A Practical Career Path in a Security Guard Job with Real Opportunities
There are many misconceptions about the security guard employment opportunities available in the United States. Many people assume that security guard jobs are either temporary jobs or low-skilled jobs when in reality, they are both much more than this; in fact, security guards provide an important service to society, protecting everything from hospitals to corporate offices to airports, as well as tech company campuses.
Based on my research of the U.S. labor market and the interviews I have conducted with professionals working within the security field, I believe that a security guard job has the potential to be not only a solid career choice, but also a way to gain access to a future law enforcement position or, in addition, a way for them to enter into the workforce after immigrating to the United States.
This guide is intended to cover more than just job descriptions, and will provide opportunities, job requirements, job salaries, job challenges, and job growth for the security industry.
Security Guard Jobs Are One of the Fastest Growing Job Descriptions Currently in Demand in America.
Due to the explosive growth of commercial buildings such as malls and warehouses, and the rising awareness surrounding public safety, the expansion of the private security industry over the past decade has resulted in a massive increase in demand for Security Guards across America. In addition, the need for Security Guards within Hospitals, Schools, as well as Events, has grown exponentially over the past few years. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that there are 100s of thousands of Security Guard Jobs available throughout the country, and hiring for these positions is steady throughout the year. Security Guard positions are available year round as they are needed 24/7, unlike most seasonal jobs which only operate at certain times of the year.
Types of Security Guard Jobs are available in America
Security Guards have the flexibility to choose their roles based on Skills, Physical Ability, and career goals.
- Armed Security Guard. Armed Security Guards are required to complete appropriate Firearm Training, as well as Background Checks; and they typically earn a higher salary than unarmed Security Guard Positions. Armed Security Guards are typically used to protect Financial Institutions, Government Buildings, and High-Risk areas.
- Unarmed Security Guard. This position represents one of the most common entry-level roles and provides protection to locations such as Offices, Malls, Schools, and Hospitals. Unarmed security guards focus primarily on Observation, Access Control, and reporting Security incidents.
- Corporate Security
Provides protection of executives, data centers, and other corporate properties
Typically consists of surveillance and access management
More financially rewarding and provide opportunities for professional growth
- Temporary and Event-Based Security
Concerts, sporting events, exhibits, etc.
Good short-term income
Great for individuals with flexible schedules
- Security Specialist Positions
i.e., Hospital Security, Airport/Transportation Security, Cyber-Physical Security Coordination
Each of these positions provides a unique opportunity to gain experience in this field.
Minimum Qualifications for Security Guard Employment in the United States
While each state may have specific requirements for this occupation, several standards for the majority of states are the same:
- Minimum age of 18 or 21 years (depends upon state).
- Must be legally able to work in the United States.
- High School diploma (might require equivalent).
- No criminal record.
- Must have state-approved training OR a license.
- Certain states will require finger printing, while others will require that you complete ongoing training. If you want to be an armed security guard, you will need to obtain an additional certification and permit for your weapon.
Salary and Benefits: How Much Can You Make?
Security guards in the USA have salaries that depend on location, experience level, and job type.
Average Salary Range:
Unarmed guards start around $14 to $18 per hour (entry level)
Armed guards start at about $20 and up to $30 per hour (experienced)
Corporate/Specialized Security pays $35+ hourly
Most full-time security positions include:
Health Benefits
Paid Overtime
Night Differentials
Career Development Programs
Hotels/Restaurants in New York, California, Texas, and Florida typically pay more than other parts of the US due to the cost of living and the demand for Security Guards.
Is a Security Guard Position an Opportunity for Immigrants?
Yes! This is one of the best industries for immigrants.
There are many employers that will offer hiring opportunities to:
Holders of Green Cards
Others on Work Visas (varies by employer)
Immigrants who have not yet developed much experience in the US
Security Guard Positions require trust and professionalism above all else – it is not critical to have perfect English or a graduate level degree. Security Guards often evolve into:
Supervisors
Investigation Specialists
Law Enforcement/Correction Personnel
Security Management
Real-life Challenges of a Security Guard Career
To provide an objective opinion about being a Security Guard, it is critical to understand the realities of being a Security Guard:
Remote work days that can include night shifts and weekends
Long hours of standing and/or patrolling
Dealing with angry, aggressive people
Extensive responsibility, limited room for error
Long-Term Growth and Career Opportunities
Working as a security guard does not have to be a “dead end” career; with experience and proper certifications, you can continue to advance your career into one of the following positions: Security Supervisor, Site Manager, Loss Prevention Manager or Private Security Consultant. Most large security companies will actively encourage employees to work up the ladder within their organisations, which gives you an excellent chance for upward mobility within the industry.
Ways to Quickly Find a Security Guard Job in the United States
If you are looking for a security guard position, here are some practical ways to expedite the process: go directly to the website of larger security companies and apply; take advantage of job postings on sites such as Glassdoor or Indeed; go in person and check out the smaller local security companies in your area; and reach out to and build relationships with other guards currently working in this industry.