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
There is presently a large number of openings for security guards, so prospects are good for individuals interested in working in this occupation. Demand for this occupation appears to have remained high despite the lessened need for security guards to enforce pandemic containment measures. Applicants may find that wages being offered vary significantly across job postings, and that there are many casual and on-call opportunities. A license may be required for some positions, as would access to transportation.
Hourly Pay
$14.50
Minimum$14.81
Median$23.99
MaximumAnnual Pay
$5,139
Minimum$23,096
Median$46,506
MaximumCompared to: All Sales and Service
Hourly Pay
$12.95
Minimum$15.00
Median$25.60
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
$25,140 median annual incomeCape Breton
$21,074 median annual incomeNorth Shore
$19,048 median annual incomeAnnapolis Valley
$25,895 median annual incomeSouthern
$17,111 median annual incomeCompared 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 incomeTrade Certification
$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 incomeTrade Certification
$21,234 median annual incomeEducation & training
High School Diploma or Equivalent
High School ProgramAdults without a high school diploma can contact the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning (NSSAL) for tuition-free programming across the province. NSSAL oversees adult education programs in Nova Scotia. NSSAL partners with the Nova Scotia Community College, Adult High Schools, Université Sainte-Anne, and community-based learning organizations to deliver programs. NSSAL offers clear, accessible pathways from adult basic education to a high school credential or GED.
Institutions providing this program
Various, NS
Various, NS
Various, NS
Security and Loss Prevention Services
College or Trades ProgramThese programs prepare students to perform routine inspection, patrol and crime prevention services for security companies. They include courses in the provision of personal protection as well as property security.
Institutions providing this program
Various, NS
Employment requirements & contacts
No regulating bodies were found under this occupation profile
No contacts were found under this occupation profileAdditional resources
There are no additional resources for this occupation.