High Demand, Easy Entry, Great Benefits: A Complete Guide to U.S. Security Careers
Compensation and Working Conditions
Security jobs in the U.S. offer competitive compensation, with an average annual salary ranging from $46,876 to $91,592. Many top transportation and corporate companies provide comprehensive benefits, including:
- Paid vacation
- On-the-job training
- 401(k) retirement plans
- Health, vision, and dental insurance
- Life insurance
- Promotion opportunities
- Flexible scheduling
Why Choose a Security Career
High Demand and Job Stability
Security personnel are in consistent demand across various sectors, including retail, healthcare, education, government, and large-scale events.
Low Barrier to Entry and Quick Onboarding
Only a high school diploma or equivalent and a background check are generally required. No prior experience is necessary, and training can be completed in just a few days to weeks.
Flexible Schedules and Autonomy
Various shifts (day, night, weekends, holidays) are available, offering work-life balance. Many positions are solo, allowing for autonomy and even completing personal tasks during shifts.
Skill Development and Career Growth
Training includes first aid, conflict resolution, emergency response, and surveillance system operation. These skills can transfer to law enforcement, management, or advisory roles in areas like cybersecurity and risk assessment.
Industry Segments
The U.S. security industry encompasses a wide range of roles, categorized by job function, responsibility, and required skill level:
- Unarmed Security Guards – Low entry threshold, high availability
- Armed Security Guards – Higher risk and pay
- Corporate/Office/Hotel Security – Stable income and full benefits
- Event/Hospital Security – Fast-paced and flexible hours
- Executive Protection/Cybersecurity – High-paying technical or specialized roles
Excellent Employer with Open Positions
Marriott Hotels – Security Officer
As a global leader in hospitality, Marriott offers job stability and attractive benefits:
- Pay: $26–$31/hour
- Schedule: Shift-based, higher pay for night shifts
- Benefits: Healthcare, FSA, 401(k), paid leave, life & disability insurance, and wellness benefits
Requirements:
- Education: High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.
- Related Work Experience: No related work experience.
- Supervisory Experience: No supervisory experience.
- License or Certification: None
DPI Security – Unarmed Guard
All DPI guards complete in-house training and receive state-issued licenses from the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST).
- Pay: $15–$23/hour
- Low Entry Barrier: Training and promotion opportunities provided
- Benefits: Weekly pay, direct deposit, ACA-compliant health options, and personal leave
Requirements:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- No prior experience needed
- Pass a 10-year background check and drug test
- Provide proof of legal work eligibility in the U.S.
Application Process
1. Search & Apply
Use platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, company websites, or major security firms (e.g., Allied Universal, Securitas). For federal/government positions, use [USAJOBS].
2. Online Application & Licensing
Submit resume, ID, and any relevant certifications (e.g., Guard Card). Some employers reimburse training costs or offer certification training post-hire.
3. Background Check, Fingerprinting & Drug Test
All states require clean criminal records. Some states require fingerprinting via FBI/DOJ systems like Live Scan.
4. Required Training & Licensing
Most states mandate 8–40 hours of basic and legal training.
California Example:
- 8 hrs "Power to Arrest" course
- 32 hrs of continued training
- Optional weapons/pepper spray/baton certification
Training and testing must be completed before or during probation to obtain a Guard Card.
5. Interview (Phone or In-Person)
Behavioral questions about conflict resolution and emergency handling are common. Unlicensed applicants may be enrolled in training post-offer.
6. Conditional Offer & Onboarding
Once background checks, licensing, and training are complete, a formal job offer is issued. Onboarding may include probationary training (e.g., 90 days).
Qualification Checklist
- Age Requirement: 18+ (21+ for armed roles)
- Education: High school diploma or GED
- Legal Status: Must have authorization to work in the U.S.
- Experience requirements: Most companies do not require experience and will provide on-the-job training. Some professional positions or top employers may have certification and experience requirements.
Success Story: From Newcomer to Security Supervisor
Background: Carlos, an immigrant from El Salvador, arrived in Los Angeles with limited English and no security experience.
Challenge: He needed stable income to support his family in a new country.
Journey: Carlos applied to DPI Security as an unarmed guard. He passed the background check and drug screening, completed 8 hours of basic training, and obtained his Guard Card.
Progress: Within 6 months, he was promoted to shift leader due to his strong work ethic. He later earned certifications in conflict resolution and emergency response and became a supervisor.
Outcome: Carlos now earns $27/hour, receives full benefits, and supervises a 12-member team. He is working toward a career as a security consultant.