Security Jobs

August 29, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Security jobs have always been in demand but since 09/11, this type of career took a drastic turn whereby the need for highly trained, qualified, and dedicated personnel is mandatory in protecting the United States but also other countries. Sadly, terrorist attacks have become commonplace around the world with business offices, homes, government agencies, hotels, landmarks, hotels, airports, train stations, and other public places being targeted. As a result, thousands upon thousands of people have lost their lives while even more have been seriously injured.

The first line of defense is with security jobs. People who work in this sector take on the responsibility to perform duties of providing protection at any cost. Sadly, some types of security jobs have been viewed as meaningless or worthless with the security guard being a prime example but today, this position among many others are considered to be of tremendous value thanks to better training, public education, and ongoing threats.

Security Guards

Since we used security guards as an earlier example, we will begin with this particular job. For starters, while there are always openings to work as a security guard, positions of higher responsibility and income are actually competitive. However, no matter the level, this type of job offers a number of benefits such as flexible hours, part and full-time hours, and a variety of sectors and industries to work in.

Security guards inspect and patrol property, deter criminal activity, and guard against things such as vandalism, fire, and theft. Guards with appropriate training and certification would also detain and arrest criminals. This career has experienced a 17% growth and is expected to continue being in high demand. No formal training is required for standard security guards although on-the-job training would be provided. However, an armed security guard would need weapons retention and current law training. Average annual income is between $18,000 and $28,000.

Gaming Surveillance Officer

Many people are surprised to learn a gaming surveillance officer falls under the security job umbrella. These individuals work primarily for casinos and other gambling establishments, performing investigation, monitoring players and employees with high-profile security systems, escorting disorderly people from the building, deterring various types of crime, and arresting criminals. Even with a struggling economy, this security job is expected to see a 35% increase in need by 2016.

Security jobs such as this have flexible hours, part and full-time positions, and great advancement potential. Most training is provided on the job although an armed gaming surveillance officer would need to complete all required weapons training and understand city and state laws. For income, a person could earn up to $40,000 a year.

 

Border Patrol Agent

A very critical type of security job has to do with border patrol. For this, several different opportunities exist with all focusing on keeping country borders safe. The professional that most people know of is the border patrol agent. In this role, the agent would take measures to keep illegal aliens, drugs, and weapons from entering the country. This is done with foot, horse, vehicle, ATV, boat, and air patrol. In addition, border patrol agents use various pieces of high-tech equipment such as pressure sensors, night goggles, infrared lights, and more.

Because borders must be protected and activity has increased dramatically, this particular type of security job needs skilled and dedicated people. With no letup in sight as far as needed protection, working as a border patrol agent offers excellent job stability. Although challenging, people find this to be a very rewarding career as well. On average, a border patrol agent earns between $45,000 and $90,000 a year depending on responsibilities, geographic location, and so on.

Customs Enforcement Agent

Security jobs such as this involve the enforcement of customs laws specific to packages coming into the country, as well as shipping. For this, special x-ray equipment is used whereby drugs, weapons, and other illegal contraband would be detected. This agent might also use K-9 support for sniffing out drugs, bombs, and other illegal and dangerous items.

Along with job responsibilities mentioned, security jobs such as this would look for risk of terrorist attacks and human trafficking as well. The right candidate would be a US citizen, 40 years of age or under, possess a valid driver’s license, have no criminal record, and be bilingual in English and Spanish. Additionally, this person would need a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice at minimum and pass all required tests. Annual income as a customs enforcement agent is between $34,000 and $45,000 a year.

Maritime Security

Security jobs that involve the protection of naval vessels and naval borders from potential threat would also be an option. Unlike other security jobs, working maritime security offers a unique opportunity in that responsibilities are both intricate and complex. This particular job involves multiple protocols and demands excellent mental and physical abilities.

The right individual to work in maritime security would have knowledge of maritime law and undergo special training. Because threat has increased in recent years, working maritime security offers great job security. Maritime security is provided by various military branches, as well as private sectors but in all cases, vessel security, facility security, waterway security, and port security are primary focuses.

Airport Security Jobs

Another option for security jobs has to do with protecting the airport to include planes, cargo, passengers, and employees. As with most security jobs, different tiers and responsibilities exist. However, for the standard airport security officer, the goal would be to prevent unauthorized access to all restricted areas, check personnel vehicles, enforce airfield driver and safety regulations, monitor passenger and employee behavior, enforce all airport security regulations, and more.

To work as an airport security officer excellent communication skills would be required along with being a team player. The perfect candidate would have prior experience in law enforcement, airport security, or other security jobs, and complete necessary education specific to security methods and procedures for a particular airport. The average salary for this position is currently $45,000 a year.

There are many other critical airport security jobs such as the TSA operator who checks loading passengers for drugs, weapons, bombs, and other illegal and restricted items using the latest and most advanced x-ray equipment. Annual salary for this position is around $28,000. Some of the other security jobs specific to the airport include the following:

  • Transportation Security Officer – $30,000
  • Firefighter – $34,000
  • Security Director – $85,000

Information Technologist – $65,000

Filed Under: Security Jobs

Security Jobs on Cruise Ships

May 8, 2012 By Leave a Comment

In contrast with other industries, cruise ships are known to have higher income rates for its employees. But the turnover rate this isn’t the only reason why many security personnel choose to work on ships because cruise security jobs also present the opportunity to see and explore the world. Though working while travelling can be really addictive, these security jobs aren’t meant to be a lifelong career. Hence the cruise industry of today is in full bloom, with over a hundred thousand security jobs available.

How to Get a Security Job aboard a Cruise Ship?

So if you’re wondering how to get a job as security personnel aboard a cruise ship, you should be aware that there are certain procedures to be followed. According to the chiefs of security behind Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Holland America Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises, here are the procedures that they adhere to:

Hired Personnel

These cruise lines hire security guards, security officers, and security chiefs onboard and for their company headquarters. The required background is not bound to the security industry alone, because if you served at the military, law enforcement, or government in your native country, then you’re good to go. As an applicant, you will be screened by the cruise line’s assigned employment agency. However, if you’re an aspiring candidate for the top-tier security positions, then expect to be interviewed by the security chiefs or directors of these cruise lines. You will also be asked to explain how you would handle theoretical situations, and be required to pass writing and language tests through the course of the interview.

Training Course

Cruise ship security workers are trained to handle not just crowd control, but threats of piracy and terrorism too. As part of the security staff, you will be trained to observe and report in case of a criminal occurrence, or claims that a criminal incident has occurred. While interrogation techniques and traditional law enforcement interview aren’t part of the training, you will get special FBI instructions about gathering and writing testaments from victims, suspects, and witnesses as well as how the physical evidences and crime scenes should be preserved.

Person in Charge

The captain of the ship is the main man on deck. He is responsible for the safety of everyone in the ship and the whole vessel. There are times when the captain of the ship shall share or delegate his duties with their subordinates for handling issues regarding the crews and passengers. Security guards and officers report and respond to incidents aboard the ship. But in case of a serious accident onboard, the leaders of the security team shall be leading the security staff to take care of the issue directly. On the other hand, the security leaders on the shoreside shall be watchful of the relayed reports and notify the authorities about pertinent incidents. If you’re aiming to be one of these security personnel leaders, then you will need to have an extensive skill and experience in investigations. Having a high, authoritative position in the military or law enforcement service can earn you plus points too.

Cruise line security personnel all go through safety and security processes every year. There are also a number of other cruises which have assigned personnel for regularly checking the security workers and their practices, and carry out follow-up trainings if necessary.

Filed Under: Security, Working Abroad

Homeland Security Careers

April 7, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Homeland security careers have increased over the past few years, as the U.S. government has increasingly focused on securing the country from terrorism. These careers fall under the Homeland Security Department, which came into being after the September 11 terror attacks. Specifically, homeland security encompasses efforts to prevent terror attacks, while reducing the country’s vulnerability to such attacks. Further, homeland security seeks to minimize any damages resulting from terror attacks, and help the country to recover from the attacks. In view of this, security jobs take up the largest portion of the careers in homeland security. [Read more...]

Filed Under: Homeland Security, Security, Security Jobs

Security Guard Job Training

February 12, 2012 By Leave a Comment

There are hundreds of organizations and individuals looking to fill thousands of security jobs every day in the U.S.

Those whose expertise focuses on computers are in great demand in the area of cybersecurity jobs. In addition to civilian security positions, there are thousands of Homeland Security jobs available. [Read more...]

Filed Under: Security, Security Jobs

Security Jobs At A Glance…The Pros And Cons Of Security Jobs

February 4, 2012 By Leave a Comment

It’s a good idea to take a quick look at security jobs at a glance before you make a final decision to make security a career. There are thousands of security jobs available in several different industries. Including, Homeland Security jobs, business, residential, special events, banks, prisons and cybersecurity jobs.

It takes more than just excellent training to get hired for security and maintain employment. Before enrolling in any training course consider the following security jobs at at a glance pros and cons.

PROS

Security Jobs Can Be Very Rewarding

Every day, people go about their normal daily routines. Going to and from work, school and fun. They run errands to take care of banking and shopping. They attend sold out concerts with thousands in attendance. They go online making purchases and paying bills. They fly on airplanes, and ride on trains and buses. Hardly ever concerned about their general safety. [Read more...]

Filed Under: Security, Security Jobs

What Kind Of Homeland Security Jobs Are There?

January 26, 2012 By Leave a Comment

The continued threat of terrorist attacks on the U.S. has many Americans asking…What kind of Homeland Security jobs are there? If you’ve been wondering how you can help keep the U.S. safe and if you’re looking for a new career.

Consider applying for one of thousands of law enforcement or security support careers available in the Department of Homeland Security.

Many of these security jobs include office support positions, cybersecurity jobs and even protecting the President.

Homeland Security is broken down into several subdivisions. For our purposes, we’ll take a look at the most common areas of security.

Secret Service Agent – U.S. Secret Service

This division of Homeland Security is probably the most well known, and many think it’s the most prestigious. As a U.S. Secret Service Agent you would have the huge responsibility of guarding and protecting the President & Vice President of the United States. You would also protect their families.

As a Secret Service Agent you would also protect visiting heads of states from all over the world. But your duties extend far beyond protecting the lives of important figure heads.

You would secure the financial payment systems of the U.S. This would include investigating fraud, counterfeiting and money laundering. [Read more...]

Filed Under: Security

Does Your Business Need a Security Officer? Assess Your Needs…

October 21, 2011 By Leave a Comment

There are a lot of things that you require in order to start and run a business successfully. Most entrepreneurs focus on financing and marketing in the beginning of their operations. Security is a matter that is often left last. However, you really have to ask yourself, “Does Your Business Need a Security Officer?” Use this guide to make a general assessment of your security needs and requirements.

The type and size of your business premise, the assets in it and the number of people that work there are all important factors to take into consideration when evaluating the security needs of your company. You will most certainly need to offer security officer jobs if the premise is large enough and there is constant traffic. [Read more...]

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Unarmed Vs. Armed Security Jobs – Which Option Is Better?

October 12, 2011 By Leave a Comment

You want to work in the security industry, so you want to compare the different options that you have. You have two main ones – unarmed vs. armed security jobs. Learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of each of these types of jobs so that you can decide which one is right for you given your individual interests and career plans.

Both armed and unarmed security guards require some sort of training. However, armed security officers need more rigorous and often more extensive training. This is necessary since carrying a weapon and the option to use force inflict more responsibility on you and on your employers as well. Simply put, it is harder to become an armed guard. You will go through extensive training and undergo tests which will confirm whether you are eligible to use a weapon or not.

The nature of the work may not vary much when armed vs. unarmed security jobs are considered. You will be responsible for guarding people and objects of value. You will have to detect any criminal actions and intervene. However, you have to be extra careful when carrying a gun. Armed guards have to know when to use their weapons and in what way. They have to be able to decide on the use of force analyzing the situation in a matter of seconds. This is a great responsibility that you have to take so you have to be prepared for it. [Read more...]

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Airport Security Procedures – What Passengers Should Know

September 28, 2011 By Leave a Comment

You have to have an idea of the airport security procedures so that you can go through them easily, quickly and without much hassle. The measures taken to secure the safety of passengers at the airport and on board the plane are continuously made stricter due to the constant threat of terrorist attacks. Learn more about the procedures you have to go though for security purposes.

The first one of the airport security jobs is applied when the passenger checks in. You are required to present your passport and your ticket. You have to check in your luggage in as well. Your passport is checked by the representative of the airline to confirm that you are the holder of the ticket at this point. Usually, this screening is very basic and if no major discrepancies between the photo ID information and your face and the name on the ticket are found, you will pass it. You will be asked questions regarding the contents of your luggage as well. The idea of this procedure is to identify whether you or someone else has put anything in the bags that might put the safety of passengers at risk. [Read more...]

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