The work of a Security Guard

Security officer duties include protecting people, places and property from potential threats. Although the security officer job description varies, depending on the specific work setting, security guard duties focus primarily on preventing crime. A vigilant security force deters criminals who are intent on committing theft, vandalism, sabotage, cyber attacks, physical violence or terrorism. Without the proactive work of security guards, law enforcement would be overwhelmed, as it reacts to crimes that otherwise would likely have been prevented.

Although being a security officer can be exciting at times, the typical security officer job description emphasizes the importance of consistency and routine. For instance, security guard duties include locking doors, watching surveillance footage for hours, patrolling a quiet area and monitoring alarms. Security guards look for signs of suspicious activity in the shadows, listen for unusual sounds in a locked building and write daily reports. If an incident occurs, such as an attempted break in by a juvenile, security officers can make a citizens arrest and summon police. In more serious situations, they call 911 and request back up. Providing witness testimony in court may also be required of them.

About 1.1 million people work as security officers in the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2017. Society directly benefits from the presence of security officers in private residences and heavily frequented public spaces. Examples of places that rely on security protection include airports, concert venues, casinos, correctional facilities, schools, college campuses, hotels, retail stores, apartments and gated communities. The role of security agents directly ties into their function as watchdog of the public order. If a fire or major disaster occurs, security officers work closely with police and fire fighters to secure the scene and maintain order.