Protect and defend.
Are you interested in starting a dynamic career in the realm of security? If so, then a profession as a security guard may be your ideal choice. As our world becomes ever more dangerous, and the risk of criminal or terrorist activity bleeds into almost every industry, the need for highly trained and focused security guards is greater than ever before. Therefore, if you're interested in a career that not only compensates above the national average, but guarantees long-lasting job security, then you should explore the following five areas of security employment. Of course, the need for security guards delves far deeper than these industries, yet according to the latest employment data gathered from the U.S. Department of Labor and Your Police Career, these industries are geared toward expansive growth in both the number of positions available and in average annual salary.
Personal Security Industry The personal security industry is expected to experience tremendous growth over the next several years. As individuals understand the value of private security for their home, business or for themselves, the need for well-trained security guards is projected to also increase. As a personal security guard, you're responsible for overseeing the security of an individual client and their home. Most often, these clients are high-profile, such as CEOs, celebrities or government officials. Because of the highly competitive nature of this industry, you should strive to enhance your training through advanced-level coursework and dynamic training options. Security Guard Training Institutions As the need for high-trained security guards increases, so does the need for proficient training institutions. Instead of working directly for clients, you may have an option to teach what you've learned by becoming a security guard instructor. Of course, this level of employment is typically reserved for those who have already worked in this industry and who have higher education. If you're interested in pursuing a career in this industry, you must not only obtain a variety of security guard training programs, but a degree in criminal justice is highly desirable. Small Business Security Guards Throughout the past several years, the rate of employment within small businesses has experienced massive growth. Although the average “mom and pop” institution may not need a security guard, there are many highly successful (and profitable) small businesses in need of competent and effective security guards. In many cases, you can work as a contractor (or on a freelance basis) and provide your services directly with clients without having to go through a major security company. This can yield not only higher pay, but the satisfaction of security small businesses is among the greatest benefits of securing employment in this dynamic field. Are you interested in taking your career to the next level? Do you wish to work in the security industry, but in a fashion that's unique and rewarding? If so, then you may wish to consider a job within the government sector. Government security guard jobs are available throughout the country, and with many different positions, finding your ideal career within the branches of government may be easier than you think.
An Exploration Into Government Security Jobs Perhaps one of the most important elements to consider when venturing into this dynamic and diverse realm of security guard careers is the topic of security clearance. Unlike many other security guard jobs, when you work for the government in any fashion, you must gain specific security clearances in order to operate within a specific realm of the government (see yourpolicecareer.com). In the most fundamental sense, there are three primary levels of government security clearance, which include: Top Secret, Secret and Confidential. Although many government security guard positions require the passing of specific tests and background checks to gain necessary security clearance levels, not every position requires such a process. General Requirements Because government security guard positions are so varied, each position may feature its own set of unique requirements. For example, securing the entrance of a federal building may not require a high level of security clearance while working within a highly protected building will likely require a Confidential Clearance level as you may encounter government secrets or bear witness to confidential conversations. Generally, if you wish to work as a government security guard you must be a U.S. Citizen and be eligible to work for the government, such as not being convicted of a felony. If you're seeking a more advanced-level security guard position, you should expect to pass a series of vigorous physical and knowledge-based examinations given by the hiring organization. Many times, you must begin work in an entry-level government security position and then be promoted to higher-ranking positions. If you're interested in a specific job, the Federal Bureau of Human Resources will inform of specific clearance levels and requirements for each level. Most Common Government Security Guard Positions While you may have visions of working in the Pentagon or alongside State officials, these positions are rare and many times are filled with persons who have previous experience working for the government. This being noted, there are several job openings regularly seeking entry-level applicants. The following positions are excellent in pay and provide room for growth within the specific organization or within the federal government. Transportation Security Agency (TSA) Department of Homeland Security (DHS) National Security Agency (NSA) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) |