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What Do Security Guard Do?

Security Guard Job Description Guard, patrol, or monitor premises to prevent theft, violence, or infractions of rules. May operate x-ray and metal detector equipment.

Security Guard Responsibilities

  • Lock doors and gates of entrances and exits to secure buildings.
  • Respond to medical emergencies by administering basic first aid or by obtaining assistance from paramedics.
  • Answer alarms and investigate disturbances.
  • Answer telephone calls to take messages, answer questions, and provide information during non-business hours or when switchboard is closed.
  • Inspect and adjust security systems, equipment, or machinery to ensure operational use and to detect evidence of tampering.
  • Escort or drive motor vehicle to transport individuals to specified locations or to provide personal protection.

Security Guard Skills

Security Guards state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Coordination: Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

  • Floorwalker
  • Gate Keeper
  • Floorperson
  • Bodyguard
  • Door Tender

Job Outlook for Security Guards

In 2016, there was an estimated number of 1,123,300 jobs in the United States for Security Guard. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 6.3% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 70,600 new jobs for Security Guard by 2026. There will be an estimated 157,500 positions for Security Guard per year.

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The states with the most job growth for Security Guard are Utah, Washington, and Tennessee. Watch out if you plan on working in Maine, Connecticut, or Wisconsin. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

What is the Average Salary of a Security Guard

The average yearly salary of a Security Guard ranges between $20,290 and $49,650.

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Security Guards who work in Alaska, District of Columbia, or Washington, make the highest salaries.

How much do Security Guards make in each U.S. state?

State Annual Mean Salary
Alabama $26,470
Alaska $47,190
Arizona $29,200
Arkansas $29,330
California $33,070
Colorado $34,890
Connecticut $34,950
Delaware $28,370
District of Columbia $44,010
Florida $27,790
Georgia $29,100
Hawaii $33,330
Idaho $33,330
Illinois $33,560
Indiana $30,180
Iowa $28,890
Kansas $29,140
Kentucky $24,950
Louisiana $28,540
Maine $30,200
Maryland $36,650
Massachusetts $35,290
Michigan $27,840
Minnesota $34,240
Mississippi $25,750
Missouri $37,620
Montana $28,080
Nebraska $34,550
Nevada $30,090
New Hampshire $36,140
New Jersey $32,250
New Mexico $28,990
New York $35,820
North Carolina $31,230
North Dakota $35,420
Ohio $31,400
Oklahoma $31,800
Oregon $29,940
Pennsylvania $28,750
Rhode Island $30,920
South Carolina $33,000
South Dakota $29,880
Tennessee $29,940
Texas $30,090
Utah $33,870
Virginia $36,270
Washington $38,470
West Virginia $27,590
Wisconsin $28,640
Wyoming $32,310

What Tools do Security Guards Use?

Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Security Guards may use on a daily basis:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Office
  • Data entry software
  • Microsoft SharePoint
  • Symantec
  • McAfee
  • Corel WordPerfect Office Suite
  • IBM Lotus 1-2-3
  • Wireshark

How do I Become a Security Guard?

What education is needed to be a Security Guard?

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How many years of work experience do I need?

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Where do Security Guards Work?

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The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.

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You May Also Be Interested In…

Those interested in being a Security Guard may also be interested in:

Career changers with experience as a Security Guard sometimes find work in one of the following fields:

References:

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More about our data sources and methodologies.

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