Security Guard Job Description

Being employed as a security officer can be a great career choice, especially for those looking to enter the field of law enforcement or even for those exiting a law enforcement or military career. The duties, responsibilities, and training needed in this industry have from strong similarities to these associated fields, and while a security officer – sometimes called a security guard – may not take the heightened risk that comes with being in law enforcement or the military, it is nonetheless an occupation where professionalism and strong skill sets are necessary to succeed.

Security Officer Job Description

Although details of the job description for a security officer may vary from position to position, the foundation elements of any employment assignment as a security guard in the United States will include the following job description:

Is responsible for guarding, patrolling, monitoring, and protecting physical premises, personnel, and visitors to prevent damage, criminal activity, violent actions, or infractions of rules and regulations

Duties & Responsibilities of a Security Officer

As a part of being employed as a security guard, there are certain core duties and responsibilities that are a part of each assignment.

Secure the premises and personnel: typically by using a combination of patrols, surveillance equipment, gates and enclosures, and scanning equipment

Prevent thefts and losses: by responding to alarms and irregular sounds and scanning the area for criminal activity

Maintain the rules & regulations: that are outlined by the corporation/organization for not only safety purposes, but often now for legal and insurance compliance purposes as well

Complete reports of observations and incidents: document all irregularities or incidents to aid in not only prosecution, if necessary, but also for insurance claims, security audits, and to assist employer in improving overall security measures

Skills Required to Be a Security Officer

Depending on the type of security guard jobs you are applying for – an unarmed security guard job or an armed security guard job – additional skills may be required. However, any and all security officer assignments will require the following core skills:

• Verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to control conversation through discussion and commands
• Ability to resolve conflicts
• Ability to work as a team and with the public
• High level of attentiveness and awareness of surroundings
• Strong decision-making abilities
• Ability to create reports and logs – recommended ability to use a word processor like Microsoft® Word®
• Keyboard/typing skills recommended
• Ability to lift objects – recommended that you are able to lift over 50lbs.
• Ability to be on feet/in-motion for long periods of time

 

Additional training based upon the type of security officer job could include:

• Firearms training
• Fire rescue and first responder skills
• Use of advanced technical surveillance equipment
• Use of specialized security equipment such as scanners, metal detectors, and the like

Many of the “best” security guards reflect certain characteristics such as being trustworthy, keenly aware, brave, confident and are fit.

Eligibility & Requirements

Just like the required skills, the eligibility and requirements to be employed as a security officer can be dependent on city, county, or state regulations as well as any additional requirements placed upon the role by the employer. It is recommended that you research the security guard requirements in your local area prior to seeking employment, however, a standard set of eligibility and requirements may include:

• Must be a valid US citizen (for employment within the United States) or resident alien
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must have a clear background with no felonies or misdemeanors in relation to violence
• Oftentimes must either have direct or associated experience in some form of security, law enforcement, or military service, OR have taken and passed approved training courses

In many states, a person seeking to be employed as a security guard must be registered and licensed by the state, county, or city they plan to work in. It is recommended to research these license requirements and any associated application processes prior to seeking employment.