Created by Madison Skinner

Introduction  Being a security officer is something to be proud of. A security officer protects people, and the job can be challenging even dangerous. Officers have to be licensed, and there are certain safety measures and skills they have to learn. Security officers can save lives, stop terrorism, and make entire neighborhoods feel more comfortable.

Introduction  Under the right circumstances, a Security Officer can make a good career. There can be opportunities for increased rank and advancements, and may go on to start their own contracted security companies.

What Security Officer do?  Security officers patrol and protect property against theft, vandalism, terrorism, and illegal activity.

Work Environment  Security Officer work in a wide variety of places, including public buildings, retail stores, and office buildings. Gaming surveillance officers work mostly in casino observation rooms, using audio and video equipment. Because many buildings and casinos are open 24 hours a day, guards often must work around the clock.

Job Outlook  Employment of security Officer and gaming surveillance officers is projected to grow 12 percent from 2012 to 2022, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Overall job opportunities should be excellent, especially for security officers.

What kinds of risks do security officers really face?  The rate of fatal injuries to security officers in 2007 was 9.4 out of 100,000 workers. Although this may seem like a small percentage, it is more than twice the rate of 3.8 out of 100,000 fatal injuries for all workers. What is worse, 51% of these fatalities were a result of homicides.

Salaries possibilities  $27,490 (Las Vegas-Paradise, NV )  $22,810 (Miami-Miami Beach-Kendall, FL )  $21,010 (Northeast Mississippi )  $24,000 (Alabama)

Responsibilities  Secures premises and personnel by patrolling property; monitoring surveillance equipment; inspecting buildings, equipment, and access points; permitting entry.  Obtains help by sounding alarms.  Controls traffic by directing drivers.  Prevents loss and damage by reporting irregularities; informing violators of policy and procedures; restraining trespassers.

More Responsibilities  Completes reports by recording observations, information, occurrences, and surveillance activities; interviewing witnesses; obtaining signatures.  Maintains environment by monitoring and setting building and equipment controls  Maintains organization's stability and reputation by complying with legal requirements.

Skills Needed:  Lifting  Surveillance Skills  Judgment  Dependability  Emotional Control  Integrity  Safety Management  Professionalism  Reporting Skills

Education Alabama currently has no requirements mandated by the state to become a professional security guard. Typically companies do mandate the security guards applying for employment meet the following criteria.  Applicant must be at least 18 years of age  High School Diploma or G.E.D.  No diagnosed mental illness  No felonies or criminal convections  Pass a drug screening test  US citizen or registered resident alien  Armed Security Guards may require firearm training

Job Benefits  Low-Cost Health/Dental Insurance (Single Coverage)  Accrue Thirteen Annual Leave Days per Year  Thirteen Paid Holidays per Year  Flexible Employee Benefit Plans  Optional Family Coverage (Health/Dental)  Accrue Thirteen Sick Days per Year  Retirement Plan  Optional Deferred Compensation Plans

Schools that may offer this training.  University of South Alabama University of South Alabama  Alabama State University Alabama State University  Amridge University Amridge University  Gadsden State Community College Gadsden State Community College  Jefferson State Community College Jefferson State Community College  Wallace Community College-Selma Wallace Community College-Selma

HOW TO APPLY in Alabama  Complete an Application for Examination Form available at or at any Alabama Career Center Office.  Apply by mail or by fax. Applications will be accepted until further notice.