Become a Security Guard

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Security guards and surveillance officers protect property, maintain security, and enforce regulations and standards of conduct.

As a security guard, you may work in banks, hotels, hospitals, retail stores, restaurants, bars and schools, or for building-management companies and governments. Gaming surveillance officers work exclusively in casinos and other legal gaming facilities.

Security Guard: Education & Training

While there are no academic requirements to become a security guard, a 2-year associate's degree program or a 1-to-2 semester certificate program in a criminal justice-related area is helpful if you want to be a security guard or surveillance officer, or be promoted to a managerial position. Surveillance officers receive training in a casino-like atmosphere using surveillance camera equipment. Armed guards receive formal training in areas such as weapons retention (keeping your weapon safe during a physical attack), self defense and the laws covering the use of force. Guards employed by the federal government must have some experience in the occupation, pass a written examination, and pass firearms and first aid tests to be certified by the US General Services Administration.

Security Guard: Certification & Licensing

Most states require that security guards be licensed. Requirements vary widely but in most states, applicants must be at least 18 years old, pass a background check and a drug test, and complete classroom training in such subjects as property rights, emergency procedures, and detention of suspected criminals.

Security Guard: Salary

Guards in the federal government earned between $21,950 to $28,960 per year in 2001. Gaming surveillance officers and gaming investigators earned between $18,080 and $25,950 in 2001.

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