Security Guards
Guard, patrol, or monitor premises to prevent theft, violence, or infractions of rules. May operate x-ray and metal detector equipment.
SOC: 33-9032.00
Common Job Titles
- Safety and Security Officer
- Security Agent
- Security Guard
- Security Officer
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Security Guards (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
1,241,770
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $29,800. 25th percentile: U.S. $35,100. 50th percentile: U.S. $38,370. 75th percentile: U.S. $46,660. 90th percentile: U.S. $59,580. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $29,800 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $59,580 |
| Workers on average earn | $42,890 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Public Safety and Security4.7/5
- Customer and Personal Service4.5/5
- English Language4.3/5
- Computers and Electronics4.1/5
- Administration and Management4.0/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Corel WordPerfect Office Suite
- FaceTime
- IBM Lotus 1-2-3
- McAfee
- NortonLifeLock cybersecurity software
- Wireshark
Tools & Equipment
- Desktop computers
- Digital video cameras
- First aid kits
- Flashlights
- Laptop computers
- Laser facsimile machines
- Metal handcuffs
- Multi-line telephone systems