National
| Median wages (2008) |
$11.28 hourly, $23,460 annual |
| Employment (2006) |
1,040,000 employees |
| Projected growth (2006-2016) |
Faster than average (14% to 20%)
|
| Projected need (2006-2016) |
387,000 additional employees |
33-9032.00 - Security Guards
Guard, patrol, or monitor premises to prevent theft, violence, or infractions of rules.
Sample of reported job titles:
Security Officer, Safety and Security Officer, Security Agent, Security Guard, Campus Security Officer, Loss Prevention Officer, Customer Service Security Officer, Hotel Security Officer, Store Detective
Tasks
- Monitor and authorize entrance and departure of employees, visitors, and other persons to guard against theft and maintain security of premises.
- Write reports of daily activities and irregularities such as equipment or property damage, theft, presence of unauthorized persons, or unusual occurrences.
- Call police or fire departments in cases of emergency, such as fire or presence of unauthorized persons.
- Answer alarms and investigate disturbances.
- Circulate among visitors, patrons, or employees to preserve order and protect property.
- Patrol industrial or commercial premises to prevent and detect signs of intrusion and ensure security of doors, windows, and gates.
- Escort or drive motor vehicle to transport individuals to specified locations or to provide personal protection.
- Operate detecting devices to screen individuals and prevent passage of prohibited articles into restricted areas.
- Answer telephone calls to take messages, answer questions, and provide information during non-business hours or when switchboard is closed.
- Warn persons of rule infractions or violations, and apprehend or evict violators from premises, using force when necessary.
back to top
Tools & Technology
Tools used in this occupation:
| Desktop computers |
| Emergency medical services first aid kits — First aid kits |
| Handcuffs — Metal handcuffs; Plastic handcuffs |
| Handguns — Pistols; Revolvers |
| Photocopiers |
| Premise branch exchange PBX systems — Switchboards |
| Two way radios |
Technology used in this occupation:
| Data base user interface and query software — Data entry software |
| Spreadsheet software — IBM Lotus 1-2-3; Microsoft Excel |
| Word processing software — Corel WordPerfect software; Microsoft Word |
