Security guard jobs are great ways to earn a living because they can be fun and exciting while providing a stable living wage. Security guard positions offer entry-level employment opportunities with potential advancement, varied work settings, and diverse duties. 

There are over 800,000 security guards in the United States, and more than 100,000 more security guard jobs are available. Wages for guards have increased by 20% over the last five years, and the industry is expected to grow by 3% over the next few years. 

What is the Main Role of a Security Guard?

The main job of a security guard is to enhance the security of a specific location, business, or person. While each security detail is specific to its situation, there are some typical duties that most security guards share. These include: 

• Patrol
• Monitor Surveillance Equipment
• Secure Premises
• Respond to Alarms
• Report Incidents

Security guards work in various locations, including indoor and outdoor settings. Some work only daytime hours, while others provide protection overnight. There are even special guards who work in more high-risk areas. Sometimes, these security guard jobs are best handled by armed guards. 

What Makes a Good Security Guard?

A good security guard acts professionally at all times and respects the seriousness of the job they are tasked with. They must also have excellent communication and conflict-resolution skills, which allows them to de-escalate any situation they encounter. 

Physical fitness is also important in security guard jobs. Strength, endurance, and agility help a guard handle different obstacles they could be presented with. 

In addition to these skills, there are the intangibles that help a security guard to succeed. The very best security guards are vigilant and detail-oriented.  

While no specific nationwide certifications are required for security guard jobs, security guard training courses are available that help provide training and a better understanding of job duties. Many of these courses come with certifications.

Types of Security Guard Jobs

There are many types of security guard jobs. They run the gamut from providing security to a VIP such as a CEO to concert security to providing security for a business such as a store, hospital, or hotel. 

Some of the more common types of security guard jobs include:

• Residential Security: Provides security at a private home, apartment complex, or Home Owners Association
• Corporate Security: Provides security for a specific corporation, its property, assets, and employees. 
• Retail Security: Secures stores by preventing shrinkage and providing security for employees and customers.
• Event Security: Guards secure a specific event, from parking to entry points to crowd and seating concerts. 
• Armed & Unarmed: Some security guard jobs do not require a guard to be armed, while other jobs necessitate an armed guard. 

How Much Do Security Guards Make Per Hour in the US?

The average hourly wage for security guard jobs in the United States is just above $15. However, security guard jobs vary widely based on location, specific duties, and the security company in question. 

The pay for security guards also varies based on a guard’s certifications, education, and experience. 

Where to Hire the Best Security Guards

If you are looking for security guard services to help protect your residential or business assets, consider Elite Investigations. Elite Investigations provides well-trained, uniformed security guards for every situation. 

Don’t wait until a problem arises. Call Elite Investigations today at (866) 779-5017 or click here to request your free quote now.