By Wendy Anders

The U.S. Embassy in the western San José district of Pavas is hiring three full-time bodyguards.

The position is open from now until January 24.

Bodyguards provide armed protective security to the U.S. Department of State to ensure the safety of the U.S. Ambassador to Costa Rica or the Chargé, in the absence of the Chief of Mission. The position requires both regular scheduled hours and occasional unscheduled weekend work.

The work also includes operating armored vehicles, and conducting site advance planning, and liaison with local police, other Government of Costa Rica authorities, corporate representatives and Embassy personnel.

Applicants should have competed high school, and have two years of previous police, military, protection officer, or security work, and have knowledge of first aid.

The positions require fluent Spanish and basic English language skills, as well as a local driver’s license and the ability to obtain a weapons carry permit.

Applicants must possess basic knowledge of security procedures, protective functions, basic knowledge of the local threat environment and be well versed in ways to effectively mitigate threats in the diplomatic environment. Position holder must have a working knowledge of police and close protection operations in Costa Rica.

Due to the high volume of applications received, the Embassy will only contact applicants who are being considered.

Applicants must submit the following documents to be considered.

1.    Universal Application for Employment (UAE) (Form DS-174), which is available on our website or by contacting Human Resources.         2.    Any additional documentation that supports or addresses the requirements listed above (e.g. transcripts, degrees, etc.)

The U.S. Embassy human resources office e-mail address is <[email protected]>.