Security Guards
Complete Security Guards career guide. Discover required skills, average salary, day-to-day responsibilities, interview tips, and resume templates.
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Salary Data
Median ~$41k — know your worth
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What Does a Security Guards Do?
Guard, patrol, or monitor premises to prevent theft, violence, or infractions of rules. May operate x-ray and metal detector equipment.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
- 1Lock doors and gates of entrances and exits to secure buildings.
- 2Patrol industrial or commercial premises to prevent and detect signs of intrusion and ensure security of doors, windows, and gates.
- 3Respond to medical emergencies by administering basic first aid or by obtaining assistance from paramedics.
- 4Answer alarms and investigate disturbances.
- 5Circulate among visitors, patrons, or employees to preserve order and protect property.
- 6Monitor and authorize entrance and departure of employees, visitors, and other persons to guard against theft and maintain security of premises.
- 7Write reports of daily activities and irregularities, such as equipment or property damage, theft, presence of unauthorized persons, or unusual occurrences.
- 8Warn persons of rule infractions or violations, and apprehend or evict violators from premises, using force when necessary.
Required Skills
- Active Listening
- Corel WordPerfect Office Suite
- FaceTime
- IBM Lotus 1-2-3
- McAfee
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Word
- NortonLifeLock cybersecurity software
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Security Guards Salary
Entry
$35k
Mid-level
$41k
Senior
$46k
Security Guards FAQs
What skills do I need to become a Security Guards?
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Key skills for Security Guards include Active Listening. Strong foundational knowledge in your field plus continuous learning is essential.
How much does a Security Guards make?
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Security Guards salaries vary based on experience, location, and employer. Visit our salary guide section for detailed compensation data.
What does a Security Guards do day-to-day?
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Guard, patrol, or monitor premises to prevent theft, violence, or infractions of rules. May operate x-ray and metal detector equipment.
How long does it take to become a Security Guards?
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The path to becoming a Security Guards varies. Many enter the field with a bachelor's degree (4 years) plus 1-3 years of entry-level experience, though bootcamps and self-study routes are increasingly common.
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