently in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

As a Security Specialist, responsibilities may include:

Monitor security performance indicators and support programs involving personnel and property protection, intrusion detection, access control, CCTV, and other physical security operations.
Investigate theft, fraud, loss, shrink, damaged or missing goods, policy violations, and other security or ethics-related concerns.
Prepare detailed investigative reports and recommend appropriate corrective and preventive actions.
Support company security policies, regulatory requirements, client standards, audits, and risk and threat assessments.
Assist with compliance involving applicable security standards, including TAPA and other industry requirements.
Conduct security awareness training and coordinate required training and knowledge checks with security personnel and service providers.
Inspect and verify security systems, equipment, CCTV, access-control systems, and related procedures.
Identify security deficiencies and follow through to ensure corrective action is completed.
Maintain strict confidentiality regarding investigations, business operations, systems, employees, and sensitive company information.
Serve as a backup to regional security leadership when needed.
Provide guidance and oversight to assigned security personnel.
Build productive working relationships with internal departments, carriers, law enforcement agencies, security professionals, and other external partners.
Respond to urgent security incidents and support investigations as necessary.
Travel throughout the assigned region, including on short notice when business needs require.
Perform additional duties as assigned by security leadership.

Qualifications

High school diploma or GED required.
Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Security Management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred but not required.
Relevant professional experience may be considered in place of a degree.
Previous experience in physical security, investigations, loss prevention, asset protection, or a related field.
Experience supervising or leading security personnel preferred.
Supply chain, distribution, warehouse, or logistics security experience is strongly preferred.
General knowledge of CCTV/video management systems and electronic access-control systems.
Strong investigative, analytical, problem-solving, and report-writing skills.
Ability to work independently and manage sensitive or complex situations with sound judgment.
Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Outlook.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus.
Professional security certifications are preferred.
Valid driver’s license required.
Must be willing and able to travel within the assigned region.
Must successfully complete all company-required background screening, drug testing, and applicable clearance requirements.

What We’re Looking For

The successful candidate will:

Communicate professionally and diplomatically with employees, clients, leadership, law enforcement, and external partners.
Demonstrate strong analytical, strategic, and tactical thinking.
Identify security concerns and develop practical, cost-effective solutions.
Exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality.
Be self-motivated and capable of working with minimal supervision.
Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, reliability, and accountability.
Work effectively both independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
Remain calm and professional when responding to urgent or sensitive security matters.

Physical Requirements

Candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, including standing, walking, bending, reading, concentrating, communicating, and performing other normal workplace activities.
The position may require lifting and carrying up to 25 pounds and pushing or pulling up to 25 pounds.
Regular and timely attendance is required.

Why Join DSI?
At DSI Security Services, we believe strong security begins with strong people. This position offers the opportunity to work in a professional security environment where your experience in investigations, physical security, loss prevention, and risk management can make a meaningful impact.

If you are a motivated security professional who values accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement, we encourage you to apply and grow your career with DSI Security Services.

DSI Security Services — DWYSYWD: Do What You Say You Will Do

DSI Security Services is a drug free employer complies with all applicable laws regarding affirmative action and equal opportunity in all its activities and programs and does not discriminate against anyone protected by law because of age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex, handicap, or status as a veteran or disabled veteran.

DSI Security Services is an equal employment/affirmative action employer. If you need accommodation for any part of the employment process because of a medical condition or disability, please contact Human Resources.

See All 180+ Security Specialist Jobs in California

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Security Specialist Jobs by City in California

Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.

San Jose

12 jobs

San Francisco

12 jobs

Los Angeles

10 jobs

San Diego

9 jobs

Port Hueneme

6 jobs

El Segundo

5 jobs

Sacramento

5 jobs

Cupertino

4 jobs

San Bernardino

4 jobs

Security Specialist Job Market in California

A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.

Who's Hiring

Target51
Security Industry Specialists28
Allied Universal11
Gavin de Becker & Associates8
Amazon7

Top Industries Hiring

Technology & Software
Retail
Staffing & Recruiting
E-Commerce & Online Marketplaces

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What California Employers Look For

The qualifications that appear most often in security specialist jobs across California.

Active California BSIS (Bureau of Security and Investigative Services) Guard Card or relevant BSIS registration
Associate or bachelor's degree in criminal justice, cybersecurity, or a related field
Relevant certification such as CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CPP (Certified Protection Professional)
Demonstrated experience conducting risk assessments, incident response, or security investigations
Familiarity with California workplace safety regulations and security compliance requirements
Strong written communication skills for producing security reports, logs, and documentation

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Security Specialist Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions

How do you become a security specialist in California?

The most direct path is obtaining the appropriate registration from the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services, which oversees security personnel licensing in the state. Physical and proprietary security roles typically require a BSIS Guard Card, while management-level positions often call for a BSIS Qualified Manager certificate. Cybersecurity-focused roles generally require a degree in information technology or a related field, plus industry certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or CISSP, without a BSIS credential.

How much do security specialists make in California?

Security specialists in California earn a median of about $87,570 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $46,410 for the lowest 10% to over $169,160 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.

Which companies hire security specialists in California?

Employers hiring security specialists in California right now include Target, Security Industry Specialists, and Allied Universal, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of October 2026. California's concentration of defense contractors, major financial institutions, and large technology campuses means demand for both physical and cybersecurity specialists remains steady across the state.

Which California cities have the most security specialist jobs?

The cities with the most security specialist openings in California are San Jose, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. This distribution reflects Los Angeles's dense mix of entertainment, finance, and government facilities, San Diego's large defense and military contractor presence, and the Bay Area's concentration of technology companies requiring cybersecurity and information assurance professionals.

Are there remote security specialist jobs in California?

Yes, but they are limited, since a significant portion of security specialist work is hands-on and site-specific. About 48% of security specialist openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of October 2026, and those positions are concentrated in cybersecurity, threat analysis, and compliance roles rather than physical security or facilities-based positions.

How can I get hired as a security specialist in California with little or no experience?

The most realistic entry point is obtaining a BSIS Guard Card and applying for security officer or security associate roles at large California employers such as Allied Universal, Securitas, or major hospital systems and university campuses. These organizations regularly hire candidates without prior experience and promote into specialist roles internally. Pairing your Guard Card with a CompTIA Security+ certification strengthens your candidacy for roles that bridge physical and information security responsibilities.

Where can I find and apply to security specialist jobs in California?

You can find and apply to security specialist jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings across industries and metro areas. Find the roles that fit your background and apply directly to the ones that match.

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