Whether employed by museums, military bases, or casinos, security guards and gaming surveillance officers observe and patrol operations to maintain order and protect property against theft, vandalism, and illegal activity. Security guards enforce rules on a property, and deter criminal activity, either by walking the facility and grounds to conduct security checks, or monitoring surveillance cameras and alarms. They guard merchandise in retail stores… students and facilities at universities and schools… verify visitor IDs and keep facilities safe at factories, office buildings, hospitals, and military bases. At sporting events and concerts, guards control crowds and direct traffic… while at bars they may collect cover charges and check IDs. At casinos, gaming surveillance officers and gaming investigators watch video monitors fed by hidden cameras to check for cheating and theft —by either employees or patrons. They notify security staff when they spot any potential trouble. Security and surveillance work calls for either many hours sitting in front of screens, or long shifts spent standing or patrolling. It can be routine work…. until a problem arises when it can become hazardous. Work schedules typically include nights and weekends. Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with video surveillance is helpful. Security guards may need to register with the state, especially if they carry a firearm. Drug testing is common, before and during employment.
What they do:
Guard, patrol, or monitor premises to prevent theft, violence, or infractions of rules. May operate x-ray and metal detector equipment.
On the job, you would:
Lock doors and gates of entrances and exits to secure buildings.
Answer alarms and investigate disturbances.
Monitor and authorize entrance and departure of employees, visitors, and other persons to guard against theft and maintain security of premises.
Safety and Government
public safety and security
Arts and Humanities
English language
Business
customer service
Basic Skills
listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
Social
changing what is done based on other people's actions
understanding people's reactions
Verbal
listen and understand what people say
communicate by speaking
Attention
pay attention to something without being distracted
People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
Integrity
Dependability
Self Control
Attention to Detail
Cooperation
Adaptability/Flexibility
You might use software like this on the job:
Spreadsheet software
IBM Lotus 1-2-3
Microsoft Excel
Video conferencing software
FaceTime
Office suite software
Corel WordPerfect Office Suite
Microsoft Office
high school diploma/GED usually needed
Get started on your career:
New job opportunities are very likely in the future.
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