The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that security guards and gaming surveillance officers earned a median pay of $34,750 per year in 2023. The field employed over 1.2 million people, making it one of the largest occupational groups in protective services. BLS projects 3% growth through 2032, with higher demand in healthcare facilities, corporate campuses, and event venues. For those seeking stable, entry-accessible work with room to advance, security careers offer a solid foundation.
The security industry is broader than many realize. Common career paths include:
Security guard licensing varies by state, but most states require at minimum:
States like California, New York, and Texas have particularly structured requirements. California, for instance, requires a Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) Guard Card, which involves 40 hours of training within the first six months of employment. Check your state's requirements early, as processing times for licenses can take several weeks.
If you are exploring other careers that require professional licensing, our certification guide covers a range of options across industries.
While entry-level security positions start near $28,000, experienced guards and those in specialized roles earn considerably more. Here is how pay scales with experience and specialization:
Many security professionals advance by obtaining additional certifications. The ASIS International Certified Protection Professional (CPP) designation is considered the gold standard in the industry and can open doors to management and consulting roles.
Hiring managers in security emphasize reliability, situational awareness, and communication skills. A clean record is essential, and many employers require drug screening. Military or law enforcement experience is a significant advantage but not a requirement. If you are transitioning from military to civilian work, security is one of the most natural fits, as many duties overlap directly.
When writing your resume, focus on any experience involving responsibility, conflict resolution, or monitoring. Even retail, customer service, or volunteer roles can demonstrate relevant skills. Check out our tips on writing a strong resume for hands-on roles for formatting guidance.
Security companies hire year-round, and many positions are filled quickly due to high demand. On Workzil, you can search for security roles by type (armed, unarmed, corporate, event), shift preference, and location. Many positions offer flexible scheduling, making security work a good fit for those pursuing education or managing other commitments.
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