Types of Security Positions
Armored car guards protect money and valuables during transit from one location to another, and transport the money or valuables from the vehicle into the building. They usually wear bulletproof vests and carry firearms, due to the dangers involved in moving the money and valuables to and from the vehicle.
Gaming surveillance officers (also known as surveillance agents or gaming investigators) are security agents for casinos. They watch casino operations for suspicious activities, such as cheating and theft, and monitor compliance with rules, regulations, and laws. Often this is done using audio and video equipment in an observation room. They maintain and organize recordings from security cameras, which may be used as evidence for police investigations.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
Typical duties for security guards and gaming surveillance officers include the following:
- Protect and enforce laws on an employer’s property
- Monitor alarms and closed-circuit TV cameras
- Control access for employees and visitors
- Conduct security checks over a specified area
- Write reports on what they observed while on patrol
- Interview witnesses for court testimony
- Detain violators
Guards must remain alert, looking out for anything unusual. In an emergency, they are required to call for assistance from police, fire, or ambulance services. Some security guards are armed.
A security guard’s responsibilities will vary depending on the employer and the type of business being guarded. Here are some examples of the responsibilities for various types of businesses.
Retail: In retail stores, guards protect people, records, merchandise, money, and equipment. They may work with undercover store detectives to prevent theft by customers and employees, detain shoplifting suspects until the police arrive, and patrol parking lots.
Office Buildings: In office buildings, banks, hotels, and hospitals, guards maintain order and protect the organization’s customers, staff, and property.
Museums and Art Galleries: Guards in museums and art galleries protect artwork and exhibits by watching people and inspecting the contents of personal handbags that patrons carry.
Large Buildings or Complexes: In factories, government buildings, and military bases, security guards protect workers and equipment and check the credentials of people and vehicles entering and leaving the premises.
Stadiums: Guards at parks and at sports stadiums control crowds, supervise parking and seating, and direct traffic.
Bars and Nightclubs: Security guards stationed at the entrance to bars and nightclubs keep underage people from entering, collect cover charges, and maintain order among customers and guests.
Schools and Universities: Security guards working in schools and universities patrol the buildings and grounds, looking for suspicious activity, and making certain that buildings are locked as needed.