Position
Salary

How much does a Security Director make?

The average salary for a Security Director is $123,697 per year in the US.

A Security Director plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of an organization. This role often involves overseeing security staff, developing security policies, and managing security systems. The average yearly salary for a Security Director stands at $123,697. This figure reflects the importance and responsibility of the position.


The salary for a Security Director can vary based on several factors. These include the size of the organization, the industry, and the location. For example, those working in high-risk industries may earn more. Similarly, Security Directors in larger cities may see higher salaries. The data shows that the lowest 10% earn around $42,200, while the top 10% earn over $282,500. This range highlights the potential for growth and advancement in the field.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Security Director?

Security Director jobs offer competitive salaries, especially in major cities. San Francisco, California, leads with an average salary of $182,906, making it a top choice for those in the field. Other cities like Pittsburgh, Dallas, and Seattle also provide high salaries, ranging from $163,000 to $164,000 annually. These cities attract top talent due to their strong job markets and high demand for skilled security professionals.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Security Director jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $182,906 and Los Angeles, CA with the lowest at $131,678.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $182,906
    In San Francisco, a city known for its tech giants, overseeing security for companies like Google and Salesforce is a key role. Professionals here ensure safety in a bustling urban environment, balancing tech innovation with security needs.
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  2. Pittsburgh, PA
    Average Salary: $164,830
    Pittsburgh offers a unique blend of industrial and technological security needs. Working with companies like UPMC and PPG Industries, security directors here focus on both physical and cyber security in a historic city.
    Find Security Director jobs in Pittsburgh, PA


  3. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $163,667
    Dallas is a hub for business and energy, making it a dynamic place for security directors. With companies like AT&T and ExxonMobil, professionals here manage large-scale security operations in a fast-growing city.
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  4. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $163,123
    Seattle's tech scene, led by companies like Amazon and Microsoft, requires robust security measures. Security directors here play a crucial role in protecting assets and people in a city known for its innovation.
    Find Security Director jobs in Seattle, WA


  5. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $159,026
    In Washington, DC, security directors work in a politically charged environment. Protecting government buildings and embassies, they ensure safety for a diverse range of organizations and visitors.
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  6. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $142,218
    Boston's rich history and educational institutions create a unique security landscape. Security directors here manage safety for universities and healthcare facilities, balancing tradition with modern security needs.
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  7. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $136,569
    Phoenix offers a growing market for security directors. With companies like Freeport-McMoRan and Avnet, professionals here focus on security in a rapidly expanding city with diverse industries.
    Find Security Director jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  8. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $133,994
    Austin's tech boom and vibrant culture make it a dynamic place for security directors. Working with companies like Dell and Apple, they ensure safety in a city known for its innovation and liveliness.
    Find Security Director jobs in Austin, TX


  9. Philadelphia, PA
    Average Salary: $133,973
    Philadelphia offers a mix of historical and modern security challenges. Security directors here work with companies like Comcast and Independence Blue Cross, managing safety in a city with a rich heritage.
    Find Security Director jobs in Philadelphia, PA


  10. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $131,678
    Los Angeles, a center for entertainment and media, requires specialized security measures. Security directors here protect assets and people for companies like Disney and Warner Bros., navigating a city known for its glamour and diversity.
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What are the best companies a Security Director can work for?

Palo Alto Networks offers one of the highest salaries for Security Director positions, averaging around $324,098 per year. PwC and KPMG also provide competitive compensation, with average salaries around $256,638 and $233,859, respectively. Hilton, HighCom Security Services, Inc., and Securitas offer attractive packages, with average salaries ranging from $127,943 to $95,000.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Security Director jobs, highlighting Palo Alto Networks with the highest at $324,098 and Professional Security Consultants with the lowest at $60,357.
  1. Palo Alto Networks
    Average Salary: $324,098
    Palo Alto Networks offers exciting opportunities for Security Directors. They focus on cybersecurity and operate globally. Their Security Directors lead teams to protect against cyber threats, ensuring the safety of their digital assets.


  2. PwC
    Average Salary: $256,638
    PwC provides a dynamic environment for Security Directors. They work in assurance, tax, and consulting. Security Directors at PwC develop strategies to safeguard their clients' information and assets.


  3. KPMG
    Average Salary: $233,859
    KPMG offers rewarding roles for Security Directors. They provide audit, tax, and advisory services. Security Directors at KPMG ensure the security of their clients' data and operations.


  4. Hilton
    Average Salary: $127,943
    Hilton offers a stable environment for Security Directors. They operate hotels worldwide. Security Directors at Hilton manage safety and security for guests and staff.


  5. HighCom Security Services, Inc.
    Average Salary: $95,000
    HighCom Security Services, Inc. provides specialized security roles. They focus on corporate security. Security Directors here oversee security operations for their clients.


  6. Securitas
    Average Salary: $76,189
    Securitas offers diverse opportunities for Security Directors. They provide security services globally. Security Directors at Securitas manage security teams and ensure safety.


  7. Andy Frain Services
    Average Salary: $65,471
    Andy Frain Services offers roles for Security Directors. They focus on security consulting. Security Directors here develop security plans and manage security teams.


  8. Allied Universal
    Average Salary: $61,446
    Allied Universal provides a range of security services. They operate in many locations. Security Directors at Allied Universal oversee security operations and ensure safety.


  9. Professional Security Consultants
    Average Salary: $60,357
    Professional Security Consultants offer specialized security roles. They focus on security consulting. Security Directors here develop security strategies and manage security teams.

How to earn more as a Security Director?

A Security Director plays a crucial role in protecting an organization's assets and people. To earn more in this role, consider these key factors. Gaining relevant experience and certifications can boost earning potential. Specialized skills in areas like cybersecurity or risk management often command higher salaries. Networking with industry professionals opens doors to higher-paying opportunities. Taking on leadership roles and demonstrating a track record of success can lead to salary increases. Pursuing advanced degrees or additional training can also enhance earning power.

Security Directors who invest in their professional development often find better-paying positions. Certifications such as CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) or CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control) can make a significant difference. Experience in managing large security teams and implementing effective security strategies is highly valued. Those who can show a proven ability to reduce risks and improve security protocols may earn more. Networking at industry events and joining professional organizations can lead to higher-paying job offers.

  1. Gain relevant experience and certifications.
  2. Develop specialized skills in cybersecurity or risk management.
  3. Network with industry professionals.
  4. Take on leadership roles and demonstrate success.
  5. Pursue advanced degrees or additional training.

Currently 250 Security Director job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Security Director in the US?

Learn what a Security Director does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Security Director today.
Position
Overview
Security Director
250 Job Openings