Median annual earnings of security guards were $19,140 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $15,910 and $23,920. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $13,740, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $31,540. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of security guards in 2002 were as follows:
| Elementary and secondary schools | $24,470 |
| General medical and surgical hospitals | 24,050 |
| Local government | 22,120 |
| Traveler accommodation | 21,390 |
| Investigation and security services | 17,910 |
Gaming surveillance officers and gaming investigators had median annual earnings of $23,110 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $19,620 and $28,420. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $15,930, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $35,170.
Guards, who are also called security officers, patrol and inspect property to protect against fire, theft, vandalism, terrorism, and illegal activity. These workers protect their employer’s investment, enforce laws on the property, and deter criminal activity or other problems. They use radio and telephone communications to call for assistance from police, fire, or emergency medical services as the situation dictates. Security guards write comprehensive reports outlining their observations and activities during their assigned shift. They may also interview witnesses or victims, prepare case reports, and testify in court.
Although all security guards perform many of the same duties, specific duties vary based on whether the guard works in a “static” security position or on a mobile patrol. Guards assigned to static security positions usually serve the client at one location for a specific length of time. These guards must become closely acquainted with the property and people associated with it and often monitor alarms and closed-circuit TV cameras. In contrast, guards assigned to mobile patrol duty drive or walk from location to location and conduct security checks within an assigned geographical zone. They may detain or arrest criminal violators, answer service calls concerning criminal activity or problems, and issue traffic violation warnings.
Specific job responsibilities also vary with the size, type, and location of the employer. In department stores, guards protect people, records, merchandise, money, and equipment. They often work with undercover store detectives to prevent theft by customers or store employees and help in the apprehension of shoplifting suspects prior to arrival by police. Some shopping centers and theaters have officers mounted on horses or bicycles who patrol their parking lots to deter car theft and robberies. In office buildings, banks, and hospitals, guards maintain order and protect the institutions’ property, staff, and customers. At air, sea, and rail terminals and other transportation facilities, guards protect people, freight, property, and equipment. They may screen passengers and visitors for weapons and explosives using metal detectors and high-tech equipment, ensure nothing is stolen while being loaded or unloaded, and watch for fires and criminals.
Guards who work in public buildings such as museums or art galleries protect paintings and exhibits by inspecting people and packages entering and leaving the building. In factories, laboratories, government buildings, data processing centers, and military bases, security officers protect information, products, computer codes, and defense secrets and check the credentials of people and vehicles entering and leaving the premises. Guards working at universities, parks, and sports stadiums perform crowd control, supervise parking and seating, and direct traffic. Security guards stationed at the entrance to bars and places of adult entertainment, such as nightclubs, prevent access by minors, collect cover charges at the door, maintain order among customers, and protect property and patrons.
Armored car guards protect money and valuables during transit. In addition, they protect individuals responsible for making commercial bank deposits from theft or bodily injury. When the armored car arrives at the door of a business, an armed guard enters, signs for the money, and returns to the truck with the valuables in hand. Carrying money between the truck and the business can be extremely hazardous for guards. Because of this risk, armored car guards usually wear bullet-proof vests.
All security officers must show good judgment and common sense, follow directions and directives from supervisors, accurately testify in court, and follow company policy and guidelines. Guards should have a professional appearance and attitude and be able to interact with the public. They also must be able to take charge and direct others in emergencies or other dangerous incidents. In a large organization, the security manager is often in charge of a trained guard force divided into shifts; whereas in a small organization, a single worker may be responsible for all security.
Gaming surveillance officers and gaming investigators act as security agents for casino managers and patrons. They observe casino operations for irregular activities, such as cheating or theft, by either employees or patrons. To do this, surveillance officers and investigators often monitor activities from a catwalk over one-way mirrors located above the casino floor. Many casinos use audio and video equipment, allowing surveillance officers and investigators to observe these same areas via monitors. Recordings are kept as a record and are sometimes used as evidence against alleged criminals in police investigations.
Opportunities for security guards and gaming surveillance officers should be favorable. Numerous job openings will stem from employment growth attributable to the desire for increased security, and from the need to replace those who leave this large occupation each year. In addition to full-time job opportunities, the limited training requirements and flexible hours attract many persons seeking part-time or second jobs. However, competition is expected for higher paying positions that require longer periods of training; these positions usually are found at facilities that require a high level of security, such as nuclear power plants or weapons installations.
Employment of security guards and gaming surveillance officers is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2012 as concern about crime, vandalism, and terrorism continue to increase the need for security. Demand for guards also will grow as private security firms increasingly perform duties—such as monitoring crowds at airports and providing security in courts—which were formerly handled by government police officers and marshals. Because enlisting the services of a security guard firm is easier and less costly than assuming direct responsibility for hiring, training, and managing a security guard force, job growth is expected to be concentrated among contract security guard agencies. Casinos will continue to hire more surveillance officers as more States legalize gambling and as the number of casinos increases in States where gambling is already legal. Additionally, casino security forces will employ more technically trained personnel as technology becomes increasingly important in thwarting casino cheating and theft.
Most States require that guards be licensed. To be licensed as a guard, individuals must usually be at least 18 years old, pass a background check, and complete classroom training in such subjects as property rights, emergency procedures, and detention of suspected criminals. Drug testing often is required, and may be random and ongoing.
Many employers of unarmed guards do not have any specific educational requirements. For armed guards, employers usually prefer individuals who are high school graduates or hold an equivalent certification. Many jobs require a driver’s license. For positions as armed guards, employers often seek people who have had responsible experience in other occupations.
Guards who carry weapons must be licensed by the appropriate government authority, and some receive further certification as special police officers, which allows them to make limited types of arrests while on duty. Armed guard positions have more stringent background checks and entry requirements than those of unarmed guards because of greater insurance liability risks. Compared to unarmed security guards, armed guards and special police typically enjoy higher earnings and benefits, greater job security, more advancement potential, and usually are given more training and responsibility.
Rigorous hiring and screening programs consisting of background, criminal record, and fingerprint checks are becoming the norm in the occupation. Applicants are expected to have good character references, no serious police record, and good health. They should be mentally alert, emotionally stable, and physically fit in order to cope with emergencies. Guards who have frequent contact with the public should communicate well.
The amount of training guards receive varies. Training requirements are higher for armed guards because their employers are legally responsible for any use of force. Armed guards receive formal training in areas such as weapons retention and laws covering the use of force.
Many employers give newly hired guards instruction before they start the job and also provide on-the-job training. An increasing number of States are making ongoing training a legal requirement for retention of certification. Guards may receive training in protection, public relations, report writing, crisis deterrence, and first aid, as well as specialized training relevant to their particular assignment.
Guards employed at establishments placing a heavy emphasis on security usually receive extensive formal training. For example, guards at nuclear power plants undergo several months of training before being placed on duty under close supervision. They are taught to use firearms, administer first aid, operate alarm systems and electronic security equipment, and spot and deal with security problems. Guards authorized to carry firearms may be periodically tested in their use.
Although guards in small companies may receive periodic salary increases, advancement opportunities are limited. Most large organizations use a military type of ranking that offers the possibility of advancement in position and salary. Some guards may advance to supervisor or security manager positions. Guards with management skills may open their own contract security guard agencies.
In addition to the keen observation skills required to perform their jobs, gaming surveillance officers and gaming investigators must have excellent verbal and writing abilities to document violations or suspicious behavior. They also need to be physically fit and have quick reflexes because they sometimes must detain individuals until local law enforcement officials arrive.
Surveillance officers and investigators usually do not need a bachelor’s degree, but some training beyond high school is required; previous security experience is a plus. Several educational institutes offer certification programs. Training classes usually are conducted in a casino-like atmosphere using surveillance camera equipment.
Guards protect property, maintain security, and enforce regulations and standards of conduct in the establishments at which they work. Related security and protective service occupations include correctional officers, police and detectives, and private detectives and investigators.
Further information about work opportunities for guards is available from local security and guard firms and State employment service offices. Information about licensing requirements for guards may be obtained from the State licensing commission or the State police department. In States where local jurisdictions establish licensing requirements, contact a local government authority such as the sheriff, county executive, or city manager.
Our instructors have trained more than 5,000 police and security guards. Our instructor course director and trainers hold formal qualifications in workplace training as well as being experts in the security protection industry. You will find our security instructors to be professional, respectful and encouraging. After you complete our guard courses you will receive a course evaluation form. You will also receive a course software program that will help you do well in your assessments.
Summary of: http://www.safecity.nsw.edu.au/spe.htm
Because of limited formal training requirements and flexible hours, this occupation attracts many individuals seeking a second or part-time job. Some positions, such as those of armored car guards, are hazardous. These workers protect their employer’s investment, enforce laws on the property, and deter criminal activity or other problems. Security guards write comprehensive reports outlining their observations and activities during their assigned shift. Some shopping centers and theaters have officers mounted on horses or bicycles who patrol their parking lots to deter car theft and robberies.
Summary of: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos159.htm
For information regarding employment and training requirements for the armoured car industry, contact any armoured car company.
Summary of: http://www.jibc.bc.ca/police/programs/armouredCarGuard/default.htm
McGoey, CPP, CSP, CAM Courtesy Officer vs. Security Guard Is there a difference between a uniformed security guard and a courtesy officer on an apartment property. In practical terms, the primary difference between the two is that the contract security guard is employed by the contractor and not by you. Many courtesy officers offer superior service and become very loyal to the property they protect. Also, remember that off-duty police officers may be tired and may not want to wear another uniform or do a lot of foot patrol.
Summary of: http://www.crimedoctor.com/apartmen5.htm
We want to feel safe and protected wherever we go and it is in part the work of security guards that helps us feel this way. In the course of their work, security guards conduct searches, protect employees, catch offenders and control access. Some have to write reports outlining their observations and activities during their shifts. Guards assigned to static positions work at one place, like a doorway or checkpoint. In Virginia security guards must be registered with or certified by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.
Summary of: http://www3.ccps.virginia.edu/career_prospects/briefs/E-J/Guards.shtml
The new law takes effect July 1, 2000, and effects guards working on school property for more than 20 hours per week. The student will be provided with an understanding of the school security officer's authority both on and off duty. FTES Table of Organization Administrative Roles a. Classified Staff Ancillary Groups a. The student will be provided with an understanding of crimes as they relate to on-campus violations.
Summary of: http://www.dca.ca.gov/bsis/syllabus.htm
They also monitor perimeter security, heating, cooling and lighting systems, communications, and other systems. Another development is the growing number of patrol men and women "for hire" in residential areas. Armed guards in patrol cars promise 24-hour service and fast response. Other tasks may include making sure that electrical and plumbing systems, alarms, and sprinkler systems are on or working properly. For some employers, guards drive and protect armored trucks carrying money or other valuables.
Summary of: http://www.calmis.cahwnet.gov/file/occguide/SECURGRD.HTM
The Act also requires that all private security training must be approved and that all private security trainers must be certified. The Division of Criminal Justice Services, Office of Public Safety provides administrative oversight for private security training in New York State. If you have questions about licensing or registration, you must direct them to the Division of Licensing Services. You can also get answers to many of your licensing questions at the Department of State web site. For more information about private security training, please select from the Local Menu options.
Summary of: http://criminaljustice.state.ny.us/ops/sgtraining/
Kenneth L.
Summary of: http://www.sucss.state.il.us/documents/ClassSpecs/htm/SPEC4210_2000.htm