In general, the physical security training is basic and doesn’t require a formal education. Those who are planning on a job that requires being armed will have more certifications and physical security schools they need to attend than those who don’t. Guards that are armed will have to qualify for a permit and undergo extensive background checks periodically. There are several physical security programs that will require specific job training in addition to the general physical security programs. Most positions require a driver’s license and that you are 18 years old. Since no formal education is needed it is a very appealing job to those who are earning one. Many positions are part time work that has a flexible schedule.
One of the appealing avenues of becoming a physical security professional (PSP) is that you can choose who you work for and what kind of work you do. A reputation as an independent PSP can generate business from individual home owners to large organizations. Most people choose not to make this line of work their profession, but it can become one. Some who choose to make this their profession have specialized in physical security engineering, which requires a formal degree in engineering. The avenues of physical security are boundless stretching out into international waters.
Police officers make up a large majority of security guards. They find the line of work similar to their police officer duties and don’t need any extra training. The jobs are perfect for them, because many positions are part time shift work so they can maintain a full time police career.
The job outlook for a security profession is on the rise, and over the next 10 years it is supposed to raise 17%. Although it is a smaller than average job market it is growing faster than the average rate. Casinos have also changed their regulations creating more security technical teams. This will increase the job market for security professionals and hopefully improve the security policies. More and more security companies are upgrading their systems and creating new security technical jobs that require software management and security system installers. All these advances create new jobs within the security industry.
Any type of law enforcement job is difficult and has risks. An armed security guard has a very large chance of ending up in a high risk situation, but less responsibility is given to them decreasing those chances. Armed security guards also have more responsibility compared to unarmed security guards and receive a higher pay because of it. It is easy to receive advancements in this career because many don’t make this their profession.
The convenience and opportunity make this career choice premium. The work and job options are boundless and don’t have extreme restrictions. It works as a part time job or a full time career. The flexibility and availability set this career in a class of its own. It isn’t as publicized or held in such a high regard as a police officer or other law enforcement positions, but it is a basic form of law enforcement. If you are looking for a future career in law enforcement or are currently in law enforcement then this job would be a wonderful option for you. The on-the job experience will help prepare you for a career in law enforcement that you couldn’t get any other way. The flexibility of most of the positions would allow current law enforcement officers and employees to enjoy a similar part time job. Once you find a program that you like and that works for you in your area, attend the certification classes. Then, if it is an armed position, get your concealed carry permit and certification for handling and carrying a firearm. That is all that is required to start an Armed Security Officers Job. From there you can only work your way up!
