Security officers protect people and property in a variety of settings. With a high school diploma it is possible to enter the field as a security officer. Self-defense training, firearms training and, in some cases, a bachelor's degree may also be required.
Essential Information
Security officers protect people, assets or property from criminal activity or harm. Education requirements vary based on the position, ranging from a high school diploma to a degree in criminal justice or law enforcement. Weapons training might be necessary for some jobs. People interested in a public service career might find this option appealing, and job opportunities are projected to see average growth.
| Required Education | High school diploma or GED; bachelor's degree in some cases |
| Other Requirements | Self defense training; firearm training (depending on the position) |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)* | 3% for all security guards |
| Median Annual Salary (2020)* | $31,050 for all security guards |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Salary Info
In May 2020, the BLS reported that workers in the 90th percentile or higher earned $51,600 or more per year, whereas the bottom 10th percentile earned $21,930 or less per year. The job prospects are promising for this field, with the expected growth rate estimated to be slower than the average through 2029. Continued concern regarding theft, terrorism, vandalism and other crime ensures that the employment of safety and security personnel remain necessary, states the BLS (www.bls.gov).
Duties
Security officers generally serve a contract or proprietary security department. They are assigned to protect people, assets or property from criminal activity or harm. Depending on the location and nature of their work, security officers may or may not be armed.
The duties of security officers depend largely on whether they are assigned to a stationary post or a mobile patrol. Those at a stationary post are required to stand watch at their specific location for a set amount of time. They closely monitor the property and people at their specific location and often have access to alarms and video surveillance. Security officers with a mobile patrol walk or drive within an assigned area, looking out for any potential criminal or safety concerns and making the appropriate arrests and citations.
Education and Training Requirements
Educational standards for security officers generally differ based on the specific position desired, particularly with regard to whether or not that position is armed. Armed guard positions typically require a minimum of a high school diploma and appropriate firearm training, which includes regular testing and continued education on the appropriate use of force. They often typically undergo training on self-defense and prevention techniques. More advanced security positions also require completion of a degree program in criminal justice or law enforcement.
Because of the great responsibilities and potential risks involved with becoming a security officer, the hiring process is often very thorough. Candidates must have no serious criminal background, be mentally competent, possess strong character references and be in good physical condition.
Those interested in pursuing a career as a security officer must be in good physical condition and demonstrate relevant skills by taking self-defense training and firearms training; formal education requirements vary. Some venues security guards are employed at include public buildings, retail stores, office buildings and casinos. In 2020, the median salary for security officers was almost $31,000.
