Training for security positions vary. For example training required for the job of the security manager of a bank would be quite different from the one required for the job of the security operations manager for a nuclear power plant.
Most often individuals seek out security management jobs in industries that they are familiar with. For example individuals who have spent their careers within accounting firms will feel more comfortable in seeking out security positions at such places where accounting jobs are being carried out. This could very well be a bank or a lending institution.
Security jobs often attract a variety of individuals. Often it’s because it’s a never-ending job with a constant shift in scene. In most cases it is never boring. Plus the hours are flexible, as you are required to work in shifts. The wages, however, are not always the greatest, at least at the entry levels. Security jobs involved with private industries are better paying. Venues for public events usually require the services of security guards and the payments are done on the basis of per event. Then there are some large hotels and events halls that require ongoing security. They will either contract to a security guard company, or set up their own group of guards.
Security positions are perfect as part time work for students or other individuals who want part time jobs. Security officers find themselves in a whole variety of situations or assignments. It’s usually only after many years of being on the job and gaining a thorough experience that one becomes a security manager. This is because of the great responsibility they have to undertake. Not only are they responsible for the security of the job location and requirements of the companies hiring them, they are responsible for the safety of the staff as well.
In reality there is really very little formal training when it comes to this industry. Security guard training schools are, however, becoming more popular these days. These are not always a necessity to have on your resume though, when applying for a security position. Often the hiring company prefers to have its own training program that suits its requirements.
Some states and cities require special licensing for security guards. They are most often required to have a fair knowledge of certain aspects of the law. If the security guards happen to come across individuals who are committing some criminal acts, they must be aware of these acts as being criminal.
The duties of the security manager vary and may require patrolling and property inspection to ensure against any illegal activities such as vandalism or arson, or even theft. It is the security managers’ job to ensure that there is enough trained staff on hand to be able to cover all of the allotted locations, should there be more than one. The managers must be in position to respond to any call placed to them. They must be able to take the authority that is required by the situation they have responded to.
Often the security manager will have to deal directly with law enforcement agencies. Ability to provide precise and accurate details about the incidents is paramount. There is always the possibility that the managers or security guards will be called to testify in court regarding the occurrences.
It is up to the security managers to ensure that their staff has all of the proper training required. They must ensure that each guard is very astute at keeping informative and professional notes. These notes must be accurate, honest, and legible. They may be required for court purposes.
Some security management jobs will require the use of guard dogs. It will be the responsibility of the security managers to ensure that the dogs are well trained and proficient at doing their jobs. The managers also need to see to it that they have proper dog handlers who are not only trained in this area, but in the area of security as well.
It must be instilled in the security guards that they are not police officers and do not have the powers that those officers have. In most cases it will be their job to notify the police of any breach of security. Each state has its own rules and regulations pertaining to security personnel. It is the responsibility of security managers to ensure that each member of their team is fully aware of the rights and the restrictions.
Communication skills are a priority requirement for all positions involved in security services. Security managers must ensure that all concerned have some means of communication, be it radio or phone. Continuous contact is a must because of the nature of the business.
Individuals interested in becoming security managers will have to list details regarding various aspects on their resumes, including their experience, skills, and training. Security managers are entrusted with a lot of responsibility; they enjoy the trust of the corporations and the staff under them as well.
