Become a Security Guard
Security Guards Protect Property and Enforce the Law
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.
You will greatly benefit from earning a degree in criminal justice or security management if you aspire to any of the higher-paying jobs.
Security Guard Education and 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 U.S. General Services Administration.
Security Guard: Certification and 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
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for security guards was $26,430 in 2009, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $40,230.
Gaming surveillance officers and gaming investigators earned an average annual wage of $32,460, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $48,760.
If this careers seems like it would be a good fit for you, get the security guard training you need to succeed. Or look into security management programs, and supervise others while they keep us all safe.
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