Skill path
How to become a Security Guard
How to become a Security Guard: skill roadmap with 4 core skills, no degree required, courses and salary data. Updated weekly.
Education & experience requirements
- Education
- These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
- Experience
- Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed.
- On-the-job training
- Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Foundations
Skills assumed by employers — the base to build on
- Security proceduresFoundation
Protocols to protect people and property are essential for security guards. They ensure safety. Learn by training and certification.
- Surveillance techniquesFoundation
Methods to monitor areas for threats help prevent incidents. Security guards use them. Learn through field training and observation.
- Emergency responseFoundation
Actions during emergencies like fires or medical issues require quick thinking. Security guards must act fast. Learn by taking first aid and emergency drills.
- Customer serviceFoundation
Core skills
The skills that define the role today
- Customer ServiceHigh demand
Assisting customers with inquiries and issues. Essential for representatives and support staff to ensure customer satisfaction and retention.
- CPRHigh demand
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation techniques. Nurses and security guards need this certification for emergency response.
- ExcelHigh demand
A spreadsheet program for data organization and analysis. Essential for accountants and many other roles to manage and interpret data.
- BilingualHigh demand
Ability to speak two languages fluently. Employers need it to communicate with diverse customers and partners. Learn through practice, immersion, and language exchange.