Security Guard Job Description

A security guard is responsible for protecting people and property from theft, vandalism, and other illegal activities. They are responsible for monitoring surveillance cameras, patrolling areas, responding quickly to emergencies, and ensuring that all safety regulations are followed.

• 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.
• Circulate among visitors, patrons, and employees to preserve order and protect property.
• Answer alarms and investigate disturbances.
• Monitor and adjust security systems or equipment.
• Warn persons of rule infractions or violations, and apprehend or evict violators from premises, using force when necessary.
• Inspect and adjust security systems, equipment, or machinery to ensure operational use and to detect evidence of tampering.
• Investigate and prepare reports on accidents, incidents, and suspicious activities.
• Provide assistance to customers, employees, and visitors in a courteous and professional manner.
• Respond to emergency situations, such as medical emergencies, fires, bomb threats, or intruder alerts.

• Alertness: Security guards must be alert and attentive at all times to potential threats or suspicious activity.
• Physical Fitness: Security guards must be physically fit in order to respond quickly and effectively to any situation.
• Honesty and Integrity: Security guards must be honest and trustworthy to ensure the safety of those they are protecting.
• Communication Skills: Security guards must be able to communicate effectively with staff, customers, and other security personnel.
• Patience: Security guards must be patient and calm in order to handle difficult situations.
• Problem Solving Skills: Security guards must be able to think quickly and come up with solutions to any security issues that may arise.
• Attention to Detail: Security guards must be detail-oriented in order to identify potential threats or suspicious activity.
• Conflict Resolution Skills: Security guards must be able to de-escalate situations and resolve conflicts in a professional manner.

On a day-to-day basis, a security guard plays an important role in protecting and safeguarding a property or area. They patrol the premises, monitoring areas for safety and security, watching for potential security threats and addressing any suspicious activity. Security guards also help to diffuse situations, provide customer service in public areas, and maintain access control. They must also enforce building policies and regulations, monitor alarms and emergency systems, operate CCTV surveillance, and investigate breaches of security. Additionally, they record daily activity logs, update visitor or staff lists, and remain alert for and respond to any calls for assistance.

Security guards play an important role in the safety and security of individuals, facilities, and businesses. When hiring a security guard, particularly one without experience, it is important to consider their prior work history and the skills they can bring to the role. Prior experience in similar roles or industries can be beneficial for becoming a security guard. Similar roles include jobs in law enforcement, customer service, military service, and private security firms.

The following are 10 job titles that are compatible with becoming a security guard:

• Law Enforcement Officer
• Customer Service Representative
• Security Officer
• Military Service Member
• Loss Prevention Officer
• Surveillance Officer
• Correctional Officer
• Private Security Guard
• Security Analyst
• Security Systems Technician