Security Guards and Related Security Service Workers
(NOC 6541)
in All Sales and ServiceThis group includes workers who guard and implement security measures to protect property against theft, vandalism and fire, control access to organisations, maintain order and enforce regulations at public events and within institutions, conduct private investigations for clients or employers and provide other protective services. They work for public or private security agencies, residential complexes, educational, cultural, financial, and health institutions, retail stores, businesses and industry, investigation service companies, transportation facilities, and organizations throughout the private and public sectors, or they may be self-employed.
Job Outlook
Average
Read more
Compared to: All Sales and Service
The effect of COVID-19 on this occupation has been mixed. The transition of many workers from office spaces to remote work, as well as reduced foot traffic in commercial and public buildings, has diminished the need for security guards in some settings. Conversely, some retail shops have hired additional security guards to enforce occupancy and physical distancing rules. The relative stress and difficulty associated with these tasks, as well as the immediate need to fill this type of position, has prompted employers to offer wages well above the normal rate for this occupation.
There does not appear to have been a clear increase or decrease in employment in this occupation in recent years, though technological developments may reduce the need for security guards in certain settings. High turnover is a major contributor to vacancies in this occupation.
The median employment income for the 46% of Security Guards and Related Security Service Workers who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $30,491. Across all occupations in Nova Scotia, the 59% of those who worked full-time, year-round had a median employment income of $43,600. (Source: 2016 Census)
Hourly Pay
$12.95
Minimum$14.00
Median$22.86
MaximumAnnual Pay
$5,139
Minimum$23,096
Median$46,506
MaximumCompared to: All Sales and Service
Hourly Pay
$12.55
Minimum$18.36
Median$22.50
MaximumAnnual Pay
$2,949
Minimum$16,629
Median$45,086
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
This group includes workers who guard and implement security measures to protect property against theft, vandalism and fire, control access to organisations, maintain order and enforce regulations at public events and within institutions, conduct private investigations for clients or employers and provide other protective services. They work for public or private security agencies, residential complexes, educational, cultural, financial, and health institutions, retail stores, businesses and industry, investigation service companies, transportation facilities, and organizations throughout the private and public sectors, or they may be self-employed.
Job duties
Security guards:
- Control access to institutions, use security control-room equipment and patrol assigned areas to guard against theft, vandalism, and fire.
- Enforce regulations to maintain order and resolve conflicts and to monitor organization activities.
- Make sure safety and emergency procedures are followed.
- Issue passes and direct visitors to appropriate areas, check age identification of patrons, and perform security checks of passengers and luggage at airports.
Armoured car guards:
- Drive and guard armoured trucks, pick-up and deliver cash and valuables to banks, automated teller machines and retail businesses.
Corporate security officers:
- Investigate unlawful acts of employees or patrons of businesses.
- Recommend security systems like electronic detection devices and access devices.
Private investigators:
- Investigate to locate missing persons.
- Get information for use in civil and criminal litigation matters or for other purposes.
- May also conduct polygraph tests (integrity surveys) for clients.
Retail loss prevention officers:
- Prevent and detect shoplifting and theft in retail businesses.
Sample job titles
- bodyguard (except police)
- bouncer - security
- commissionaire - security
- loss prevention officer - retail
- private detective
- private investigator
- retail loss prevention officer
- school crossing guard
- security alarm system consultant
- security guard
Skills
You should be physically fit and in excellent health, and have a valid driver's licence. Cultural sensitivity, patience, and mental stability are important. You must be resourceful and able to work on your own carrying out instructions given by your employer. It will be necessary to gain a good knowledge of the regulations pertaining to your work. Excellent communication, observation, and problem-solving skills are essential. You should also be able to communicate with and gain the respect of the public. Candidates are required to pass the appropriate background check.
Job requirements
- High school is usually required.
- A college diploma in law and security or police technology may be required.
- Training is provided for airport security guards and company-specific training may be provided for security jobs in this group.
- Security guards carrying firearms require a licence.
- Armoured car drivers require a Valid Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) and a Firearms Acquisition Certificate (FAC) for both restricted and non-restricted firearms.
- Private investigators require provincial licensure.
- Responsible beverage service certification is usually required for security staff in businesses serving alcoholic beverages.
Other considerations
Corporate security officers may require experience as a police officer.
By the numbers
Quick look
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Compared to: All Sales and Service
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Where will I likely work?
Halifax
Cape Breton
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Southern
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services
Public administration
Educational services
Transportation and warehousing
Retail trade
What is the age of Employment?
55-64
65+
45-54
25-34
15-24
35-44
Compared to: All Sales and Service
15-24
45-54
25-34
55-64
35-44
Top levels of education
High school
$22,157 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$26,284 median annual incomeLess than high school
$20,319 median annual incomeBachelor
$22,408 median annual incomeApprenticeship
$24,556 median annual incomeCompared to: All Sales and Service
High school
$15,705 median annual incomeLess than high school
$9,866 median annual incomeCollege Diploma
$20,644 median annual incomeBachelor
$21,262 median annual incomeApprenticeship
$21,234 median annual incomeEducation & training
Adult high school/secondary diploma programs
This program is typically offered at the high school level.The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning (NSSAL) administers, coordinates, and supports the development and delivery of adult education programs through learning partners in Nova Scotia. Our learning partners include the Nova Scotia Community College, Adult High Schools, Université Sainte-Anne, and community-based learning organizations that offer tuition-free programming across the province. NSSAL offers clear, accessible pathways from adult basic education to a high school credential or GED, empowering Nova Scotians to achieve their learning and employment goals.
Institutions providing this program
Siège Social: 1695, Route 1
Pointe-de-l'Église, NS B0W 1M0
(902) 769-2114
PO Box 220
Halifax, NS B3J 2M4
(866) 679-6722
Various, NS
Various, NS
Securities services administration/management
This program may be offered at the college, trades, or university level.This instructional program class includes any program that prepares individuals to plan, manage, and supervise services providing private security protection for people and property and related investigative and consulting functions. These programs include courses in security and loss prevention services, private security and investigation techniques, security technologies, personnel management, business operations, marketing, applicable laws and regulations, and client relations.
Security and loss prevention services
This program is typically offered at the trades/college level.This instructional program class includes any program that prepares individuals to perform routine inspection, patrol and crime prevention services for security companies. These programs include courses in the provision of personal protection as well as property security.
Institutions providing this program
36 Arthur Street
Truro, NS B2N 1X5
(902) 893-5385
Employment requirements & contacts
No regulating bodies were found under this occupation profile
Contacts
Additional resources
There are no additional resources for this occupation.
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Job postings
There are currently no job postings for this occupation.