Gavin de Becker & Associates (GDBA) protects the world’s most influential and at-risk public figures.  Founded in 1978 by 3-time Presidential appointee, Gavin de Becker, our firm’s Protectors, Analysts, and Investigators are committed to our mission of protecting human life through the assessment, prediction, and management of violence.   

GDBA’s Mission: The Safety, Privacy, and Wellbeing of our Clients  

A newly hired Protector in Menlo Park/Palo Alto will earn no less than $90,000 in base earnings during their first year with GDBA. Menlo Park/Palo Alto-based Protectors could earn up to $110,000 in first year earnings when accounting for prior relevant experience, GDBA Training Academy performance, and promotion opportunities. 

Newly hired Protectors in the Bay Area are now eligible for a $2,000 sign-on bonus. 

Who You Are:  

We are actively seeking high-performing athletes and fitness training professionals where physical readiness, mental discipline, and precise decision-making matter. GDBA incorporates physical fitness standards into its selection process and our deployment of anti-assassination strategies each and every day.  

Many applicants that possess the following skill sets and professional certifications have gone on to have successful GDBA careers: 

• Collegiate / Professional Athletes (All sports welcome) 
• Certified Personal Trainers - NASM, ACE, ISSA, NCSF, ACSM
• Military Fitness Trainers - Master Fitness Trainer (Army, Navy, Air Force), Force Fitness Instructor (Marine Corps) 
• Bodybuilders - NPC, OCB, NFF, IFBB 
• Pilates / Yoga Instructors 
• Olympic Powerlifters 
• HYROX / CrossFit Athletes 

WHY? - Physical fitness is foundational to readiness, rapid response, and confident performance under pressure. Strength is a choice.  

Your Role as a Protector:  

• Monitor property while utilizing the tools and technology of a GDBA Command Center  
• Screen visitors and vendors; control all access to protected site  
• Coordinate and execute security plans and respond to medical emergencies  
• Provide physical protection and logistical support at clients' homes and when they travel  
• Provide secure transportation as needed  
• Survey and prepare (advance) locations prior to arrival of client  
• Prepare detailed documentation of suspicious activity  
• Create and maintain readiness to meet any threat  

Hiring Process Requirements: 

• 12-Day Introductory Training Academy in San Antonio, TX 
• Be able to pass physical readiness test (Pull-ups, Push-ups, Sit-ups, 800m run) 
• Must be able to swim 
• Must be drug and nicotine free 
• Background check required 
• Must be able to obtain appropriate state firearm and security licensing 

Best in Class 401k Retirement Plan 

• $15,000 employer contribution for First-Year Associates 
• $3,000 employer contribution each year thereafter   
• 10% no-limit matching for all Associates who choose to contribute to their retirement plan 

To learn more about earnings, promotions, benefits, and more – visit GDBA.com/careers