Store Detective
What is the work like?
Store detectives are employed to minimise shoplifting. They use their observational skills to identify the signs of attempted theft. Detectives often work in plain clothes and as part of a team of security officers.
As a store detective, your duties could include:
- following shoppers who behave suspiciously
- carrying out searches of suspects
- calling the police and describing observations
- taking evidence from witnesses
- writing short reports
- occasionally giving evidence in court.
You would have the power to detain anyone attempting to leave the premises with stolen goods. You may also be involved in preventing the use of stolen credit cards.
You would use various kinds of technology in your work, such as two-way radios, loop alarms, mirrors, electronic tags on goods, and closed circuit television (CCTV).
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You do not usually need formal academic qualifications to start work as a store detective, however, a good general standard of education would be helpful. For some jobs you would need to be licensed by the Security Industry Authority (SIA); see the training and development section for details.
Many people move into store detective work as a second career. Previous experience in retail or working with the police, armed forces or security companies would be particularly useful.
Most 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.
You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
What further training and development can I do?
You will usually receive on-the-job training, working alongside experienced staff. You may also need to work towards (or hold) a licence, however, this depends on whether you are an employee or a contractor.
Employee, working in-house
If you work directly for your employer, carrying out duties on premises managed and operated by them (not contracted out to a customer), you do not need a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence. However, this is under review.
Contractor, working for a third-party
If you are employed by an agency (or contractor) to work as a store detective for a customer, you need an SIA front-line licence. To qualify for this you need:
- to be aged 18 or over
- to pass an identity check and a criminal record check
- to have completed relevant SIA approved training.
Approved SIA training takes around four days, and can be completed before you begin work or when you start in your first job (see the SIA website for details of approved training providers). If you already have a security qualification you may be exempt from part of the course.
CCTV operation
You are likely to need an additional SIA licence if your work includes using CCTV equipment (check the SIA website for details).
Additional training
Whichever type of store detective you are (in-house or contract), you could work towards qualifications such as:
- ASET Level 1 Introduction to Working in the Security Industry
- NVQ Level 2 in Providing Security Services
- BTEC Level 2 Award in Security Operations
- Professional Retail Security Officer course run by the International Professional Security Association.
Where can I go for more information?
Northumberland House Business Centre11, The Pavement
Popes Lane
Ealing
London
W5 4NG
Tel: 020 8832 7417
Barbourne Road
Worcester
WR1 1RS
Tel: 01905 21464
Liverpool
L69 1AX
Tel: 0844 892 1025
Barbourne Road
Worcester
WR1 1RS
Tel: 0845 075 0111
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries for store detectives can be around £13,000 a year.
- With experience this can rise to around £20,000 to £25,000 a year.
Many store detectives earn more money by doing overtime.
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 sometimes necessary, depending on the opening hours of the store. Temporary and seasonal work is frequently available.
You will spend much of your day standing and walking around the store. Because of the nature of your work, you may experience some hostility from members of the public.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- a mature and responsible attitude to work
- honesty and integrity
- good observational skills
- strong spoken and written communicating skills
- the ability to handle sensitive situations
- a polite and helpful attitude
- good levels of physical fitness
- confidence to challenge people when necessary
- the ability to use modern surveillance systems, such as CCTV and electronic tags
- the ability to make quick decisions.
What opportunities are there?
You could find work within large stores throughout the country. Jobs are advertised in the local press and Jobcentre Plus.
You will also find opportunities with companies who provide security services to retailers. It is important to look for a reputable company who will provide training and reasonable pay and conditions. The British Security Industry Association (BSIA) has a list of member security companies who have been subject to strict requirements.
With experience you could progress to a senior post, such as supervisor and security manager. You could become self-employed and work on contracts for stores.
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