Occupation

Security Guards

Human Advantage 76%

Significant human skills needed

AI Automation Risk Low Risk
2.4 / 10

This occupation requires complex human judgment, social interaction, and creative problem-solving that are difficult to automate.

Guard, patrol, or monitor premises to prevent theft, violence, or infractions of rules. May operate x-ray and metal detector equipment.

Also Known As: Alarm Investigator, Armed Guard, Armed Security Guard, Armed Security Officer, Armored Car Driver, Armored Car Guard, Bag Checker, Baggage Inspector +68 more

Video

Core Tasks

  1. Lock doors and gates of entrances and exits to secure buildings.
  2. Patrol industrial or commercial premises to prevent and detect signs of intrusion and ensure security of doors, windows, and gates.
  3. Respond to medical emergencies by administering basic first aid or by obtaining assistance from paramedics.
  4. Answer alarms and investigate disturbances.
  5. Circulate among visitors, patrons, or employees to preserve order and protect property.
  6. Monitor and authorize entrance and departure of employees, visitors, and other persons to guard against theft and maintain security of premises.
  7. Write reports of daily activities and irregularities, such as equipment or property damage, theft, presence of unauthorized persons, or unusual occurrences.
  8. Warn persons of rule infractions or violations, and apprehend or evict violators from premises, using force when necessary.
  9. Answer telephone calls to take messages, answer questions, and provide information during non-business hours or when switchboard is closed.
  10. Call police or fire departments in cases of emergency, such as fire or presence of unauthorized persons.
  11. Operate detecting devices to screen individuals and prevent passage of prohibited articles into restricted areas.
  12. Inspect and adjust security systems, equipment, or machinery to ensure operational use and to detect evidence of tampering.
  13. Escort or drive motor vehicle to transport individuals to specified locations or to provide personal protection.

Supplemental Tasks (1)

  1. Monitor and adjust controls that regulate building systems, such as air conditioning, furnace, or boiler.

Education & Training

Job Zone 2 Job Zone Two: Some Preparation Needed
Education: These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Experience: Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
On-the-Job Training: Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

Education Level Distribution

Percentage of workers in this occupation with each education level.

High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED)
79%
Some College Courses
10%
Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree)
5%
Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in agriculture or natural resources, computer services, personal or culinary services, engineering technologies, healthcare, construction trades, mechanic and repair technologies, or precision production)
4%
Bachelor's Degree
2%

Technology & Tools

Hot Technologies

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft SharePoint
  • Microsoft Word

Software (11)

  • Corel WordPerfect Office Suite
  • FaceTime
  • IBM Lotus 1-2-3
  • McAfee
  • NortonLifeLock cybersecurity software
  • Wireshark

Tools & Equipment (23)

  • Desktop computers
  • Digital video cameras
  • First aid kits
  • Flashlights
  • Laptop computers
  • Laser facsimile machines
  • Metal handcuffs
  • Multi-line telephone systems
  • Multipurpose fire extinguishers
  • Nightsticks
  • Patrol cars
  • Patrol golf carts
  • Pepper spray
  • Personal computers
  • Photocopiers
  • Pistols
  • Plastic handcuffs
  • Revolvers
  • Security alarm systems
  • Security surveillance systems
  • Switchboards
  • Two way radios
  • Vehicle weight scales

Where This Career Leads

Career progression organized by specialty track and experience level.

Public Safety Financial Services

Zone 2
Security Guards You are here
Zone 3
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers 92% match
Zone 4
Compliance Officers 76% match

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Real Talk

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