How to Get a Job as a Security Guard
"Someone aspiring to a career as a security officer should demonstrate a commitment to values such as integrity, vigilance, and helpfulness; a willingness for professional development; a focus on customer service; a desire to work as a team and an ability to utilize technology," said Rocco DeFelice, executive vice president of Securitas USA, in an email. A candidate will have ample opportunity to exhibit these qualities during the application process. As DeFelice explains, "The applicant should expect to complete an extensive application, which includes an assessment; go through a background investigation, to include a drug screen; participate in an in-depth interview; complete applicable licensing requirements and receive all necessary pre-assignment training." Another key quality employers look for is stability. According to Brian Dooling, vice president of marketing at U.S. Security Associates: "We want to see applicants who demonstrate some level of longevity with past employers, such as two years of tenure in each of the most recent jobs."
Interview Questions Submitted by Real Security Guards
"Can you leap over tall buildings in a single bound?" - George Fox University Campus Security Guard Candidate (Newberg, OR)
"Why do you want to be a guard?" - Lockheed Martin Security Guard Candidate (Location Unknown)
"Can you pass a drug and background check?" - AlliedBarton Security Guard Candidate (Location Unknown)
What is the Job Like?
"The nature of each post is unique, but there are two general divisions: stationary or patrol positions. In either role, your watchful presence will hopefully deter the crimes your employer worries about. In theory, if no incidents occur, you've done your job well. This absence of punctuated events can lead to underappreciation. Many people do not stay in this occupation for very long and frequently consider it a part-time gig. Should you remain in a large security team for an extended period of time, you are likely to see promotions to supervising and managing roles. Opportunities for advancement are restricted to the size and needs of your employer. Dooling says, "Someone who has the ability to work all shifts, any day of the week, will have an advantage as management will view that person as someone willing to do whatever is takes to be successful."
Real Reviews From Security Guards
+ "It's a good job if you like to be alone." - AlliedBarton Security Guard (Oakland, CA)
+ "Excellent benefit package, generally same schedule from week to week, friendly staff, great pay, free parking for staff, discounts at the museum shop and restaurant." - Baltimore Museum of Art Security Guard (Baltimore, MD)
- "Pay depends on your location. Sometimes you would be unarmed in a place where you probably needed a weapon or two." - Securitas Security Services USA Security Guard (St. Louis, MO)
- "Not enough hours; Don't always know what is new in company." - Whelan Security Security Guard (Location Unknown)
Review information and interview questions supplied by Glassdoor.
