The Various Types Of Security Jobs
Among the most sought after jobs nowadays are in the security jobs industry. Recent estimates by ASIS International, an authority in the industry, indicate that security has become a $100 Billion industry with a high expectation for growth in years to come. The industry has become quite appealing to most young professionals due to its flexibility and ease of rising from an entry level of a junior security officer to managerial levels in major corporations. It has also emerged as an essential service for every organization due to the fact that security breaches, in the 21st century, have increased in number and complexity. For example, retail stores and malls confront shoplifting incidences frequently, and major companies have to deal with data theft threats and privacy issues. Cybercrime, theft, fraud, shoplifting and workplace violence have become so commonplace that companies and organizations can not survive without security personnel and proper systems installations.
Types Of Security Jobs Available Today
Jobs in the security industry fall into the following categories:
1. Proprietary security
Proprietary security jobs are often found in large corporations and organizations where the potential for security breaches is high and expected at any time. In such cases, the companies employ their own security personnel to oversee a wide range of security related services. Some of these services include:
- Installation and maintenance of equipments and systems such access control, CCTV, and intrusion detections systems among others.
- To perform risk assessment procedures.
- Conduct investigations when a security breach occurs or is detected.
- Provision of uniformed personnel to man entry and exit points.
- Transportation of valuable documents or items.
- Security for the companys personnel.
2. Personal Security Guards
Positions in this category are usually on-demand jobs, and hardly long-term positions. Contrary to popular opinion, personal security guards are not only hired by celebrities or wealthy individuals. There are many instances when a person needs services of a personal security guard while on holiday in unknown locations or when it is absolutely necessary to visit a known high crime rate neighborhood. Anyone who knows or feels there is a potential for threat to his or her personal safety can hire a bodyguard. Security professionals in this field are usually experienced in hand-to-hand combat, crowd control, and in handling concealed weapons. A common prerequisite for these jobs is successful completion of martial arts and self defense courses.
3. Security System Installers
Similar to security professionals working for major companies, you could also be hired as a security system installer by homeowners or small retail stores. However, you would need to posses the necessary skills for the job which includes alarm systems installation and electronics. Jobs in this category are quite common in jobs/employment websites. The job contract could either be part-time or full-time. A clean and crime free background would be a big plus.
4. Shopping Malls And Retail Stores Security
Shopping malls normally have several stores located in one building. This poses a greater security threat, especially with thousands of shoppers using the facilities every single day. Chaos and confusion are apt to arise at any moment. Security personnel in such places assist consumers and protect the merchandise. It is also necessary to hire loss prevention staffs who are actually security personnel who patrol the stores on the look out for shoplifters.
There are many ways you can look for your ideal security job. You can do an online search in jobs and employment websites, browse through a newspapers jobs section, or apply wherever you see a hiring now sign. It is also worth to remember that many large companies, malls, and financial institutions prefer to work with company employed security personnel. Most work with reputable and well established companies.