Learn about the essential requirements, obligations, responsibilities, and skills that are helpful in a security guard’s job description.
As crime becomes more frequent, especially in urban areas, security guards hold an important place in many settings like offices, hospitals, and government buildings. They are responsible for maintaining a safe and secure environment. You might also see them referred to as security officers.
Are you looking to hire a security guard? We recommend ZipRecruiter for hiring. ZipRecruiter allows you to post your first job for free. For additional options, check out our guide to the best job posting sites.
Security Guard Job Description Template
We are seeking a security guard to help increase the safety of our premises, employees, and visitors. If you are passionate about protecting others, you may be a good fit for our team. We’re looking for someone with exceptional communication and problem-solving skills and, preferably, experience in security. As a security guard with our company, you’ll monitor the property on foot and via surveillance camera, record visitors, and quickly respond to inappropriate behavior or emergencies.
Security Guard Responsibilities
- Monitor surveillance cameras and other security equipment to ensure the safety of everyone on the property
- Conduct regular patrols of the buildings and surrounding areas to identify any hazards or security breaches
- Maintain entry and exit points by checking and monitoring outgoing and incoming visitors
- Work with other security personnel and law enforcement upon incident or emergency
- Respond quickly and appropriately to emergencies
- Assist visitors when needed for a variety of tasks and provide excellent community service
Security Guard Requirements
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent training or education
- Security training
- CPR and First Aid certification
- Ability to stand, walk, or perform physical activity for extended periods and lift 50+ pounds
- Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays (if needed)
Security Guard Duties And Responsibilities
Monitor surveillance cameras and other security equipment to ensure the safety of everyone on the property
A security guard’s most important responsibilities are utilizing surveillance cameras and other security equipment like CCTV cameras, motion detectors, and alarms to monitor property safety. It requires combining technical skills, attention to detail, and a quick response time. It’s also a responsibility that involves multitasking and familiarity with technology.
Conduct regular patrols of the buildings and surrounding areas to identify any hazards or security breaches
To identify potential hazards or security breaches, security guards should conduct regular patrols of buildings and the surrounding area of the property they’re employed at. These checks may include checking doors and windows for signs of tampering, inspecting equipment for damages, and observing the behavior of visitors and employees. Candidates should have the necessary physical strength to be active for long periods.
Respond quickly and appropriately to emergencies
In case of an emergency, a security guard must be able to respond quickly and efficiently. As soon as they know the situation, they must coordinate with local law enforcement and emergency responders to provide the safest evacuation strategy for people in the building or any other necessary safety measures. Essential skills such as thinking quickly and making effective decisions in a high-stress environment are helpful.
Maintain entry and exit points by checking and monitoring outgoing and incoming visitors
In addition to monitoring the entire premises, security guards are sometimes responsible for maintaining entry and exit points. They can check visitors in and out, issue visitor badges, and converse with visitors to determine their reasoning for entering the building and who they will see. Strong conversation and interpersonal skills are essential in maintaining a friendly, welcoming, and safe environment.
Assist visitors when needed for a variety of tasks and provide excellent community service
Security guards assist visitors in various capacities, such as providing directions, assisting with lost and found items, and responding to medical emergencies. They should have a strong knowledge of the organization’s policies and procedures for these incidents and their code of conduct.
If you want to work as a security guard, a good first step is updating your resume. Check out our guide to creating a security guard resume to learn more.
Security Guard Salary And Job Outlook
Median National Salary: $29,326
Education Required: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent training
Number of Jobs: 1,087,200 in 2021
Job Growth 2020 – 2030: 3%
The Bottom Line
Security guards help protect patrons, employees, and other visitors. They’re indispensable in a climate with increasing violence and unpredictability. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in security, check our list of the best free job posting sites to see where employers are looking for candidates. If you want to add a security guard to your team, post your security guard job description on ZipRecruiter today!
