How to become a Security Officer
Most security officer positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. Employers will usually conduct identity and background checks on applicants as well. College degrees are not usually a requirement for security officer roles, but employers may prefer applicants with a criminal justice degree or experience. Most states require security officers to be licensed. The process involves a set number of hours spent training with an exam to complete certification.
How to become: Security Guard · Security Specialist · Security Supervisor · Patrol Officer · Armed Security Officer
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What skills help Security Officers find jobs?
- Analysis skills
- Bilingual
- CCTV
- Communication skills
- Computer literacy
- Computer skills
- Customer service
- DoD experience
- Driving
- Encryption
- English
- First aid
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Career progression for Security Officer
Education levels for Security Officers
| required level of education | percent of job openings |
|---|---|
| High school diploma or GED | 71.8% |
| Associate's degree | 13.8% |
| Bachelor's degree | 11.9% |
| Master's degree | 2.0% |
| Middle school education | 0.3% |
| Doctoral degree | 0.2% |
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Expected salary by experience
| Years of experience | Annual salary in USD |
|---|---|
| 0 - 4 | $23,800 |
| 4 - 8 | $25,900 |
| 8 - 12 | $27,200 |
| 12 - 16 | $27,800 |
| 16 - 20 | $28,300 |
| 20 - 24 | $28,300 |
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Common qualifications for Security Officers
- AED Certification
- AHA Certification
- Act 235
- Armed Security License
- BLS Certification
- Baton Permit
- CCNA Security
- CCSP
- CDL A
- CEH
- CISM
- CISSP
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