How to Become a Security Officer

Although you may not see security officers except at night, most businesses and companies employ at least one to make sure everything remains safe while no one is there. Since this job often requires no formal training, it can be confusing for those interested in the field to know how to become a security officer.

Instructions

1. Work out regularly and be in good shape. A security officer must be able to quickly respond to any emergency or incident. Being out of shape can severely limit your response time, which is why many businesses have physical requirements for their security officers. By working out and eating healthy, you ensure that you have the physical capabilities and requirements to do the job, and you won't get passed over for the job simply because you're overweight or not in good-enough shape.

2. Seek out law enforcement training. Many companies prefer to hire security guards that have some type of law enforcement training or background. Most states have law enforcement training opportunities for individuals interested in becoming reserve or volunteer police officers. While this doesn't provide quite all the training an average police officer gets, it does give you the information and training you need to become a security officer.

3. Pass a background check. The company or business hiring you to work as a security officer will run a background check on you. This ensures that you have no criminal history that would present a conflict with you having a security job. If you do have a criminal history that you think may be of concern to the company, it is best to disclose this to them in advance of them running your background check, so they are not surprised when they receive the results.

4. Provide a good work history. When applying for any job, you want to provide a good work history, but this is even more important for security officers. Being able to show that you have commitment to an organization and will show up on time are important factors, since you would be the person responsible for working when no one else is.

Tips & Warnings

• Most security officers work in the evenings or at night, so it is important that you are comfortable with working second or third shift. Not all companies require law enforcement training for their security officers, but it can set you apart from other candidates. If you are passed over for a security job, don't be afraid to ask why. They may have tips or recommendations that can help you when applying for future security jobs.

• Having a criminal history won't necessarily disqualify you from a security officer position as long as it isn't a serious offense and you disclose it up front.

Resources

• American Society of Industrial Security (ASIS)