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Job
Outlook
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Job Outlook for Security Guards
TRENDS
More and more businesses are buying high-tech electronic surveillance and
security equipment. As more of these systems are installed, Security Guards
are often assigned to stations where they sit in front of a control panel
and watch several closed-circuit television screens and monitor key areas
in the work place. They also monitor perimeter security, heating, cooling
and lighting systems, communications, and other systems.
Another development is the growing number of patrol men and women "for hire"
in residential areas. The cost of a patrol service is shared by the
participating homeowners. Armed guards in patrol cars promise 24-hour
service and fast response.
THE JOB
SECURITY GUARDS, also called Security Officers, protect industrial or
commercial property against fire, theft, vandalism, and illegal entry. They
protect and control entry to industrial, commercial, and, sometimes,
residential property. The duties depend on the employer's needs. Duties
may include operating and monitoring alarm and closed-circuit television
systems, receiving visitors and giving information. They may also take
action in emergency situations such as illness, safety hazards, or other
unusual situations.
The main responsibilities of the guard are to observe and report. These
duties may involve observing from a distance while on a walking patrol,
while driving a patrol car, or by closed-circuit television. When they make
their rounds, Guards may check windows, doors, and keep aware of
unauthorized individuals in an area. Other tasks may include making sure
that electrical and plumbing systems, alarms, and sprinkler systems are on
or working properly. It's common for Guards to keep in radio contact with
other Guards patrolling on foot or in cars. Guards may have to search the
area thoroughly when anything unusual is noticed. A patrol area could be a
large refinery or a small office building lobby. Anything unusual or any
potential problem is noted and reported to the proper authority: police,
fire department, building office, etc. Written reports are usually filed
after action has been taken to correct the situation. Some Guards now use
computers to store security information, including suspicious happenings and
names of visitors.
Guards also control crowds at large gatherings, watch for shoplifters, and
guard the pick-up and delivery of valuables. Some guards carry weapons such
as guns or nightsticks, but they aren't encouraged to use them. For some
employers, guards drive and protect armored trucks carrying money or other
valuables. Most of the work, though, is in long-term jobs at specific
locations. Regular reports are made of routine activities, including a
written summary at the end of each shift.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Although the work can be different depending on the assignment, most guard
work is routine, tiring, and a bit dangerous. Some guards work alone and at
night in far off locations, while others work with other officers during the
day.
Security Guards may be stationed at factory gates, building lobbies,
shopping centers, television stations, apartment/condominium complexes,
construction sites, hospitals, museums, or parking lots.
EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK
The California Projections of Employment, published by the Labor Market
Information Division of the Employment Development Department, estimates
that the number of Security Guards in California will reach 142,070 by 2005,
an increase in new jobs of 35,640 over the number there was in 1993.
There will also be an estimated 27,560 job openings due to people retiring
or leaving the occupation. Added to the 35,640 new jobs expected, this
makes for an estimated total of 63,200 job opportunities through 2005.
(These figures do not include self-employment nor openings due to turnover.)
Security Guards is considered one of the fastest growing occupations in
California. While job opportunities for qualified workers will be mostly in
city areas, guards will also be needed at amusement, recreation, and special
event attractions especially during holiday and vacation seasons.
Many employers report that there are a lot of job seekers who are barely
qualified and a shortage of persons who meet the job requirements. Also,
there is a high turnover rate due in part to low pay and odd hours. Because
of this, job opportunities should be best for qualified persons available
for night shift work.
WAGES, HOURS, AND FRINGE BENEFITS
Wage rates for guards vary with different employers. Typical starting wages
for guards with little or no experience are minimum wage to $12.00 an hour.
Wages for experienced guards are $7.00 to $19.50. Armed guards generally
earn more than unarmed guards.
Since guards are needed around the clock, they may be assigned to any eight-
hour shift or to rotating shifts. At least two-thirds of the work is at
night. Guards may also work any day of the year. Employers sometimes pay
higher rates for night shifts and sometimes for holidays. Most contract
guards (those employed by an outside service agency) and some in-house
guards work on-call or part time for at least their first 90 days. Guards
who do well on these assignments can move into full-time, permanent
positions when they are available.
Employers usually furnish required equipment such as two-way radios, time
clocks and weapons (if armed guards are needed). Many employers provide
uniforms and uniform cleaning allowances.
REQUIREMENTS AND TRAINING
Most employers prefer to hire workers with a high school education or its
equivalent, because most guards must be able to read, write and follow
written and spoken instructions. Although most employers will accept
trainees, many prefer candidates who have had previous military police or
security guard experience or who have taken classes in law enforcement at a
community college or have been involved with some form of public contact
work. Applicants are expected to have good character references, good
health, especially in hearing and eyesight, and good personal habits such
as neatness and dependability. They should be mentally alert, emotionally
stable, and physically fit to deal with emergencies. Contract services
generally require guards to have their own phone and car.
Uniformed contract guards and armed in-house guards must be registered
with the Department of Consumer Affairs and have a guard registration card.
Preliminary registration requirements include passing a fingerprint and
background check and a self-study course in the powers of arrest, with an
open-book test on the exercise of the power of arrest given by the
employer. Full registration requires completion of a formal, day-long,
powers of arrest course in an approved school.
Applicants applying for a gun permit must also complete a 14-hour written
and range exam on the carrying and use of firearms. The training must be
completed at a Bureau of Collection and Investigative Services approved
training facility. Applicants with felony convictions may apply if
convicted more than seven years ago.
JOB ADVANCEMENT
With more experience and/or education, you may promote to Security
Supervisor or Owner/Operator of a Security Service.
JOB SEARCH
Information about openings can be found in newspaper classified ads, through
the California Employment Development Department, or by applying directly to
employers. Companies hiring their own guards sometimes select from among
those already working for them on a contract basis. Federal, State, and
local government jobs are filled through competitive exams; information
about these job openings can be had from civil service offices.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Department of Consumer Affairs
Security and Investigative Services
400 R St., Suite 2001
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 445-7833
American Federation of Guards, Local #1
4311 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 302
Los Angeles, CA 90010
(213) 933-9145
RELATED OCCUPATIONAL GUIDES
Law Enforcement Occupations No. 457
OCCUPATIONAL CODE REFERENCES
DOT (Dictionary of Occupational Titles, 4th ed., Rev. 1)
Guard, Security 372.667-034
OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) System
Guards and Watch Guards 630470
Source: State of California, Employment Development Department,
Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
(916) 262-2162.
Attribution: State of California, Employment Development Department.
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