Security officer
Security officers make sure that buildings, valuables and people are safe and secure.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
Your duties will depend on where you work.
As a security officer you could:
- patrol premises and secure doors, windows and other entrances
- monitor CCTV cameras and respond to alarms
- check staff and visitors in and out of buildings
- guard cash or other valuables in a security vehicle
- operate scanning equipment and devices, for example at airports
- guard important facilities, like power stations and hospitals
Working environment
Your working environment may be physically demanding and outdoors in all weathers.
You may need to wear a uniform.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a supervisor or chief security officer.
You could take further qualifications, through an advanced Security First Line Manager apprenticeship to go into security management.
With management experience you could become an area security manager, with responsibility for offices, shops or other facilities across a region.
You could specialise as a consultant, advising businesses on certain types of security, for example close protection, anti-terror measures or conflict management.
You could also set up your own security recruitment agency, or work for companies that develop and sell security systems, like biometrics or surveillance equipment.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- customer service skills for challenging people politely but firmly
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- knowledge of public safety and security
- the ability to work well with others
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- concentration skills to stay alert and aware of your surroundings
- the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restrictions and Requirements
You'll need to:
- pass enhanced background checks
- be over 18 years of age
When you apply for an SIA licence, checks on your personal and work history will be made, including your criminal record.
The SIA has more advice on applying for a licence and criminal convictions.
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- an approved training course
You can apply for a Professional Security Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship to get into this role.
You could also do a Security First Line Manager Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, if you have experience in security work.
These take between 1 and 2 years to complete.
Entry requirements
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
More Information
To work legally in many jobs as a security guard you need a front line Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence.
Before you apply for this licence you need to train for an approved 'licence-linked' qualification. This is so that employers can be sure you have the skills and knowledge you need to do the job safely.
The qualification you need will depend on the type of security work you want to do, for example:
- guarding cash and valuables in transit
- CCTV operating
- front line security
You can search for the correct type of training with an approved training provider in your area, through the SIA website.
Registration
- you'll need a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence for agency and contractor jobs
Career tips
Experience of working in the police or armed forces could help you get into this job.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the International Professional Security Association for training and development opportunities.
Related videos
Suggested videos
Coffee With is in early release mode with a limited number of videos. New videos are being added every week, so please check back for updates.
External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.