Question 1

How much do Security Guards make?

Accepted Answer

Security Guards earn a national median salary of $58,610 per year, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Entry-level Security Guards (10th percentile) earn around $37,793. Experienced professionals (90th percentile) can earn $93,932 or more. The highest-paying states for Security Guards include New Hampshire ($77K), Rhode Island ($67K), and Missouri ($65K).

Question 2

What does a Security Guard do?

Accepted Answer

Perform routine inspection, patrol and crime prevention services for private clients. Common day-to-day tasks include prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as criminal law, defensive policing, and investigation techniques, initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions, and evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers. Security Guards typically work in Office buildings and corporate campuses, Retail stores and shopping centers, Hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Question 3

How long does it take to become a Security Guard?

Accepted Answer

Most Security Guard training programs take 6mo-1.5yr to complete. Programs typically lead to a certificate or diploma and cover hands-on skills needed for entry-level positions. You can search and compare Security Guard programs at TradeSchoolGo to find one that fits your schedule and budget.

Question 4

Is Security Guard a good career?

Accepted Answer

The Security Guard field is projected to see 2.0% job growth, which is about average, with approximately 1,300 job openings annually. Businesses, schools, and public venues continue to invest in security to deter theft, violence, and unauthorized access. Growth in large facilities and events can increase the need for guards and supervisors to monitor people, property, and surveillance systems.

Question 5

What skills do I need to become a Security Guard?

Accepted Answer

Key skills for Security Guards include Situational awareness and threat recognition, Clear verbal communication and de-escalation, Report writing and documentation, Basic first aid and emergency response, and Customer service and professionalism. These skills are developed through formal training programs and on-the-job experience.

Question 6

What is the work environment like for a Security Guard?

Accepted Answer

Security Guards typically work in Office buildings and corporate campuses, Retail stores and shopping centers, Hospitals and healthcare facilities, Schools and universities, Hotels, casinos, and entertainment venues. Many roles use rotating shifts and may include nights, weekends, and holidays, especially for 24/7 sites. Work often involves long periods of standing, walking patrol routes, and occasional running or physical intervention. Some positions are more sedentary (surveillance/monitoring) but still require alertness and repetitive monitoring tasks.

Question 7

What are the pros and cons of being a Security Guard?

Accepted Answer

Advantages of a Security Guard career include many entry-level openings across industries, clear advancement path to supervisor or site manager, and variety of work settings and assignments. Challenges to consider: the Security Guard trade can involve shift work and overnight/weekend schedules are common, potential exposure to conflict, emergencies, or unsafe situations, and work can be repetitive (patrols, monitoring, report writing).

Question 8

How much does Security Guard school cost?

Accepted Answer

Security Guard training program costs vary depending on the school, location, and program length. Certificate programs are generally less expensive than associate degree programs. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants may be available to help cover costs. Browse and compare Security Guard programs with tuition information on TradeSchoolGo.

Question 9

Can I become a Security Guard without a college degree?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Security Guard careers typically require a certificate or diploma from a trade school or vocational program, not a four-year college degree. Most programs take 6mo-1.5yr to complete and focus on hands-on, practical training. Some Security Guards also enter the field through apprenticeship programs that combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Security Guard

What Security Guards Do

Common Tasks

Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary

What You'll Learn

Types of Security Guards

Work Environment

Locations

Schedule

Physical Demands

Salary & Job Outlook

Top Paying States

Why Demand May Grow

Skills You'll Need

Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Common Questions About the Security Guard Trade

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