When there’s trouble, like a break-in, a fight, or someone sneaking onto a site, security guards are the ones who step in. They help keep people safe and things running smoothly, whether it’s in a hospital, warehouse, or packed concert.

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• What a security guard is, where they work, and their duties
• Different types of guards
• How to become one
• Security guard job outlook and salaries
• Finding and hiring guards

Let’s start by discussing what security guards are.

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What is a security guard?

Security guards are hired to protect people, property, or both. They check IDs at gates, walk through warehouses at night, and keep an eye on surveillance screens. At the end of the day, their job is to spot trouble early and deal with it fast, before things get worse.

You’ll hear people use the terms security guard and security officer like they mean the same thing. In a lot of places, they do. But technically, some states or companies use “officer” for roles with a little more training or responsibility, like carrying a firearm or supervising a site.

The job’s changed a lot over the years. It used to be mostly patrols and paper logbooks. Now there’s tech involved in security guarding — you might work with things like mobile apps, live camera feeds, and real-time reporting. Clients want faster updates, and guards need to stay sharp with tools that didn’t even exist ten years ago.

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Security guard duties and responsibilities in 2025

Security guards have a lot on their plates, and the job goes way beyond just walking around or standing at a front desk. Depending on where they’re posted, guards may deal with everything from angry customers to major safety threats — and everything in between. 

But no matter the site, there are a few core responsibilities you’ll find in most roles:

• Monitoring and patrolling: Guards are the eyes and ears on the ground. They walk the property, check for unlocked doors, broken equipment, or anything that looks out of place. Some guards stay in one spot, like a front entrance or security booth, while others follow a regular patrol route. Today, many companies use tools like Belfry, so supervisors can see exactly when and where each round is done.
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• Reporting and responding to incidents: When something happens, like a break-in, fight, or safety issue, guards come in to handle the situation. They write up incident reports and often call in police or emergency responders if things get serious. Sometimes, guards use tools like Belfry that make it easier to submit incident reports right from their phones.
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• Managing access points: A key part of security guard responsibilities is checking IDs, signing people in and out, and making sure only the right folks get into certain areas. This helps prevent theft, trespassing, or unwanted visitors.
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• Surveillance and threat assessment: Guards often monitor live camera feeds, alarms, and access control systems. In places like casinos, hospitals, or corporate offices, threat detection is part of the daily routine. It could be someone casing the property, a suspicious bag left behind, or unusual activity after hours. Good guards help spot the signs early.
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• Customer service and conflict resolution: Guards often interact with employees, residents, guests, or customers. That means they need to stay professional, calm, and helpful, even when people are upset or confrontational. For guards, having solid people skills is just as important as physical presence.
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• Emergency response and evacuation support: During fires, medical emergencies, or natural disasters, guards help clear buildings, guide people to safety, and assist emergency crews. Many sites have emergency protocols, and guards are expected to know them inside and out. Some companies also require training in CPR, first aid, or AED use.
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• Checking equipment and safety hazards: In places like construction sites, factories, or warehouses, guards might also be responsible for spotting safety risks, like leaks, exposed wires, or broken fencing. They may also check that security tools like gates, cameras, and motion detectors are working properly.
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• Writing daily activity logs: Even on quiet shifts, guards keep track of what happened and when. These logs are helpful for site managers, especially if something comes up later and they need to piece together a timeline. Tools like Belfry help to make incident reporting simpler and easier overall.

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What are the types of security guards?

Not all security guard jobs are the same. Some roles are low-risk and people-facing, while others involve high-risk sites and even weapons. Here’s a breakdown of the main types:

Unarmed guards

Unarmed security guards are the most common. They handle things like patrolling, checking IDs, writing reports, and watching for suspicious behavior. You’ll find them at apartment complexes, retail stores, offices, and community events. These jobs focus more on presence and prevention rather than physical intervention.

Armed security guards

Armed guards carry a firearm on the job, which means they go through extra training and certification. These roles come with more risk and responsibility, so they need to meet specific armed guard requirements. They’re usually posted at places like banks, government buildings, armored transport, or high-end retail. Armed guard jobs tend to pay more, too, especially in high-crime areas or specialized roles.

Private security guards

These guards are hired directly by a company, property owner, or individual (and not through a public law enforcement agency). They often cover long-term assignments like corporate buildings, industrial sites, or gated communities. Private security guards may be armed or unarmed, depending on the location and the client's needs.

Event security

Event guards work at concerts, sports games, festivals, and other large gatherings. They’re in charge of crowd control, bag checks, and stopping trouble before it spreads. These jobs can be fast-paced and unpredictable, especially at rowdy or high-attendance events.

Surveillance and monitoring roles

Some guards spend most of their shift behind a screen. These surveillance jobs involve monitoring security cameras, alarms, and access control systems. A lot of these roles is about catching problems as they unfold on video and responding quickly.

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Where do security guards work?

Security guards work just about anywhere people or property need protection. Some stay at a single post, while others move between sites or handle patrol routes. Here are some of the most common places you'll find them:

• Commercial properties: Office buildings, malls, parking lots, and warehouses hire guards to prevent theft, manage access, and help employees and customers feel safe.
  
  
• Hospitals and healthcare: These spots need guards who can stay calm under pressure. They manage entrances, handle tense situations with patients or guests, and step in when things get out of hand.
  
  
• Construction sites: Tools and materials can be tempting targets, so guards patrol overnight, check workers in and out, and keep an eye out for trespassers or hazards.
  
  
• Events and large venues: Concerts, sports games, and festivals bring in big crowds and big risks. Guards handle bag checks, watch for fights, and help keep things under control.
  
  
• Casinos and gaming surveillance: These roles mix floor patrol with behind-the-scenes surveillance jobs. Guards watch camera feeds, track activity, and deal with issues fast to keep the gaming floor peaceful.
  
  
• Schools and universities: Guards help manage visitor access, respond to emergencies, and support teachers and staff during tough situations and active shooter events.
  
  
• Airports and transit stations: With so many people coming and going, guards handle crowd control, suspicious behavior, and access points, often working alongside law enforcement.
  
  
• Residential buildings and gated communities: In these areas, guards help with access control, patrols, and responding to disturbances or resident concerns.
  
  
• Factories and industrial sites: These places need guards to protect equipment, monitor shift changes, and watch for safety issues.

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How to become a security officer (or guard)

Getting started as a security guard or officer isn’t complicated, but there are a few boxes you’ll need to check first. The rules vary a bit by state, but here’s what most folks can expect:

• Basic eligibility: You need to be at least 18 years old (21 in some states). You’ll also need to pass a background check and be legally allowed to work in the United States. Some states require a clean criminal record, while others allow certain offenses depending on the role. It’s best to check with your state’s licensing authority to make sure you qualify before you commit to courses.
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• Licensing and training: Many states require a guard card or license. To get one, you’ll usually take a short training course online or in person. Topics cover things like basic laws, patrol procedures, and emergency response. Armed security guards go through extra firearms training and have to qualify at a shooting range.
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• Security guard education requirements: Most employers ask for a high school diploma or GED. Beyond that, you might need CPR certification, a firearm permit, or specialized training like crowd control, depending on the job. Some of this can be done online, but hands-on training is often required for things like first aid or firearm use.
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• Other requirements: Some employers ask for a valid driver's license for patrolling in a vehicle. Others may ask for experience in customer service, especially for roles where you’ll interact with the public.

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What’s the average security guard salary and career outlook?

How much do security guards make? It depends on the site, the risk level, and your experience. According to ZipRecruiter, the average yearly security guard salary in the U.S. is around $39,000, but it ranges quite a bit. Here’s what you can expect:

• Low end: Entry-level or part-time guards may earn closer to $24,000 per year, especially in smaller towns or unarmed roles.
  
  
• Mid-range: Most full-time guards fall between $30,000 and $40,000, depending on the site and shift schedule.
  
  
• High end: Armed security guards, guards with special certifications, or those working at high-risk sites (like government buildings or banks) can earn $50,000–$65,000 or more.

Several things can boost your pay. These include:

• Having a firearm permit or other advanced certifications
  
• Working night shifts or overtime
  
• Taking jobs in major cities or higher-crime areas
  
• Prior military or law enforcement experience

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What does the future of a security guard career look like?

The demand for security guards is steady and growing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are more than 1 million security guard jobs in the U.S., and that number is expected to keep rising at a 2% growth over the next several years. New openings are expected to come from a mix of growth and turnover, which means there will be plenty of opportunities for folks entering the field.

Certain industries are hiring more guards than ever before. That includes:

• Healthcare: Hospitals and clinics need guards who can handle sensitive situations and high foot traffic.
  
• Event security: Large gatherings bring crowd control risks and the need for a visible presence.
  
• Private property and gated communities: More folks are investing in private security for peace of mind.

Tech is changing the job, too. Security guards today use tools like Belfry to report incidents, track patrols, and stay in touch with supervisors in real time. Surveillance systems, body cams, and automated alerts are also becoming the norm. 

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How to find and hire professional security guards

Hiring solid, reliable guards is about finding the right people who’ll represent your company well and handle the job when things get tough. Here are a few things you can do to find the right people:

• Use targeted hiring channels: Job boards like Indeed and ZipRecruiter can help, but don’t stop there. Reach out to local training schools, veterans’ organizations, or even police academies. These sources often bring in people with discipline, experience, and a serious interest in security work.
  
  
• Hire directly or through an agency: Staffing agencies can fill roles quickly, but the cost adds up. Hiring directly gives you more control over training, standards, and team culture. For long-term growth, building your own crew tends to work better.
  
  
• Confirm all credentials: Make sure each candidate has what they need to legally work — this includes guard cards, any required state licenses, and firearms permits for armed roles. Don’t skip this step, even if they “seem legit.”
  
  
• Ask the right questions: Interviews should go beyond, “Can you work nights?” Ask how they’ve handled conflict, dealt with emergencies, or followed post orders. You want someone who can stay calm and think clearly on the job.
  
  
• Run background checks and follow up on references: It takes a little extra time, but it’s worth it. A guard with a history of walking off the job or getting into trouble could cost you a contract or damage your reputation.

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What are the challenges faced by security guard companies?

Running a security company isn’t easy. Even with high demand, a lot of owners and managers run into the same headaches over and over. Here’s what they’re dealing with right now:

• Staff shortages and high turnover: It’s hard to find good guards, and even harder to keep them. Long hours, low pay at entry-level, and tough working conditions can burn people out fast. Focus on hiring the right people, not just anyone who applies. Offer steady schedules, treat guards with respect, and give them a clear path to grow into higher-paying roles like armed positions or field supervisors.
  
  
• Rising client expectations: Clients don’t just want a warm body on-site anymore. They want real-time updates, professional-looking reports, and proof that the job’s getting done right. Use tools that help you give real-time info, like mobile check-ins, GPS tracking, and digital incident reports. That way, clients see the value in your work and stay loyal longer.
  
  
• Liability and compliance: One missed license renewal can turn into a big legal or financial problem. If your team includes an armed guard or a registered private patrol officer, the licensing and training rules get even tighter. Use a system that tracks license renewals, certifications, and guard training. Belfry does this automatically, so you’re not caught off guard.
  
  
• Old-school reporting systems: Many companies still rely on paper logs or clunky tools that slow everything down. That can lead to missed incidents, late reports, and frustrated clients. Switch to a digital platform where guards can check in, report incidents, and log tours from their phone. It saves time, reduces mistakes, and gives you a real-time view of what’s happening in the field.
  
  
• Training gaps: Some guards show up without the proper prep for the site they’re working. That may lead to mistakes, misunderstandings, and sometimes even safety risks. Set up simple training plans for different types of sites. Even just one or two days of shadowing can make a huge difference. 

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Frequently asked questions

Where can security guards work?

Security guards can work just about anywhere that needs protection, like shopping centers, apartment complexes, construction sites, hospitals, and big events like concerts or sports games. Some work in jobs inside casinos or corporate buildings, watching surveillance cameras. Others patrol outdoors or guard entry points at gated communities. It all depends on the type of job and the company hiring.

How old do you have to be to be a security guard?

In most states, it’s 18 for unarmed roles. But if you’re applying for armed positions or jobs at certain sites (like airports), the minimum age could be 21.

How do I become a licensed security guard?

To become a licensed security guard, you’ll usually need to be at least 18, pass a background check, and complete some basic training. Most states require you to apply for a guard card or similar license. Some places ask for a bit more, like CPR certification or extra coursework if you’re going for armed guard jobs. Once you’ve got your paperwork and training done, you’re good to start applying.

How long does it take to get a security guard license?

In most states, you can get licensed in just a few weeks if you’re on top of the process. Some guard training courses only take a few days, especially for unarmed positions. The time it takes mostly depends on how fast your background check and paperwork go through.

What qualifications do I need to become a security guard?

You don’t need a college degree, but you do need a high school diploma or GED. Some employers might ask for more if you're going into specialized roles like private security guards or armed security guards. It helps to have good communication skills, stay alert, and be comfortable standing for long hours. Extra certifications like first aid or firearms training can also open more doors.

Do security guards carry weapons?

Some do, but not all. Armed security guards need extra training and a firearm permit, and the rules for carrying a weapon depend on your state. Unarmed guards usually focus more on patrols, access control, and watching for trouble without needing a weapon. Whether a guard is armed or not depends on the job site, the company, and local laws.

Is being a security guard a good career choice?

If you’re looking for steady work and like being active, a security guard career can be a solid choice. There's demand in a bunch of industries, and shifts can be flexible. Some folks use it as a stepping stone into law enforcement, while others stick with it long-term and move up into higher-paying roles, especially in high-risk, management, or armed positions.

How does technology improve security guard operations?

Technology makes the job easier and helps security workers do their jobs better. These days, guards can check in through mobile apps, file incident reports in real time, and use patrol tracking systems that prove they’re doing their rounds. Tools like Belfry help security companies track licensing, handle scheduling, and avoid mix-ups with reports or shift coverage.

What’s the difference between a security guard and a private patrol officer?

A private patrol officer is a term used in some states (like California) for licensed guards who work for a private patrol operator. It usually refers to someone officially registered and trained to do contract security work.

Can security guards work part-time or overnight shifts?

Yes. Many security guard jobs offer flexible scheduling, including part-time, overnight, and weekend shifts. This makes it a good option for people who need work that fits around other responsibilities.

What’s the job outlook for security guards in 2025?

The demand for security guards is steady and expected to keep growing, especially in healthcare, private property, and event security. According to the BLS, thousands of new openings are expected each year due to both growth and turnover.

Are there different types of security guard jobs?

Yes. Some guards patrol sites on foot or by vehicle, others monitor surveillance systems, and some handle access control at a front desk. There are also armed guard jobs, event security roles, and specialized positions in places like casinos or government buildings.

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How Belfry can help you manage your security guards

Running a security team sounds simple until you're the one doing it. You’re filling last-minute shifts, chasing down missing reports, and trying to keep track of which security guards need to renew their licenses. Maybe you’ve got a spreadsheet for schedules, a calendar for certifications, and a group chat that’s blowing up at all hours. Things can get messy fast — but there are tools like Belfry that can help.

Belfry is an all-in-one platform made for security companies. You can handle scheduling, licenses, incident reports, and guard check-ins all from one place. It's simple, fast, and gives you the visibility you need to keep everything running without the daily scramble.

Here’s how:

• Easy scheduling: Minimize scheduling conflicts and avoid unmanned shifts thanks to Belfry’s automated scheduling features that assign shifts based on site requirements, officer certifications, and training.
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• Increased officer accountability: Belfry has GPS tracking and NFC-based guided tours to help you make sure your guards are adhering to their post orders. Geofencing alerts help alert you if a guard leaves their designated area.
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• Digital incident reporting: Goodbye pen and paper — guards can more easily keep you up-to-date by sending digital incident reports through the Belfry mobile app. They can even attach any evidence if needed.
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• Track certifications: Prevent license compliance lapses by inputting your officers’ licenses and certifications. Belfry tracks renewal dates automatically and sends notifications when they’re coming up.
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• Custom reporting: Need to create reports? Belfry allows you to design tailored reports, including incident documentation, patrol activities, and compliance status.
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• Simplified payroll: Belfry automates time and attendance tracking to make payroll easier. It also tracks overtime, labor expenses, and timesheets to make financial reporting a breeze.

Ready to see how Belfry can help you manage your security operation? Schedule a Free Belfry Demo today.