How To Become A Security Guard
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Maintain Order and Enforce Regulations as a Security Guard
Although being a police officer seems to sound more prestigious than working as a security guard, many former law enforcement agents work as guards since there are many opportunities available. It is also not a job to scoff at in terms of danger or risk, since both armed and unarmed security guards can face precarious situations while on patrol. It is a job to be taken seriously and as such, usually requires workers to become licensed. It is a job though, that is on the rise compared to other careers in criminal justice, with the US Bureau of Labor Statistics declaring a 14% increase in new jobs, and the more training or relevant experience you have, the better your chances. According to payscale.com, having a stronger background going in can also increase your earning potential from about $26,000 to closer to $34,000, so although post-secondary education is not necessary required, it is in your best interest to pursue it.
Post-Secondary Educational Recommendations
Having a high school diploma is usually enough to apply to be a security guard, but if you want to further your career or have the opportunity for advancement, you should consider taking more academic training. A 2 year associate's degree is already a strong option, but a 4 year bachelor's degree would be better in areas like corrections, criminal justice or law enforcement. To speed up the process, you can even do your criminal justice degree online at places like Liberty University Online or the University of Phoenix Online. Because many security guards are former law enforcement agents, it is likely that they have already obtained their degrees to get into law enforcement in the first place, so to remain competitive you should at least match their education. Furthermore, most states will require you to become licensed, and if you will work as an armed guard, you also need a firearm license. The bottom line is that getting formally trained will give you added preparation for the job, as it will teach you how to write detailed reports, how to detain a suspect and basic self defense.
Job Objectives
A security guard is essentially meant to provide security and deter criminal from the facility he is guarding. They may be on patrol duty or in a fixed position, and they may be armed or unarmed. Additionally, if something happens, they may need to interview witnesses, write reports and give a testimony as to the events. There are many environments a guard could find himself working in, in both the public and private sectors, and there are more advanced positions to strive for, like being a guard in an armored car, which is a more lucrative position. It does help to have some sort of law enforcement background to go straight for the higher paying jobs, because as a beginner, you will most likely only have access to lower risk opportunities where you will be unarmed. With the high demand for guards though, finding work and moving up shouldn't be difficult, but if you are serious about starting a career as a security guard, why not give yourself the best chances and prepare yourself beforehand?
Criminal Justice Degree |
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