Leaving the Armed Forces is one of the biggest transitions any service person can make. Many find themselves asking the same questions: what next and how do I put all of my military skills and experiences to best use. The answer to this question can often lie in the security sector, which is known for offering a natural and rewarding career path for veterans.

Given the discipline, leadership and situational awareness skills synonymous with the military, service leaders are exceptionally well-suited to roles across private security, risk management and protective operations.

This guide outlines the most common and accessible security jobs for veterans, the qualifications needed, and how ELCAS funding can be used to retrain.

If you’re considering a career in Close Protection specifically, you may also find this guide of use.

Why Veterans Excel in Security Careers

Many of the qualities gained through military service translate directly into civilian security roles:

• High resilience and composure under pressure
• Strong communication and teamwork
• Operational discipline and attention to detail
• Experience of threat awareness and risk mitigation
• Leadership skills and strategic thinking

Employers look for all of these attributes in Close Protection teams, security consultants and operational security roles.

Many of Peregrine’s training staff and instructors are veterans themselves, having operated globally across government, humanitarian and private-sector security environments; they understand the journey from military to civilian life.

Top Security Roles for Ex-Military Professionals

Below are five roles where veterans often find a successful and rewarding pathway into civilian working life:

1. Close Protection Officer (CPO)

Close Protection Officers safeguard individuals/principals through planning, protective strategy and physical security measures. This is one of the most popular roles for service leavers.

Most UK-based roles require an SIA Close Protection Licence. Learn more on the UK government website.

If you want to understand exactly what the training involves, have a read of our article here:

2. Security Consultant

Consultants advise organisations on: threat and risk assessments; travel risk; crisis management; operational planning; security audits; protective intelligence. This is a strong progression route once operational experience has been gained.

3. Maritime Security Operator

These operatives protect vessels, crew and cargo, typically in higher-risk regions. Veterans often excel here due to familiarity with maritime environments and high-stake decision-making.

4. Residential Security Team (RST) Member

RSTs maintain 24/7 security for private families, corporate clients or estates. Roles include: access control; CCTV and monitoring; protective patrols; emergency response. Many veterans find this work stable, structured and rewarding.

5. Security Driver / Protective Mobility Operator

Protective mobility roles involve: route planning; surveillance awareness; secure movement of principals; vehicle security checks. These positions often form part of a broader Close Protection team.

What Qualifications Do You Need?

Most roles require at least one recognised qualification, such as:

1) Level 3 Close Protection Qualification

Accredited by awarding bodies such as Highfield Qualifications, the Highfield Qualification enables you to apply for an SIA licence and begin working as a CPO or RST member.

To find out more about Level 3 Close Protection training, take a look here:

2) First Aid at Work / Trauma First Aid

This type of training/qualification is often mandatory for operational jobs.

3) Additional Specialist Training

Depending on the role, this may include:

• Maritime operations training
• Surveillance courses
• HEAT / hostile environment awareness
• Risk management qualifications

Using ELCAS Credits for Security Training

If you meet eligibility criteria, you can use your Enhanced Learning Credits (ELCAS) to fund your Close Protection or other professional security training. 

Find out more about ELCAS here

You may also find our How to Use Your ELCAS Credits guide helpful 

Career Pathways: Where This Can Lead

With experience and specialisation, many veterans progress into senior operations or consultancy roles, including:

• Operations Manager
• Security Team Leader
• Regional Security Advisor
• Risk Consultant
• Protective Intelligence Analyst
• Training & Instruction roles

Security is one of the few sectors where military experience is not just relevant, it is viewed as a real differentiator.

Start Your Security Career with Peregrine Risk Management

Whether you're about to leave the Forces or looking to take your next professional step, Peregrine provides accredited, career-focused training delivered by experienced, real-life, operational experts.

Take a look at our Level 3 Close Protection Course (ELCAS Funded) here or speak to our training team for guidance on the best route forward.