Security Officer
Security officers protect people and property by monitoring buildings, controlling access, patrolling and responding to incidents.
What does a security officer do?
Security officers watch over offices, hospitals, stores, campuses, events and residential buildings. They check visitors in, monitor cameras, patrol, write reports and call for help when needed. Many posts are stationary, such as a front desk or gate, while others involve walking patrols. Part-time and overnight shifts are common, which suits some retirees.
Typical responsibilities
- Control access to a building or site
- Monitor security cameras and alarms
- Patrol on foot or in a vehicle
- Write reports on incidents and daily activity
- Respond to emergencies and contact police or emergency services
- Help visitors and answer questions
Skills and qualifications
Useful skills
- Alertness and observation
- Calm judgment
- Clear report writing
- Courtesy with the public
- Reliability and punctuality
Common qualifications
- Most states require security guards to be licensed or registered; requirements vary by state
- State requirements often include training hours, fingerprinting and a background check
- Armed positions require additional training and licensing
- A high school diploma or equivalent is commonly expected
Working conditions
- Where the work happens
- Office lobbies, hospitals, schools, stores, warehouses, events and gated communities. Shifts cover nights, weekends and holidays.
- Physical demands
- Varies by post: some positions are mostly seated at a desk or gate, while patrol posts involve long periods of standing and walking.
- Remote work
- Rare. Most of this work is done in person.
- Part-time work
- Common. Many listings offer it. Part-time security jobs
- Pay
- Pay varies by employer and location, and we don't estimate it. Current listings that state pay show it on each job. For national figures, see the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (opens in a new tab).
How to get started
- Look up your state's security guard licensing requirements; requirements vary by state.
- Complete any required training and fingerprinting, and apply for the license or registration.
- Decide what kind of post suits you physically: desk or gate posts versus patrol posts.
- Apply to security companies and directly to hospitals, schools and property managers.
- Ask about shift lengths, overnight work and how schedules are set.
Experience that transfers
- Military service: Discipline, procedures and situational awareness are directly relevant.
- Law enforcement or corrections: Observation, de-escalation and report writing carry over.
- Retail or loss prevention: Experience watching for theft and dealing with the public helps.
- Building maintenance or facilities: Knowing how buildings and alarm systems work is useful on site.
Frequently asked questions
Can I work security part-time after retiring?
Yes. Security companies, hospitals, events and residential buildings often hire for part-time, weekend and overnight shifts. You will usually still need your state's license or registration. Ask about the specific post, since some involve sitting at a desk and others involve walking patrols.
Do I need a license to be a security guard?
In most states, yes. Requirements vary by state and often include a set number of training hours, fingerprinting and a background check. Armed positions require extra training and a separate license. Your state licensing agency lists the exact steps.
Are there security jobs that are not physically demanding?
Some are. Front desk, lobby, gate and camera-monitoring posts are often mostly seated. Patrol posts involve more walking and standing. Ask about the post before accepting, and read the physical requirements in the listing.