Security guards are responsible for the protection of premises from burglary, fire, property destruction, and forbidden actions. They are responsible for ensuring laws are obeyed and criminal activity is prevented. Some guards remain in one position, and some patrol throughout the premise. Guards who are stationary are required to keep an eye on CCTV cameras and equipment as well as watch people entering and leaving the premise. Those who travel throughout the premise ensure the security of the company by inspecting the people who come and go and deliveries that occur.
Sometimes the hours of work may be cumbersome, especially if one does night duty. Many people enjoy this field because of the flexibility of work hours.
No college level education is required but most employers like to hire individuals who have at least a high school diploma or GED. For higher level security jobs like gaming surveillance security professionals some college may be required.
Security guards must have a driver's license, especially if controlling and analyzing outdoor activity is involved. Armed security guards may need to have experience in various fields to qualify for employment. A security official must have an eye for detail and observation. It is important to have good communication and writing skills to prepare reports to communicate with company officials regarding suspicious issues.
Many companies offer a training program for the security personnel they hire before beginning the job and delegating assignments. The training includes how to protect the premise. Armed security guards receive training on how to use weapons and information on the laws of using force. The amount of training will depend on the specialty.
Training also includes how to handle public relations, how to submit reports, first aid, how to prevent criminal activity, and instructions related to the assignment given.
In many states, training is mandatory. More states are beginning to enforce this issue to decrease crime rates. There are guidelines set by the American Society for Industrial Security International to help companies develop training programs. The agency recommends each security officer receive at least 48 hours of training during the first 100 days of being employed. An examination must be passed to obtain the licensing required to become a professional in physical security.
The possibilities for advancement are very good in this field, especially with experience and some college after high school. In larger companies, security managers are required to run the department staff. Security officers have job security and advance because many people do not remain in the field. Manager positions will require the knowledge of management and a high level of experience with all aspects of security.
In 2006, more than 1 million people had jobs in the security field. Fifty percent of the jobs were with investigative service and security service companies who were hired to perform security services. Hospitals, schools, and department stores also regularly hire individuals for physical security services.
Companies large and small will require services to prevent crimes from taking place and to replace people who have left the workforce for various reasons. The highest growth level will be related to gaming surveillance guards. The growth rate expected overall is approximately 17%, according to statistics released by the federal government. Approximately 175,000 new jobs will be created over a period of 10 years.
The average salary of a security guard was $21,500 in 2006. The highest paid guards earned higher than $35,000 annually. Gaming surveillance guards and investigators earned an average of $27,000 per year. The lowest paid guards earned $18,000 and the highest paid gaming officers earned nearly $46,000.
The salary of those who worked in hospitals, schools, and governments ranges from $20,000 to $26,000.
There are plenty of jobs available for those who wish to have a professional career in this field. The field is growing due to the expanding need for service providers and protection as well as to replace the turnover.
