A private security guard patrols and guards buildings and other areas to prevent or stop incidents, such as theft or violence. Security guards also respond to alarms and may arrest people who pose a threat to security. Many large organizations hire security guards and security managers who manage the guards and the overall security system. A private security guard protects the employer, protecting the employer from violations of the law and disturbances that may pose a loss to the client. Most security guards work in the private sector. Many companies employ security guards, such as banks, museums, hospitals, office buildings, nightclubs, and stores. Specialties of security guards include retail loss prevention, armored car guards (who protect money and valuables being transported from one location to another), game wardens, and nightclub bouncers. Some security guards become police or law enforcement officers and study while working full time to earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.
There are many, many types of security services, but the most common ones are:
Uniformed agents
Many security companies offer uniformed officers that you can hire to deter burglary, theft, and vandalism. In fact, these uniformed security agents prevent any criminal activity to which your property is susceptible. In some cases, companies may also hire uniformed and armed security guards to provide a safer environment for customers and staff. Examples of this case would be banks, jewelry stores, and occasions where people or products require additional security.
Concierge service/lobby security
Your company’s lobby is the first place that makes an impression on your guests and customers. For this reason, your lobby may require a lobby security officer to ensure the safety of your guests. Trained security officers respond quickly to any sign of a security breach. PSI offers concierge and lobby security services to both small and large businesses in and around Atlanta. Our officers are professional and fully trained to respond to any situation that may require quick action.
Bicycle Security Patrol
Security options such as bicycle security patrol keep a business or company’s surroundings safe. For example, banks and financial institutions may require these services for quick emergency response.
The job prospects for private security officers are diverse, which means the educational requirements are as well. The requirements to become a private security officer will depend on the type of personal security you wish to provide. It is recommended that a person interested in becoming a private security guard first obtain at least a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement or criminal justice. To increase the chances of securing employment in this field, it is recommended that a bachelor’s degree in one of these subjects be obtained.
When a degree in criminal justice or law enforcement is obtained, a person can expect to take courses in private security, corporate security, terrorism, public safety, loss prevention, corrections, security management, and other classes of a similar nature.
Some security officer positions only require work experience in a similar field or a law enforcement training program. However, to increase the chances of getting a job, it is recommended to have a degree.
Most people who work as private security guards start in other areas of law enforcement and then move into these positions.