5 Security Jobs and Their Requirements

Whether it is a sprawling residential complex, a commercial bank, a popular tourist spot, or a prominent industrial complex, safety and security are the priority in every setting. Security personnel perform an indispensable role of safeguarding individuals and their valuable assets. Various jobs exist within the domain of security, each with its unique set of roles, responsibilities, and income levels. This article analyzes the various security jobs in the country and provides information on each: Security Guard Although the job roles and responsibilities of a security guard are varied and may differ based on the premises or buildings being guarded, some of the basic duties of security personnel are as follows: Monitoring guests’ signing in and out upon their entries and exits Safeguarding the premises from trespassers and enforcing related rules and regulations Registering the details of guests and outsiders Reporting regularly to supervisors Taking responsibility for carrying out bag-check and metal-detection procedures Carrying out regular inspections Governing activities on the premises through CCTV monitors Reporting to the supervisors and police inspectors about any suspicious activities Taking immediate action during emergency situations Forbidding individuals from entering prohibited areas Qualifications and other requirements The requirements and qualifications of security guards may differ based on the nature of the role being offered. However, most jobs require security personnel to tick the following boxes: High school or equivalent qualification A degree in security training Should be 18 years of age or above Should be physically able and agile to perform daily duties An understanding of rules and regulations governing public security and trespassing Sound training in self-defense Good observation skills and attention to detail Good problem-solving skills and presence of mind Good communication skills and ability to take charge Experience as required by the specific employer Salary projections According to reports, security personnel in the country earn a base salary of approximately $33,035 per year. However, the salary range of security guards is $872 to $12,59,570, reflecting considerable diversity in salaries. The income earned by security guards differs based on individual qualifications, capabilities, and experience. Surveillance Officer A surveillance officer has to monitor and record the ongoings in public spaces. It is a mostly sedentary job. Some of their duties include: Monitoring the activities taking place in public premises, such as streets, schools, and corporate areas Operating and checking CCTV camera footage and GPS to derive specific information Reporting any suspicious activity to other security personnel and police officers Contributing to gathering evidence of unethical activities to be presented in the court Monitoring security guards’ activities and alerting them in case of any potential issues Identifying safety hazards and taking measures actively Qualifications and other requirements A high-school diploma Excellent attention to detail and observational skills Good communication skills Problem-solving skills Physical strength and fitness Ability to work in isolation Salary projections Individuals working as surveillance officers earn approximately $39,097 per year, including the base pay and additional pay, which includes cash bonuses, commissions, tips, etc. Security Escort The role entails ensuring the safety and security of high-profile individuals, such as celebrities and government officials. Some of the major duties involve: Escorting guests from and to their vehicles at public events Physically searching individuals or using metal detectors to identify any weapons or harmful objects Announcing the arrival of guests at public events Ensuring overall safety and security at events and programs Qualifications and other requirements High-school diploma or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED) Good observational skills Physical fitness and agility Ability to write reports, monitor alarms, and check CCTV surveillance footage Sound knowledge of public safety and related rules and regulations Salary projections The average salary earned by security escorts is $53,665 per year, including the base and additional pay. The average base salary and additional income are approximately $50,192 and $3,473, respectively. Security Officer This role combines several responsibilities of the positions stated above. Some of the duties of a security officer include the following: Monitoring the arrival and exit of vehicles and people on the premises Safeguarding the area from trespassers and unruly elements Checking CCTV footage if required Monitoring the activities of security guards Guarding all entrances of the premises Submitting regular reports on the happenings on the premises based on live observations and CCTV footage Following legal protocols to take action against perpetrators if required Reporting unethical activities to other security personnel and police officers Qualifications and other requirements Prior experience as a security guard or personnel Extensive knowledge of rules and regulations regarding public safety Ability to write regular reports Excellent observation skills and attention to detail Experience with handling surveillance equipment Training in self-defense and first aid Prior registration as a security officer Salary projections The average income of a security officer is $35,334 per year. System Security Engineer The security job revolves around identifying system security requirements and finding effective solutions. Additionally, it consists of duties such as: Implementing and monitoring security measures to protect computer systems and confidential data Implementing the standard protocols governing cyber security Providing extensive information to companies about cyber-security-related incidents Providing technical solutions to resolve issues pertaining to cyber security Qualifications and other requirements A relevant certification, such as OWSE or CCNA Excellent critical thinking skills Extensive knowledge of programming, agile development processes, HTTPS, etc. Knowledge of computer programming Knowledge of injection, XSS, hijacking, etc. Ability to manage time effectively Salary projections The average income of a system security engineer ranges from $79,451 to $97,172. The salary differs based on the professional’s skills and experience. Security and safety are always the first priority in residential as well as commercial areas. Security personnel play a crucial role in maintaining peace and harmony and warding off unruly elements in society. These roles require astuteness, observation skills, physical strength, and presence of mind more than educational qualifications. Understanding what each security job role entails and the salary it offers can help one determine the most suitable role and work toward securing relevant jobs.