Updated: Feb 22, 2025

Looking for a stable job that offers good pay and room for advancement? Check out security jobs, where you can protect people, property, and businesses while building a rewarding career.

Security jobs are a great choice for people looking for steady employment with flexible hours and growth potential. From working as a security guard at a retail store to protecting high-profile buildings or even becoming a bodyguard, there are many paths in the security field. Some positions require specialized training, while others offer on-the-job experience, making security jobs accessible to people with different backgrounds and skill levels.

In this guide, we’ll break down different types of security jobs, the skills required, how much you can earn, and how to get started in the industry.

What Do Security Jobs Involve?

Security jobs focus on protecting people, property, and assets from theft, vandalism, or other threats. The duties can vary based on the type of security job but may include:

• Monitoring security cameras and alarms
• Patrolling buildings or outdoor areas
• Checking identification and controlling access to restricted areas
• Responding to security breaches or emergencies
• Writing reports on incidents and suspicious activities

Some security jobs require physical strength and quick decision-making, while others focus more on observation and reporting.

Types of Security Jobs

There are several types of security jobs, each with different responsibilities and work environments.

👮 Security Guard

• What They Do: Monitor and patrol properties to prevent theft, vandalism, and trespassing.
• Where They Work: Retail stores, office buildings, apartment complexes, warehouses.
• Education Needed: High school diploma; security training or a license may be required.
• Average Pay: $14 – $22 per hour.

🏢 Corporate Security Officer

• What They Do: Protect company employees and assets from threats such as theft or unauthorized access.
• Where They Work: Large office buildings, financial institutions, corporate campuses.
• Education Needed: Some security experience; training and certification preferred.
• Average Pay: $16 – $25 per hour.

🏠 Residential Security Guard

• What They Do: Protect gated communities, apartment buildings, and private properties.
• Where They Work: Private residences, gated communities, condos.
• Education Needed: May require security guard certification.
• Average Pay: $15 – $20 per hour.

🏬 Retail Security / Loss Prevention Officer

• What They Do: Prevent shoplifting and theft in retail stores.
• Where They Work: Shopping malls, department stores, grocery stores.
• Education Needed: High school diploma; training in loss prevention is helpful.
• Average Pay: $13 – $19 per hour.

🎤 Event Security

• What They Do: Manage crowds and maintain safety at concerts, sports events, and large gatherings.
• Where They Work: Stadiums, music venues, conventions, festivals.
• Education Needed: Some states require security licensing.
• Average Pay: $14 – $22 per hour.

🚔 Armed Security Officer

• What They Do: Protect people and property with the use of firearms when necessary.
• Where They Work: Banks, government buildings, jewelry stores, VIP protection.
• Education Needed: Firearm permit, security training, and background check.
• Average Pay: $18 – $30 per hour.

💰 Bank Security Guard

• What They Do: Ensure the safety of customers and employees inside banks and financial institutions.
• Where They Work: Banks, credit unions, cash-handling facilities.
• Education Needed: Security training, may require experience.
• Average Pay: $16 – $25 per hour.

🚗 Security Driver / Bodyguard

• What They Do: Provide personal security and transportation for high-profile clients.
• Where They Work: Private security firms, celebrities, politicians, executives.
• Education Needed: Security training, background in law enforcement or military preferred.
• Average Pay: $25 – $50 per hour.

🏛 Government Security / TSA Agent

• What They Do: Screen passengers at airports or protect government buildings.
• Where They Work: Airports, government agencies, federal buildings.
• Education Needed: Federal security training and background check.
• Average Pay: $18 – $30 per hour.

Skills Needed for Security Jobs

To succeed in a security job, you’ll need:

✅ Attention to Detail – Being alert and noticing suspicious behavior is key.
✅ Good Communication – Security personnel must communicate with employees, visitors, and law enforcement.
✅ Physical Fitness – Some jobs require standing for long hours or responding to physical threats.
✅ Decision-Making Skills – Quick thinking is important in emergencies.
✅ Basic Security Training – Knowledge of security procedures and emergency response is essential.

How Much Do Security Jobs Pay?

Salaries depend on experience, job type, and location. Here are some average hourly wages:

• Unarmed Security Guard – $14 – $22 per hour
• Corporate Security Officer – $16 – $25 per hour
• Retail Security / Loss Prevention – $13 – $19 per hour
• Event Security – $14 – $22 per hour
• Armed Security Officer – $18 – $30 per hour
• Bank Security Guard – $16 – $25 per hour
• Bodyguard / Security Driver – $25 – $50 per hour

Some security jobs offer benefits like health insurance, overtime pay, and retirement plans.

Pros and Cons of Security Jobs

✅ Pros

✔ Steady Demand – Security jobs are always needed.
✔ Entry-Level Opportunities – Many jobs require little to no experience.
✔ Flexible Schedules – Options for part-time, full-time, and overnight shifts.
✔ Room for Advancement – Can lead to higher-paying roles in law enforcement or corporate security.

❌ Cons

✘ Long Hours – Some jobs require working nights, weekends, and holidays.
✘ Dealing with Difficult People – Handling aggressive individuals can be stressful.
✘ Potential Danger – Some positions involve risk, especially armed security jobs.
✘ Repetitive Work – Some roles involve standing or patrolling for long periods.

How to Get a Security Job

📜 1. Meet Basic Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old (21 for armed security jobs).
• Pass a background check and drug test.
• Have a high school diploma or GED.

🎓 2. Get Security Training & Licensing

• Some states require a security guard license, which involves training.
• Armed security jobs require firearm training and permits.

📋 3. Apply for Jobs

• Look for job openings at security companies, hospitals, retail stores, and corporate offices.
• Update your resume to highlight customer service, problem-solving, and observation skills.

📈 4. Gain Experience & Advance

• Work your way up to higher-paying roles like corporate security, armed security, or bodyguard positions.

Is a Security Job Right for You?

Security jobs are great for people who:

✅ Enjoy working in a fast-paced environment
✅ Are responsible and observant
✅ Want job stability and opportunities for advancement
✅ Can handle potential risks and high-pressure situations

If you’re looking for a career with job security, flexible schedules, and opportunities for growth, the security industry might be the perfect fit!