Security Guard: The Ultimate Guide

Who is a Security Guard?

A security guard is a person who is employed to protect and safeguard property, people, and assets. They are responsible for deterring and detecting crime, enforcing rules and regulations, and responding to emergencies.

Responsibilities of a Security Guard:

Patrolling and monitoring property
Controlling access to buildings and grounds
Enforcing rules and regulations
Responding to alarms and emergencies
Providing first aid and medical assistance

Types of Security Guards

There are many different types of security guards, each with their own specific set of responsibilities. Some of the most common types of security guards include:

Armed security guards
Unarmed security guards
Mobile security guards
Foot patrol security guards
Event security guards

Training and Qualifications

The specific training and qualifications required to become a security guard vary from state to state. However, most states require security guards to undergo a minimum amount of training before they can be employed. This training typically includes instruction on:

Crime prevention
Emergency response
First aid
Physical security
State laws and regulations

Career Outlook

The job outlook for security guards is expected to be good over the next few years. This is due to the increasing demand for security services in a variety of settings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of security guard jobs is projected to grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029.

Salary

The salary of a security guard varies depending on their experience, education, and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for security guards was $30,340 in May 2019. The lowest 10% of security guards earned less than $23,260, and the highest 10% earned more than $46,120.

Job Benefits

In addition to a salary, security guards may also receive a variety of job benefits, such as:

Health insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Paid time off
Retirement benefits