National Application Center :: career details :: Security Guards
Plan, explore, and apply to college using these great tools.
Career Details :: Security Guards
Description
Guard, patrol, or monitor premises to prevent theft, violence, or infractions of rules.
Experience
No previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, a person can become a general office clerk even if he/she has never worked in an office before.
Education
These occupations may require a high school diploma or GED certificate. Some may require a formal training course to obtain a license.
Training
Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few days to a few months of training. Usually, an experienced worker could show you how to do the job.
Tasks
- Patrols industrial and commercial premises to prevent and detect signs of intrusion and ensure security of doors, windows, and gates.
- Warns persons of rule infractions or violations and apprehends or evicts violators from premises, using force when necessary.
- Calls police or fire departments in cases of emergency, such as fire or presence of unauthorized persons.
- Operates detecting devices to screen individuals and prevent passage of prohibited articles into restricted areas.
- Answers telephone calls to take messages, answer questions, and provide information during non-business hours or when switchboard is closed.
- Escorts or drives motor vehicle to transport individuals to specified locations and to provide personal protection.
- Monitors and adjusts controls that regulate building systems, such as air conditioning, furnace, or boiler.
- Writes reports of daily activities and irregularities, such as equipment or property damage, theft, presence of unauthorized persons, or unusual occurrences.
- Drives and guards armored vehicle to transport money and valuables to prevent theft and ensure safe delivery.
- Circulates among visitors, patrons, and employees to preserve order and protect property.
- Answers alarms and investigates disturbances.
- Monitors and authorizes entrance and departure of employees, visitors, and other persons to guard against theft and maintain security of premises.
- Inspects and adjusts security systems, equipment, and machinery to ensure operational use and to detect evidence of tampering.
Related Careers
- Bailiffs
- Bus Drivers, School
- Correctional Officers and Jailers
- Criminal Investigators and Special Agents
- Fire Inspectors
- Police Detectives
- Private Detectives and Investigators
- Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs
- Truck Drivers, Light or Delivery Services
Important Abilities
General Work Activities
- Monitor Processes, Material, Surroundings
- Performing General Physical Activities
- Getting Information Needed to Do the Job
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
- Documenting/Recording Information
Important Skills
Frequent Work Context
- Responsible for Others' Health & Safety
- Consequence of Error
- Importance of Being Aware of New Events
- Job-Required Social Interaction
- Importance of Being Sure All Is Done
