Security Officer
What is the work like?
Security officers, or security guards, make sure that buildings, valuables or people are safe and secure. They help prevent theft and damage, and deal with emergencies.
As a security officer, you could work for a range of organisations and your role could vary depending on the industry you work in. Your duties could include:
- patrolling, securing and monitoring premises, sometimes with the aid of closed circuit television (CCTV)
- supervising on the door for a large organisation (check the Door Supervisor profile for details)
- guarding cash or other valuables in transit in a security vehicle
- airport security, which involves searching aircraft, passengers and luggage, and guarding the airport boundaries.
You would keep accurate records and write short reports, which may be used by the police or courts. Your duties could also involve customer care, signing-in visitors, giving directions and working with guard dogs (see the Dog Handler profile for details).
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You do not usually need academic qualifications to start work as a security officer, however, a good general standard of education would be helpful. Previous experience working in the police or armed forces could give you an advantage.
To work as a contracted security officer or guard, you need a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence - see the further training and development section below for details.
Employers will carry out checks on your personal and work history for up to ten years, and you will need to declare any criminal convictions.
What further training and development can I do?
As a new security officer or guard, you will receive on-the-job training and supervision from your employer. Extra training may be available to help you gain skills in areas such as dog handling and first aid.
You may need to hold a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence. This currently depends on whether you are an employee or a contractor.
Employee, working in-house
As a security officer carrying out duties for your employer, on premises managed and operated by your employer (not contracted out to a customer), you do not need to be licensed by the SIA. Licensing in this area is under review.
Contractor, working for a third-party
If you are a security officer employed by an agency (or contractor) to work for a customer, you need an SIA front-line licence. To qualify for this you need:
- to be at least aged 18
- to satisfy identity and criminal record checks
- to have completed relevant SIA approved training.
SIA training takes around four days, and can be completed before or after you start work. If you already have a security qualification you may be exempt from part of the course. Check the SIA website for details.
Other SIA licences
If you use CCTV equipment or guard valuables in transit, you may need a relevant SIA licence such as the Cash and Valuables in Transit (CVIT) licence. See the SIA website for details.
Additional training
You could also work towards qualifications such as:
- NVQ Level 2 in Providing Security Services
- City & Guilds, NOCN or ASET awarded Certificate for Security Guards or Security Practitioners.
Skills for Security offer a range of courses relevant to the security industry. They also run a security supervisor training programme, which could help you move into security management.
You could also try the International Professional Security Association, that run security induction, supervisory management and specialist professional development courses.
Where can I go for more information?
Security HouseBarbourne Road
Worcester
WR1 1RS
Tel: 0845 075 0111
11, The Pavement
Popes Lane
Ealing
London
W5 4NG
Tel: 020 8832 7417
Liverpool
L69 1AX
Tel: 0844 892 1025
Barbourne Road
Worcester
WR1 1RS
Tel: 01905 21464
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser at Careers Advice, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries can be between £12,000 to £15,000 a year.
- Experienced officers can earn around £21,000.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You could work up to 48 hours a week including evenings and weekends. Shift work is very common.
Some jobs involve driving and for cash-in-transit work you will spend much of your time in a security van. You may work on your own or in a small team.
You would usually wear a uniform and, for cash-in-transit work, protective clothing.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- a mature and responsible attitude to work
- honesty and integrity
- a polite and helpful manner
- reasonable levels of physical fitness
- the ability to write short reports and follow written instructions
- confidence to challenge people when necessary
- the ability to use your initiative and make quick decisions to deal with unexpected situations
- the ability to work with technical equipment, such as CCTV.
What opportunities are there?
Job opportunities are increasing throughout the country. Employers range from large organisations to small, local, private security firms. It is important to look for a reputable company, that will give you training, reasonable pay and conditions. Many security companies are registered with the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) and the International Professional Security Association (IPSA).
With experience, you could progress to senior or chief security officer, then supervisor. With additional qualifications you could go into security management or training, or go on to set up your own security company.
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