private security jobs usa
If you love the thought of working in the kitchen, but don’t want to be stuck in a fast-paced restaurant all day, you might be interested in becoming a private chef. Working as a private chef means that you can spend your time making gourmet meals and delivering them to the customers who hired you, rather than dealing with customers yourself or preparing huge amounts of food at once. It also gives you more flexibility in where you work, since you can do it at home or out of your clients’ homes.
Overview of Private Security Jobs
As a rule, private security is not regulated by local or state governments. In California, for example, even a private investigator is legally required to have some sort of licensing from the state. But in general, anyone can own and operate a private-security company. Private-security officers must pass background checks and drug tests and complete training before they can start work; however, there are no licensing requirements. Their job duties vary widely based on what type of service they provide (retail loss prevention vs executive protection) but generally require them to protect people/property or monitor behaviors that could be harmful to people/property.
The Size and Scale of the Industry
There are approximately 1.4 million private security officers working in America today, according to data from Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). That number is expected to increase 17% by 2022. The BLS estimates that there will be 1.6 million private security officers working in America by 2022, which is an increase of 25%. Private security officers are needed at residential and commercial buildings as well as banks and other financial institutions, stadiums and arenas, parking lots, warehouses and construction sites. They can work for large corporations or small businesses or even start their own company to provide these services. It is important for prospective students to note that most states require private investigators/security guards to have a firearms permit as well as a background check done before becoming employed.
There are three primary types of private security officers in America: those who specialize in protecting physical assets, those who specialize in personal protection, and those who specialize in investigating criminal activity. Physical asset protection officers usually work for large corporations or institutions that want to protect their business or property. These officers are often hired for night shifts and are responsible for patrolling specific areas looking for suspicious activities that could lead to theft, fire or other threats to physical safety. While night patrol is one area where these officers are used often, some of them may be assigned during daylight hours as well. They may also be assigned to work at entry points (like gates) and issue badges/badge readers before allowing people onto company grounds.
What Will I Earn as a Private Security Officer?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimated that, as of May 2016, private detectives and investigators earned an average annual salary of $55,490. The lowest-paid 10 percent made less than $31,980, while those in the top 10 percent brought home more than $93,770. The middle 50 percent earned between $35,960 and $63,880. Growth is expected to be relatively slow from 2014 to 2024. During that time period, BLS predicts private detective and investigator employment will grow at an average rate of 4 percent—slower than all other occupations nationwide.
Sample Job Listings
Private Security - Courtyard Miami Airport, FL : This position requires a high school diploma or equivalent and valid state driver's license. Must be at least 21 years of age, must have a minimum of three years experience as a security officer, active police... Private School Assistant Director (School-Age) Chicago, IL : We are seeking a candidate who is passionate about education and assisting youth to reach their full potential. He/she will facilitate learning for children through innovative strategies and mentoring.... Private Chef - USA March 2015 - August 2015: The job location is in a private home in California, Los Angeles area (Malibu). It could run from 3-6 months. The family can provide accommodation if necessary. They are English...
Becoming a private security guard is a great way to build on your experience, while earning good money. Whether you want to help people, stay active or simply have a lucrative career without committing to full-time employment, being a private security guard offers you...
Becoming a private school teacher opens up another avenue for using your education in an interesting and rewarding way. While it may not be as high profile as some other professions, teaching at one of many prestigious private schools can open doors for you that may otherwise be closed. It’s also...
Job Duties for a Private Security Officer
Private security officers are expected to be aware of their surroundings at all times and report any unusual activity. While on duty, they perform a range of tasks including conducting patrols and checking alarm systems. They are also responsible for handling minor situations and calls, such as making small repairs or locking doors. When performing these duties, private security officers must follow strict company policies. For example, they may be required to sign in a log before beginning their shift and record all details of any incidents they are involved in. If a private security officer is hired by an agency that provides training, it is likely that he or she will have received specific training for his or her position before being allowed to work independently. There may also be additional requirements depending on state regulations.
Working Conditions in Security
To be a private security guard, you must have a pleasant personality because your job is to prevent crime. You must maintain constant awareness of what’s going on around you and anticipate problems before they happen. Your work as a private security guard can include protecting people and property, ensuring safe parking areas and monitoring traffic flow at construction sites. If an emergency arises, you may need to use first aid or other lifesaving skills.
Security guards protect both private and public property, so you may work at an individual residence or for a large corporation. You might also work for government agencies or law enforcement organizations. Your duties vary depending on your employer, but in most cases you must be alert at all times, follow strict policies and procedures and enforce security measures to reduce theft or damage. You can be held responsible if a crime occurs on your watch, so you must stay vigilant at all times. In addition to job-related responsibilities, you may need to perform occasional maintenance tasks such as cleaning restrooms and washing windows. Some employers require that you use technology while on duty to monitor alarms, cameras or other tools used for surveillance.
