Security Guard Careers Information
A career as a security guard can be an attractive one for candidates interested in law enforcement or criminal justice, but who need to get to work more quickly and with fewer qualifications. Work as a security guard can very greatly by industry, with responsibilities starting at a basic front desk role all the way up to mobile patrols at some larger companies. Security guards deter criminal activity, enforce laws on the property, and depending on the problem, may call in local authorities.
Security Guard Careers & Degrees
- Colorado Technical University - Undergraduate: Undergraduate - Online
Security officers may or may not be armed, depending on the location and nature of the job. Depending on the nature of the position, they may be required to patrol a given area, or remain in a static position, monitoring security cameras or entrances/exits.
The duties of security personnel will vary greatly by employer. Private security for a movie star entails dealing with photographers, keeping unruly fans away, or possibly protecting the star’s children or family. Security at a transportation hub such as an airport or train station will require screening passengers and protecting both passengers and cargo from illegal activity and even terrorist attacks. Security at a retail outlet often entails guarding merchandise, perhaps even more so than people, and working with undercover store agents to prevent shoplifting.
Security Guard Careers Path
The main requirement for security guards is a state license, although this is not required in every state. Security guard licenses are not usually as difficult to obtain as other state licenses; its main components are a background check, drug testing, and age verification. Some prisons require as well the completion of coursework on the nature and background of security work.
Degree programs in corrections are increasingly common, as prospective guards look for a leg up in their careers. As mentioned above, some firms will place further training requirements on armed guards. Whatever their focus, new guards should expect at least a few months of on the job training.
Security Guard Careers: Compatible Personality Traits
Vigilant, attentive, observant, responsive, courageous, dedicated, patient, self-motivated. Security guards need to remain “on their game” for long periods of inaction, and be ready to address problems in very short notice. A strong constitution is required as well, because this career often involves solo work in potentially dangerous situations.
Security Guard Careers: Salary Expectations
The median income for security guards is $23,460 a year. Compensation, however, varies significantly by industry. Median salaries for security guards in certain industries, such as IT ($47,050) and local government ($30,800), tend to be higher.
Security Guard Careers: Job Outlook
Security Guard employment is expected to grow by 17% by 2016, a faster rate than the overall economy. Worth noting is the especially encouraging growth in gaming security and surveillance, which is expected to grow by a massive 34% as the casino industry expands nationwide.
Slightly Off the Footpath
Source: bls.gov/oes/current/oes339032.htm
