Security Guards and Gaming Surveillance Officers

Opportunities for individuals trained as either security guards or gaming surveillance officers is considered to be quite favorable right now. If an individual wishes to acquire a higher paying job then the individual must be prepared to face an extremely competitive market. The competition is greatest when applying for a security position at a facility that requires a high level of security. Facilities such as this are weapons industries and nuclear power plants. Many individuals are attracted to the field of security and surveillance because the job requires limited training and the hours are often very flexible. Positions in security and surveillance are perfect for job applicants seeking a part-time or second job. Several positions in the field of security are quite dangerous. One of the most dangerous positions is the patrol of an armored car.

Security officers or security guards are responsible for the patrolling and inspecting of property against illegal activity, vandalism, terrorism, theft and fire. The security guards must protect an employer’s piece of property. Essentially, a security guard’s primary job is to deter criminal activity, enforce and uphold laws. In order to communicate with the owner of the property of other security officers the guards have a radio in case they need to contact medical, services, emergency services, the fire department or police department. A security guard is required to write out reports at the end of each shift. In the report the security guard will mention their activities and observations while on the job. These reports can be used as evidence in court cases.

A security guard may be employed by a financial institution, bank, department store, retail store or in other public establishments. Some movie theaters and shopping malls hire security guards to patrol their parking lots and outside areas. Other security guards are employed by airports, railroad terminals and other transportation facilities. A security is given permission is use metal detectors and other pieces of equipment in order to screen boarding passengers. Security guards who are employed by public institutions, such as courthouses, are required to screen all persons and packages entering and leaving the building. A security guard is to ensure the safety of the individuals around them.

Gaming surveillance officers are security guards that specifically work for a casino or gaming institution.

Over ten percent of security guards work part-time. The pay for a security guard is considered to be medium increasing with the level of security the job in question requires.