Guard Job Description
Security guards usually work in banks, retail establishments and at public events, protecting people from vandalism, fire and bodily injury. Security guards often communicate with police about certain crimes that have been committed. Some security guards may need to appear in court and give their testimony after a crime. The guard job description includes numerous responsibilities and duties.
Other People Are Reading
-
Significance
-
A guard's job description mainly entails patrolling the inside of stores and other public places. Guards also work in museums and art galleries, protecting valuable assets. Guards also walk the aisles of retail stores, watching for suspicious activity. These workers will often stand near the exits of public places, checking customers' bags and looking for possible shoplifters. Guards also stroll parking lots and stay on the lookout for car theft and other potential crime.
Function
-
The guard job description also includes screening patrons at large public events, checking for weapons, alcohol, drugs or even explosives. Similarly, guards also work in airports, scanning airline passengers and their baggage and ensuring the safety of all passengers. The guard job description will sometimes involve checking windows, lights, alarms and even fire extinguishers, according to Stateuniversity.com. Guards who work in a central location may be responsible for monitoring the activity on multiple closed-circuit television screens.
-
Considerations
-
Some guards work in armored trucks, picking up cash and valuables from stores, then transporting the money to commercial banks. These guards will usually wear protective vests and carry weapons because of the dangerous nature of the work. Guards also assist with parking traffic at large sporting events, or help customers find their seats, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Similarly, guards at apartment complexes usually work from guardhouses, admitting residences and scrutinizing visitors.
Requirements
-
Since guards work on their feet a lot, they must be in good physical shape to effectively do their job. They must also be observant, have common sense and use good judgment. Guards who have frequent interaction with people should also have good communication skills.
Salary and Job Outlook
-
As of May 2010, the average annual salary of all types of guards is $23,460, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Guards who work in medical centers or hospitals usually make an average of $29,020. Employment for guards is expected to increase by 14 percent between 2008 and 2010, which outpaces job growth for most other types of jobs.
-
References
- Photo Credit security image by robert mobley from Fotolia.com
