Security guard jobs in the USA are in high demand, with a projected job growth of 10% over the next decade. Learn about the different types of security guard jobs, salary and benefits, job requirements, and how to find a job.
Security guards play a vital role in keeping our communities safe. They protect people and property in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, businesses, and government buildings.
What is a security guard?
A security guard is a person who is responsible for protecting people and property from harm. They may do this by patrolling buildings and grounds, monitoring security cameras, and responding to alarms.
The importance of security guards in the USA
Security guards play an important role in keeping our communities safe. They help to deter crime, protect property, and respond to emergencies. Security guards are also often the first point of contact for people who are entering a building or area, and they can play a key role in customer service and security awareness.
Different types of security guard jobs
There are many different types of security guard jobs available in the USA. Some common types include:
- Armed security guards: These guards carry firearms and are responsible for protecting high-value assets and people.
- Unarmed security guards: These guards do not carry firearms and are typically responsible for patrolling buildings and grounds, monitoring security cameras, and responding to alarms.
- Mobile security guards: These guards patrol in vehicles and are responsible for protecting property and responding to incidents in a specific area.
- Concierge security guards: These guards work in buildings such as hotels and office buildings, and are responsible for greeting visitors, providing security information, and responding to incidents.
- Event security guards: These guards are responsible for providing security at events such as concerts, sporting events, and festivals.
How to become a security guard in the USA
The requirements for becoming a security guard vary from state to state. However, most states require security guards to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass a background check. Some states also require security guards to complete training in areas such as self-defence, first aid, and CPR.
Salary and benefits
The average salary for a security guard in the USA is $38,327 per year. However, salary can vary depending on experience, location, and type of security guard job. Some common benefits offered to security guards include health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, paid time off, and retirement benefits.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for security guards is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of security guards will grow 10% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by the need to protect people and property in a variety of settings.
Best States for Security Guard Jobs in the US
The best states for security guard jobs are those with large populations and major cities. These states typically have a higher demand for security guards. Some of the best states for security guard jobs include:
- California
- New York
- Florida
- Texas
- Illinois
Job requirements and qualifications
The job requirements and qualifications for security guard jobs vary depending on the type of job. However, most security guard jobs require applicants to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass a background check. Some states also require security guards to complete training in areas such as self-defense, first aid, and CPR.
Education and training requirements
The education and training requirements for security guard jobs vary depending on the state and the type of job. However, most states require security guards to have a high school diploma or GED. Some states also require security guards to complete training in areas such as self-defense, first aid, and CPR.
Experience requirements
The experience requirements for security guard jobs vary depending on the type of job. Some entry-level security guard jobs do not require any experience. However, other jobs, such as armed security guard jobs, may require several years of experience.
Personal qualities and skills
Important personal qualities and skills for security guards include:
- Communication skills: Security guards need to be able to communicate effectively with people from all walks of life.
- Observation skills: Security guards need to be able to observe their surroundings and identify potential threats.
- Problem-solving skills: Security guards need to be able to think critically and solve problems quickly and effectively.
- Physical fitness: Security guards need to be in good physical condition in order to perform their duties effectively.
Finding a security guard job
There are a number of ways to find a security guard job. Some common methods include:
- Searching online job boards: There are a number of online job boards that list security guard jobs. Some popular job boards include Indeed, Monster, and CareerBuilder.
- Contacting security guard companies: Many security guard companies have their own websites where you can search for job openings. You can also contact security guard companies directly to inquire about job openings.
- Networking with people in the security industry: Talk to your friends, family, and neighbors to see if they know of any security guard job openings. You can also network with people in the security industry at industry events and online forums.
Where to find security guard jobs
Security guard jobs can be found in a variety of settings, including:
- Schools: Security guards are often employed at schools to protect students and staff from harm.
- Hospitals: Security guards are also often employed at hospitals to protect patients, visitors, and staff from harm.
- Businesses: Businesses of all sizes often employ security guards to protect their property and employees from harm.
- Government buildings: Security guards are also employed at government buildings to protect employees and visitors from harm.
- Event venues: Security guards are often employed at event venues to protect attendees and staff from harm.
How to write a resume and cover letter
When writing a resume and cover letter for a security guard job, be sure to highlight your skills and experience that are relevant to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for an armed security guard job, be sure to highlight your experience with firearms and security training.
In your cover letter, be sure to explain why you are interested in the security guard position and why you are qualified for the job. You should also mention what you can offer the company and how you can contribute to their team.
How to prepare for a security guard interview
When preparing for a security guard interview, be sure to dress professionally and arrive on time. You should also be prepared to answer questions about your skills, experience, and qualifications.
Some common security guard interview questions include:
- Why are you interested in this security guard position?
- What are your skills and experience in security?
- How would you handle a situation where someone was trying to enter a building without authorization?
- How would you handle a situation where there was a medical emergency at the work site?
- What are your salary expectations?
Security guard career advancement
There are a number of ways to advance your security guard career. Some common career paths include:
- Promotions within your security guard company: Many security guard companies offer opportunities for advancement to their employees. For example, you may be able to be promoted to a supervisory position or a management position.
- Moving to a different security guard company: You may also be able to advance your career by moving to a different security guard company. Some security guard companies offer more opportunities for advancement than others.
- Starting your own security guard company: If you have the experience and the resources, you may be able to start your own security guard company.
Tips for advancing your security guard career
Here are some tips for advancing your security guard career:
- Get certified: There are a number of security guard certifications that you can earn. Getting certified can make you more marketable to potential employers and can help you advance your career.
- Network with people in the security industry: Attend industry events and online forums to network with people in the security industry. Networking can help you learn about job openings and can help you advance your career.
- Continue your education: There are a number of security guard training programs available. Continuing your education can help you learn new skills and can help you advance your career.
Sites to Find Security Guard Jobs in the USA
Summary
Security guard jobs are in high demand and offer a variety of benefits, including competitive pay, health insurance, and paid time off. Suppose you are interested in a career in security. In that case, there are a number of things you can do to get started, such as getting certified, networking with people in the industry, and continuing your education.
