With a high school diploma or GED it is possible to begin pursuing a career in private security. In some states, a license may be required, and experience or training may be an asset to those trying to find employment in this field. Some career options include working as a security guard, or becoming a private investigator.
Essential Information
Those interested in protecting property and the public may be interested in a career in private security. The type of work performed varies by employer and may range from protecting banks and office buildings to providing personal bodyguard or investigative services. A state license or certification is typically needed to work in private security.
| Career | Security Guard | Private Investigator |
| Required Education | High school diploma; Limited postsecondary education may be required | High school diploma |
| Other Requirements | Licensure may be required by the state; prior military or police experience is highly valued | Previous law enforcement experience; state licensure |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)* | 3% for security guards and gaming surveillance officers | 8% private detectives and investigators |
| Average Salary (2020)* | $34,360 for security guards | $60,100 private detectives and investigators |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Job Options
Individuals working in private security may work in various occupations, depending on the needs of their employer. Private security officers and guards are used to patrol shopping malls and office buildings, while others guard private estates and public places, including airports, museums and rail stations. Private security guards may work for an agency that assigns the work, be self-employed or work directly for a business as a full-time employee.
Private Security
Private security professionals are responsible for protecting their clients through lawful practices. A person or entity hires these individuals for a specific purpose, which may include preventing thefts at a store or to protecting personal property after business hours. Depending on the job, private security professionals may work in a specific location or they may patrol a larger area. Some private security positions include security guard, armored car guard or personal bodyguard. According to projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there will be 3% job growth for security guards and gaming surveillance officers over the 2019-2029 period. May, 2020 average earnings for these guards were $34,360 annually.
Private Investigation
Another occupation for individuals interested in this field is a private investigator. Private investigators work for clients or agencies and are generally responsible for gathering facts about a specific incident or situation and reporting about them. Private investigators may observe and gather information remotely, in-person through interviews or by other means necessary, depending on the assignment. A private investigator may work for local, state or federal government. Some investigative jobs include forensic investigators, corporate investigators and legal investigators. Private detectives and investigators from 2019-2029 are projected to have 8% growth. The BLS reported May, 2020 average earnings of $60,100 for these professionals.
Requirements
Private security positions require individuals to have a familiarity with the law and meticulous observational skills, but other requirements may vary. Many states require security professionals to be licensed, and additional licensing requirements must be met if security professionals carry firearms. Basic requirements include a background check, references, proof of relevant experience and an examination.
Because private security professionals may be responsible for the safety of others, they must be able to respond quickly to situations and work long or erratic hours. Most private security positions require at least some college education or an associate's degree that includes a focus on criminal justice and law courses. Generally, previous experience in police work or the military is considered relevant experience and is preferred.
Security guards may patrol malls, airports, estates or other locations as required by their employer. Some also work as bodyguards. Private investigators are hired to investigate a specific incident or situation, and may need to perform surveillance, gather evidence and interview witnesses before making a report to their employer.
