Security Guards

Deterring criminal activity in any way, shape or form, is what security guards `do'. Thus, increased potential risk is ever-present. Monitoring (for example by close-circuit television), on duty screening and/or even patrol by foot, car, bike or mounted patrol, is possible. Armed or unarmed, uniformed or plain-clothed/undercover depends on assignment, location and situation. Shift-work is commonplace and can include all-nighters, weekend and holiday work.

Security Guards protect people, property and information. In this role, many dedicated professionals deal with safety and security, safeguarding and protecting interest, people, life and property. This group of individuals include security guards and all other related workers, who look out for property against theft, vandalism, robbery, control access to any event and physical location, room or environment, maintain order and enforce regulation, policy and law at public events or within organizations and institutions.

Many police and law enforcement officers pursue this as a part-time, second or career re-entry point. There are also volunteer positions for retired professionals who would still like to form part of and contribute meaningfully to society. You may enjoy and pride yourself in work well done and demonstrate competence in a range of tasks, such as deliberately controlling access to establishments, checking identification, doing body searches and other security checks, issuing passes and directing visitors to appropriate areas, patrolling assigned areas, on foot or in vehicles, to guard against theft, shoplifting, vandalism and fire. Additional tasks include, enforcing regulations of an establishment to maintain order and operating security control-room equipment to monitor establishment activities, performing security checks of passengers and luggage at airports. The list is endless and again includes roles involving driving and guarding armored trucks, delivering cash and valuables to banks, automated teller machines and retail establishments. The job of a security guard is overall, ensuring that establishment safety and emergency procedures are followed, and ensure adequate and compliant responses to fire alarms, bomb threats and other emergencies. For most serious-minded career-seekers, there will almost certainly be positions available for years to come.

Public safety has been such a priority since 9/11, global threats of terrorism keep fueling the fire of increased security consciousness. Global disasters, like the recent spell of hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes and tsunami, all attest to the need to upkeep some sense of order. All these factors combine, to allow for growth in this area. For some security guards, it is a useful part-time, second and/or seasonal career (think shoplifting screeners for holiday shopping, increased airport screeners during major travel/holiday rush and many more).

Focusing on what your personal impact was during prior roles and how you contributed to `crime prevention', will help you to not only impress, but also secure opportunity with potential new employers, looking for that alert champion of their safety, protecting their assets and people.

Characterized by sometimes limited formal training requirements and flexible hours, it appeals to a wide audience of candidates. There is also an increased need for global security, in the on-going war against terrorism and emphasis on national and international safety and security. This trend will in all likelihood continue to create new opportunities in this field. Competition will be fierce and there are part-time or second-job opportunities for those who look to supplement their main source of income.

Most companies will advertise directly, through classifieds and online postings, (see security staff), or increasingly make use of outsourcing to private security agencies and firms. Recruitment firms are used by most corporate and high-profile organizations to fill their available positions.

Employers could be private security companies, retail stores, industrial concerns, museums or corporations, office and government buildings.

Job-related and applicable certifications such as first aid, report writing or crisis interventions, as well as any specialist training (self-defense, martial arts, weapons permits etc.) will serve you well. In almost all areas, security guards are required to be licensed. The process of licensing, involves some classroom training and education and successfully passing a background check. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age and able to successfully pass a drug screening.

It is standard procedure to undergo drug screenings, given on a random basis in most security related employment fields. Security clearance, additional and special requirements are necessary for armed security guards or numerous specialist positions. The better paying opportunities, assignments and even advancement opportunities are within reach of career- guards and professionals, with the aforementioned certification and even possibly a permit to carry a weapon.

Career-related, on-the-job training for newer recruits is typical and to be expected. Depending on the location, specialty and industry, it will vary in timing, length, scope and nature.

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