Security guards keep an eye on the site to prevent fire, theft, and vandalism. They are responsible for the safety of all persons, including residents, employees, guests, and visitors. Guards have handguns, handcuffs, and pepper spray and may be required by law enforcement to use force against violators.
But these privileges don’t come by easily. You may need to complete a certificate or postsecondary training in security, depending on your employer. Security guard must be licensed in most states, and all training takes place on the job. Security guards do not require a high school diploma.
What are the steps to becoming a security officer?
Although you don’t usually need to have a degree to work as a security guard, it is a good idea to have a high standard of education. Experience in the armed forces or police could be helpful.
Employers will conduct background checks that can go back as far as ten years. You will also need to inform them about any criminal convictions.
A front-line license is required if you work for an agency or contractor that provides security services to clients. You must meet the following requirements to be eligible for this:
- You must be 18 years old or older
- Complete the relevant SIA training
- Before applying for work, you can complete an approved SIA course at a college.
- Pass identity and criminal record checks
What does it take to be a security guard?
Licensure
For armed security guards who needs to obtain firearms licensure, the requirements for licensing are usually more stringent. Many states require security guards to be approved. While eligibility varies from one state to the next, most applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a clean criminal history, and pass a drug screen. In addition, for security guards, formal training may be required in a classroom setting.
Training
Employers prefer applicants who have at least a high school diploma or the equivalent. But security guards do not need to have a high school diploma. Like those in security or investigation at casinos -certain positions do, however, require postsecondary certificates or degrees.
Certificate
Many community colleges and technical schools offer security-guard training programs that can lead to certificates. The curriculum for certificate programs may include hands-on training on job sites and yearly continuing education courses. These programs can fulfill state licensure requirements and may vary in length depending on the state. These programs typically include a system in basic training that covers crowd management, first aid, disaster response, ethics, patrol techniques, and other essential topics.
On-the-Job Training
A security guard with a weapon typically has more extensive training than those without. High-security workers often undergo extensive training and strict supervision. They might learn how to defend themselves, give first aid and manage emergencies and write reports. They may also learn firearm safety laws and force laws. Most security guards receive instruction on the job. However, training duration and depth will vary depending on the employer and job duties.
Undergraduate Degree
Security guards may have an advantage in their search for employment if they have a postsecondary degree in criminal justice or law enforcement science. Some security companies prefer applicants who have a postsecondary degree. If you have a degree in security management, investigation techniques, criminal law, or juvenile justice, your chances are brighter.
Bottom Line
Security is a prospective career. We have just made it a bit easier for you to understand what it takes to be a security guard. We hope this guide will help you with your job application. Tell us if you think we missed something.
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