Security Officers and Guards

  • The Job
  • The Facts
  • Related Courses

What the job involves

  • Patrolling property and checking doors, windows and gates for unauthorised entry
  • Watching for irregularities such as fire hazards, malfunctions of machines and equipment, lights left on, leaking water pipes and unlocked security doors
  • Issuing security passes to authorised visitors and giving directions
  • Monitoring alarms and contacting supervisors, police and fire brigades by radio or phone if security is breached or fire is detected
  • Picking up and ensuring the safe delivery of cash, payrolls and valuables
  • Operating coin and currency counting machines, and carrying out cash counting and packaging functions
  • Maintaining order at venues where there are large gatherings of people
  • Conducting investigations for clients and preparing evidence for court proceedings
  • Detecting and investigating theft and other unlawful acts carried out in retail establishments
  • Advising clients on security requirements and designing security specifications

Key values of workers in Security Officers and Guards

  • Relationships

    Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.

  • Independence

    Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.

  • Achievement

    Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.

  • Working Conditions

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.

  • Recognition

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

Top skills required for workers in Security Officers and Guards

  • Monitoring

    Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

  • Speaking

    Talking to others to convey information effectively.

  • Critical Thinking

    Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

  • Coordination

    Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

  • Reading Comprehension

    Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.