Security Officer Jobs

The security officer has the job of protecting items, people or places from threats. The security officer usually works for a private security agency and is known for centuries as the watchman. Most of the times, they are wearing uniforms. Many young men are searching for this occupation in order to get hired later at a law enforcement agency. They can not arrest people, but they can help the police officers do this.

There are different types of security personnel and agency. A few of them have been listed below.

In house or proprietary security officers work mostly in casinos, malls, etc and protect the items inside it from theft
Contract based security officer works for a security company which is in charge of protecting more locations
Public security or private police officers or security police work for the security of the general public living in the society
Private patrol officers work as surveillance officers keeping a watch over the client's premises
Parapolice works for the aggressive agencies which constantly get involved with investigating the crimes and arresting suspects

There are many cases in which the security officers must carry a fire arm. In this situation, the person needs a permit, and the security agency needs a license in order to function legally, in most countries. Canada for instance limits the use of any weapon as much as possible, especially the use of fire guns.

It goes without saying that all of the security officers must have a clear criminal record, even more so those wanting to work with the law enforcement agencies. Another must is that of being at least 18 years of age, or to be on the safe side, the minimum legal age, and should be in a good psychical shape (condition).

As an interesting fact, in the United States, the security officers have outnumbered the police officers ever since the 1980's. After the event of 9/11, the private security officers are the first one to respond in case of emergency. One needs a license to work as a private security officer and of course, one has to be a citizen. The license includes the background check and special training in most cases. Usually, they can not arrest anyone, unless the action of the suspect requires it. To be noted that the uniform worn by the security officers and that worn by the police officers is many times very similar, therefore, there confusion among people. In many places, these security officers are given a little bit of more freedom in their actions, in order to help the safety of the population, and for a better service to the community.

Other type of security jobs involve the office buildings in big cities, who are secured by these security officers, paid and trained to check everyone going inside the building, and to make sure they have the authorization to go where they want to go.

These were a few types of security officer jobs and their responsibilities. You can choose the one that interests you the most.