Security Guard Job Description Templates 2025

Use this 2025 guide to draft a clear, compliant security guard job description in minutes.

You’ll get:

• Copy‑and‑paste templates
• A canonical duties list
• Licensing and background‑check notes
• Decision guides for armed vs unarmed and in‑house vs contract

Overview: What a Security Guard Does

In the next 60 seconds, you’ll get a crisp definition you can reuse in your posting. A security guard (also called a security officer) protects people, property, and information through visible presence, access control, patrols, monitoring, and incident response. They deter theft and disorder, enforce site rules, triage emergencies, and document what occurs for legal and operational follow‑up.

Typical daily activities include:

• Checking badges
• Screening visitors
• Monitoring cameras
• Responding to alarms
• Writing reports
• Coordinating with law enforcement or EMS as needed

In higher‑risk settings, armed guards add a trained, lawful use‑of‑force capability under a strict policy. Takeaway: match duties and required certifications to your risk profile and hours of operation.

Security Guard vs Security Officer: Is There a Difference?

In the next 30 seconds, you’ll pick the right title for search and role clarity. In most jurisdictions and job boards, “security guard” and “security officer” are used interchangeably, though some employers use “officer” for customer‑facing or lead roles and “guard” for entry‑level positions.

If you need concierge/front‑desk coverage, “Front Desk Security Officer” or “Access Control Officer” can improve candidate match. If the role includes supervisory tasks, consider “Lead Security Officer” or “Site Supervisor.” Bottom line: pick the title candidates will search for and that aligns with your duties and licensing.

How to Write a Security Guard Job Description (Step-by-Step)

Use this structure to write a complete, scannable posting in 10–15 minutes. Note: licensing, background checks, and pay transparency rules vary by state or country. Link to your regulator and consult counsel as needed.

Choose the right title and scope (Armed, Unarmed, Night Shift, Front Desk)

Start with the most accurate, searchable title. Be explicit about scope (armed/unarmed), shift (day, swing, night), and setting (retail, hospital, warehouse, corporate lobby, event).

• Examples:
• Unarmed Security Guard (Retail, Day Shift)
• Armed Security Officer (Bank Branch)
• Night Shift Warehouse Security Guard
• Front Desk Security Officer (Corporate Lobby)
• Event Security Guard (Weekends/Seasonal)

Clear titles reduce mismatches and help you attract qualified applicants faster.

Summarize the mission and impact in 2–3 lines

Open with why the role exists. State the site type, purpose, and outcomes you expect.

• Example: “As a Security Guard at [Company], you’ll protect employees, visitors, and property through professional presence, access control, and proactive patrols. You’ll respond to incidents and document events to support safety, compliance, and business continuity.”

A focused summary filters out poor fits and sets the tone for accountability.

List core duties and responsibilities

Draft the duties list next. Keep bullets short, parallel, and action‑led to improve readability and snippet potential.

• Core duties typically include:
• Control access: check badges/IDs, sign‑in/out, issue visitor passes
• Patrol interior/exterior per post orders; monitor doors, docks, and perimeters
• Observe and report: complete accurate, timely incident and daily activity reports
• Monitor alarms, CCTV/VMS, and radio traffic; escalate as needed
• Respond to incidents, medicals, and hazards; coordinate with EMS/law enforcement
• Deter theft, vandalism, and unsafe behavior through visible presence
• Enforce site rules, parking, and safety policies with de‑escalation techniques
• Support evacuations, drills, and emergency procedures
• Maintain professional appearance, equipment, and communication standards

Tailor 2–3 bullets to the setting (e.g., loss prevention in retail, patient/visitor escort in hospitals). This keeps the list relevant and aligned with your site risks.

Define requirements, certifications, and soft skills

State the must‑haves (licenses, age, background screening) and list transferable skills. Separate “required” and “preferred” to widen the talent pool while protecting standards.

• Typical requirements:
• Minimum age per law (often 18; 21 for armed roles) and legal right to work
• State security guard license/registration (guard card) as applicable
• For armed roles: valid firearms permit per state law and employer policy
• CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain within 30–60 days
• Clear, professional communication; report writing; situational awareness
• Ability to stand/walk for extended periods and lift up to [X] lbs with/without accommodation
• Basic tech proficiency (VMS, access control, incident apps, radios)

Marking the essentials helps candidates self‑screen and reduces time‑to‑hire.

Working conditions, schedules, and physical demands

Set expectations to reduce turnover and support ADA‑aligned clarity. Avoid discouraging language; focus on essential functions and accommodations.

• Mention:
• Shifts (day/swing/night), weekends/holidays/OT, on‑call as applicable
• Indoor/outdoor exposure, weather, stairs, and foot patrol distances
• PPE provided (e.g., reflective vest, body‑worn radio/camera per policy)
• Noise levels, lighting, and public interaction types
• Reasonable accommodation statement for qualified individuals with disabilities

This helps candidates assess fit and prepares them for the environment.

Compensation and benefits (transparency best practices)

Pay transparency boosts applicant quality and compliance in many states. Provide a realistic range and differentials.

• Example: “$18.50–$21.00/hour base; +$1.50/hour night differential; +$2.00/hour armed differential; benefits include medical, PTO, and 401(k).”
• Note: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2023), median pay for security guards was roughly $18–$19/hour nationwide, varying by state/metro.

Include bonuses (sign‑on, retention), union status, and site‑specific premiums if applicable. Align ranges with internal bands and local benchmarks.

Reporting structure and KPIs

Clarify who the role reports to and how success is measured. Add a few quantitative metrics to drive accountability.

• Common reporting lines:
• Site Supervisor
• Security Manager
• Facilities Manager
• Contracted Account Manager
• KPI starter set:
• Patrol completion rate and on‑time start/relief
• Incident response and closure times
• Access violations prevented/resolved
• Report accuracy/timeliness and post‑order adherence
• Customer/tenant satisfaction scores

Define how KPIs are tracked (daily activity reports, incident software, supervisor audits). This keeps expectations visible from day one.

Add EEO and compliance notes (FCRA, ADA) to your posting

Finish with inclusive language and lawful screening language. This builds trust and reduces risk.

• EEO sample: “[Company] is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. We provide reasonable accommodations under the ADA.”
• Background check sample (FCRA‑aware; US): “Offers of employment may be contingent on a background check permissible under applicable law. If a consumer report is used, we will obtain your written authorization and provide required disclosures and notices under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.”
• Drug screening: “Role may require drug screening consistent with state and local laws and client requirements.”

When in doubt, have counsel review your standard language—especially for multi‑state hiring. Keep templates updated as laws change.

Copy-and-Paste Security Guard Job Description Templates

Grab the template that matches your setting, then customize duties, licensing, and pay. Confirm state licensing and firearms rules before posting.

General Unarmed Security Guard — Template

Copy this baseline template for most low‑to‑moderate risk sites, then tailor 2–3 duties to your environment.

Job Title: Unarmed Security Guard

Location: [City, Site Type] | Schedule: [Days/Hours]

Summary: You will protect employees, visitors, and property through professional presence, access control, patrols, and incident reporting. You’ll monitor alarms/CCTV, respond to events, and support a safe, welcoming environment.

Responsibilities:

• Control access, verify IDs, and issue visitor badges
• Conduct interior/exterior patrols per post orders
• Monitor cameras, alarms, and radio traffic; escalate as needed
• Observe and report with accurate incident and daily activity reports
• Deter theft, vandalism, and unsafe behavior
• Enforce site rules and parking policies using de‑escalation
• Support drills, evacuations, and emergency procedures

Requirements:

• Minimum age [18+] and eligible to work; HS diploma/GED
• State guard license/registration if required
• CPR/First Aid (or obtain within 30–60 days)
• Strong communication and report‑writing skills
• Ability to stand/walk for extended periods; lift [X] lbs with/without accommodation
• Basic proficiency with access control, VMS, and radios

Working Conditions:

• [Indoor/outdoor] environment; foot patrols; weather exposure as applicable
• Uniform/PPE provided; radio/body‑worn camera per policy
• Nights/weekends/holidays as needed

Compensation & Benefits:

• Pay range: [$X–$Y/hour]; benefits: [list]; shift differential if applicable

Reporting & KPIs:

• Reports to: [Site Supervisor/Security Manager]
• KPIs: patrol completion, incident response time, report accuracy, post‑order compliance

EEO & Compliance:

• “[Company] is an Equal Opportunity Employer … reasonable accommodations available.”
• “Employment may be contingent upon a lawful background check per FCRA and local law.”

Armed Security Guard — Template

Use this for higher‑risk or high‑value sites; verify firearms permits, qualifications, and recurrent training requirements.

Job Title: Armed Security Officer

Location: [City, Site Type] | Schedule: [Days/Hours]

Summary: You will provide professional protection for high‑value assets and higher‑risk sites. You’ll perform access control, patrols, and incident response with lawful, policy‑driven use‑of‑force as a last resort.

Responsibilities:

• Control access and safeguard restricted/high‑value areas
• Patrol perimeters, docks, and high‑risk zones
• Monitor VMS/alarms; respond to threats and incidents
• Conduct thorough incident documentation and evidence protection
• Liaise with law enforcement; preserve chain of custody
• Enforce policies with de‑escalation and tactical communication
• Maintain weapons proficiency and equipment readiness

Requirements:

• Minimum age [21+] and state security guard license
• State firearms permit (and any endorsements) per law; clean MVR if driving
• Documented firearms qualification and recurrent training
• Use‑of‑force, de‑escalation, and report‑writing proficiency
• CPR/First Aid; preferred: ASIS/PSP/CPP coursework or equivalent
• Physically fit to stand/walk, respond rapidly, and wear PPE

Working Conditions:

• Higher‑risk environments; potential for critical incidents
• Strict adherence to use‑of‑force policy and post orders
• PPE/body‑worn camera per policy; regular qualifications

Compensation & Benefits:

• Pay range: [$X–$Y/hour] + armed differential; [benefits/bonuses]
• Insurance and training requirements met by employer; additional screening may apply

Reporting & KPIs:

• Reports to: [Security Manager/Account Manager]
• KPIs: response time, post‑order compliance, incident documentation quality

EEO & Compliance:

• Include EEO statement, ADA accommodation language, and FCRA‑compliant background check notice.

Retail Store Security Guard — Template

Deploy this for retail settings with shrink risk; align interventions with store policy and local laws.

Job Title: Retail Security Guard (Unarmed)

Location: [Store/Center] | Schedule: [Days/Hours]

Summary: You will deter theft and support a safe, customer‑friendly shopping experience. You’ll monitor entrances/exits, observe for ORC/shoplifting, and partner with store leadership.

Responsibilities:

• Greet customers; maintain visible presence at entry/exit
• Observe, detect, and report suspected theft or ORC activity
• Monitor CCTV, fitting rooms, and high‑shrink areas
• Conduct recovery per policy; never exceed authorized intervention
• Support incident response, evacuations, and first aid as needed
• Write clear incident and trespass reports; testify if required
• Partner with store LP/AP and local police within policy

Requirements:

• Retail LP/AP experience preferred; unarmed guard license if required
• Strong observation, de‑escalation, and customer service skills
• CPR/First Aid; incident reporting proficiency
• Ability to stand for long periods and patrol salesfloor/parking

Include EEO, background check (FCRA), and pay range with any weekend premiums.

Hospital Security Guard — Template

Use this for healthcare environments; add IAHSS, CPI/NVCI, and HIPAA‑aware documentation notes as applicable.

Job Title: Hospital Security Officer

Location: [Hospital/Clinic] | Schedule: [Days/Hours]

Summary: You will maintain a safe, therapeutic healthcare environment. You’ll manage access to clinical areas, assist with patient/visitor interactions, and de‑escalate behavioral incidents with compassion.

Responsibilities:

• Control access to ED, inpatient units, and restricted areas
• Patrol clinical and public spaces; support staff safety calls
• De‑escalate disturbances; assist with patient watch/escorts per policy
• Respond to codes (e.g., gray/silver/blue) and assist with wayfinding
• Protect PHI and follow HIPAA‑aware practices when documenting
• Coordinate with nursing, facilities, and local law enforcement
• Document incidents accurately; maintain chain of custody as needed

Requirements:

• Healthcare security experience preferred; IAHSS training a plus
• De‑escalation and conflict management skills; trauma‑informed approach
• CPR/BLS; CPI/NVCI or similar preferred
• Hospital vaccination or health screenings as required by policy
• State guard license; firearms only if policy and law allow

Include EEO, ADA accommodation, FCRA language, shift differentials, and union status if applicable.

Warehouse/Night Shift Security Guard — Template

Choose this for distribution centers or overnight coverage; emphasize reliability and solo‑work readiness.

Job Title: Night Shift Warehouse Security Guard

Location: [Distribution Center] | Schedule: [Nights/Weekends]

Summary: You will secure perimeter gates, docks, and yards during off‑hours. You’ll complete patrol routes, manage visitor/truck access, and respond to alarms.

Responsibilities:

• Control truck/visitor access; verify manifests and IDs
• Conduct timed patrols of aisles, docks, yards, and roof access points
• Monitor VMS/alarms; investigate door/zone alerts promptly
• Inspect locks, seals, and lighting; log maintenance issues
• Document incidents and daily activity; hand off to day leadership
• Enforce parking/speed policies and PPE compliance
• Coordinate with on‑call managers and first responders

Requirements:

• Night shift reliability; ability to work with minimal supervision
• State guard license; CPR/First Aid within 30–60 days
• Radio etiquette; basic incident and maintenance reporting
• Ability to walk long routes and work outdoors as needed

Include EEO/FCRA language and pay with night differential.

Corporate Front Desk/Concierge Security Officer — Template

Use this for professional lobbies; highlight customer service and visitor management skills.

Job Title: Front Desk Security Officer (Corporate Lobby)

Location: [Office Tower] | Schedule: [Days/Swing]

Summary: You will combine concierge‑level service with access control. You’ll welcome guests, manage visitor systems, and maintain a calm, professional lobby.

Responsibilities:

• Greet and badge visitors; manage visitor management software
• Verify deliveries and vendor access; issue temporary credentials
• Monitor lobby cameras and access points; maintain logs
• Enforce building policies with diplomacy and de‑escalation
• Coordinate with property management and tenant contacts
• Handle lost‑and‑found, incident reports, and service tickets
• Support emergency communications and evacuations

Requirements:

• Customer service/front‑desk experience; professional communication
• Familiarity with access control and VMS systems
• State guard license if required; CPR/First Aid
• Polished appearance; reliability and discretion

Include EEO, ADA, FCRA notice, and transparent pay/benefits.

Standard Duties and Responsibilities (List for Job Ads)

In the next minute, grab this canonical duties list to paste into most security officer job descriptions. Tailor 2–3 bullets to your site.

• Control access: verify IDs, badges, and visitor credentials
• Conduct patrols of buildings, grounds, docks, and perimeters
• Monitor CCTV/VMS, alarms, and radios; escalate as needed
• Respond to incidents, hazards, and medicals; coordinate with EMS/PD
• Observe and report: complete accurate incident and daily activity reports
• Deter theft, vandalism, and unsafe behavior through visible presence
• Enforce site rules and safety policies using de‑escalation techniques
• Support drills, evacuations, and emergency procedures
• Maintain professional appearance, equipment, and post‑order compliance

Requirements and Certifications

Use this section to finalize legal and training language. Licensing, training hours, and renewals vary by state—link to your state regulator.

Licensing overview (e.g., guard card; firearms permit; renewals)

Most U.S. states require unarmed guards to register and complete initial training (e.g., 8–40 hours) plus ongoing renewal training. Armed roles require additional firearms permits, qualifications, and policy training.

• Examples of regulators:
• California BSIS (guard card; exposed firearm permit; renewals)
• New York DCJS (security guard registration; annual in‑service)
• Texas DPS/PSB (Level II–IV; armed/commissioned requirements)
• Action: State the required license at hire and the renewal cadence your company supports.

CPR/First Aid and de-escalation training

First response saves time and reduces severity. Require or sponsor CPR/First Aid within the first 30–60 days.

Add de‑escalation or crisis intervention (e.g., CPI/NVCI) in healthcare, retail, or public‑facing roles. For armed roles, include recurrent firearms qualification and use‑of‑force refreshers aligned with policy and law.

Tip: note if the employer pays for certifications and time.

Background checks, drug screening, and compliance notes

Keep background language lawful and clear. In the U.S., the FCRA governs third‑party consumer reports.

• Sample: “Offer may be contingent on a background check permissible under applicable law. If a consumer report is used, we will obtain your written authorization and provide all required disclosures, pre‑adverse/adverse action notices, and a copy of the report if applicable.”
• Add notes on drug screening per local law and client requirements.
• Include a disability accommodation statement and an EEO statement in every ad.

Armed vs Unarmed: A Simple Decision Guide

Choose armed vs unarmed based on risk, not preference. Consider threats, police response times, asset value, and insurance/oversight capacity.

Risk-based deployment factors

• History of incidents, threats, or violence at the site
• High‑value assets, cash handling, pharmaceuticals, or sensitive data
• Public density (events, retail, hospitals) and crowd volatility
• Police/EMS response times and site size/layout
• Visibility needs vs covert deterrence
• Client/tenant expectations and contractual obligations

Document your rationale and reflect it in the JD and post orders. Revisit the assessment quarterly or after major incidents.

Cost, training, and insurance implications

Armed programs cost more but may be necessary for specific risks.

• Armed adds:
• Higher wages, firearms qualifications, and recurrent training
• Increased insurance premiums and stricter oversight/audits
• Detailed use‑of‑force policy, weapon retention, and incident protocols
• Unarmed fits:
• Most concierge, corporate, warehouse, and general retail sites
• Deterrence, observation/reporting, and rapid escalation to police

When in doubt, start unarmed with strong tech and procedures, then reassess after 90 days. Align your decision with insurer requirements and client expectations.

Tools and Technology in Modern Security Roles

Set realistic tool proficiency in your posting. Mention categories, not brands, unless your stack is fixed and common.

Access control and video management systems (VMS)

• List expectations like “experience with electronic access control (badging, door schedules) and VMS for live monitoring and clip export.”
• Add “familiarity with visitor management software” for front‑desk roles.
• Note if training is provided during onboarding.

Incident reporting apps, radios, and body-worn cameras

• State “proficient with mobile incident reporting apps, two‑way radios, and body‑worn cameras per policy.”
• Specify report quality standards (clear, complete, timely) and chain‑of‑custody basics for evidence.
• Clarify if body‑cam activation and retention rules apply.

Salary, Shifts, and Staffing Models

Use transparent ranges and shift differentials to attract qualified candidates and meet local laws. Reference credible data and your internal benchmarks.

Pay ranges and differentials (night, weekend, armed)

Post a realistic base range plus differentials and premiums.

• Example: “$18.50–$21.00/hour base; +$1.50/hour night; +$2.00/hour armed; weekend premium as posted.”
• Benchmark: BLS (May 2023) shows national median around $18–$19/hour for security guards; metros and high‑risk sites pay more.

Include benefits, union status, sign‑on/retention bonuses, and overtime expectations. Keep ranges consistent across postings.

In-house vs contract security (pros and cons)

Choose the model that fits your control needs and budget.

• In‑house pros: tighter culture fit, direct oversight, stable teams; cons: HR/benefits burden, 24/7 coverage complexity.
• Contract pros: flexible staffing, licensing/compliance handled, rapid scaling; cons: variable quality, less direct control, margin costs.
• JD tip: If contracting, clarify reporting to the on‑site client representative and post‑order adherence. If in‑house, define escalation pathways clearly.

Post Orders vs Job Description: What’s the Difference?

In the next 30 seconds, you’ll separate strategic expectations from daily procedures. Avoid confusion by separating strategic expectations (JD) from tactical instructions (post orders).

The job description defines scope, qualifications, duties, schedule, and KPIs. Post orders are site‑specific, step‑by‑step procedures: patrol routes, door schedules, alarm codes, emergency contacts, and escalation trees.

You need both: the JD for hiring and accountability, post orders for day‑to‑day execution and training.

FAQs

What makes a good Security Guard?

Situational awareness, calm communication, and consistent report quality. Add de‑escalation skills, reliability, and professionalism—then train site specifics during onboarding.

Who does a Security Guard report to?

Typically a Site Supervisor, Security Manager, Facilities Manager, or a contracted Account Manager. State the title in your JD to prevent ambiguity.

What are the daily duties of a Security Guard?

Access control, patrols, monitoring cameras/alarms, responding to incidents, writing reports, enforcing policies, and assisting employees/visitors. Duties vary by setting.

Should we list salary ranges in the job ad?

Yes—pay transparency boosts applicant quality and may be legally required in some jurisdictions. Include base range, shift/armed differentials, and benefits.

Pre-Posting Checklist

Use this quick review to post with confidence. Confirm any jurisdiction‑specific requirements with your regulator or counsel.

• Title matches scope and setting (armed/unarmed, shift, site type)
• 2–3 line summary states mission and impact
• Duties list is concise and tailored to your environment
• Requirements: licensing, CPR/First Aid, soft skills, physical demands
• Working conditions and ADA accommodation statement included
• Pay range and differentials listed; benefits summarized
• Reporting line and 3–5 KPIs defined
• EEO statement and FCRA‑compliant background check language added
• State licensing and firearms permit references verified/linked
• Post orders drafted or updated to align with the JD

Expert note: Cite current benchmarks and standards where helpful (e.g., BLS wage data; ASIS body of knowledge; your state licensing board). Refresh your security guard job description annually to reflect new tools, training, or regulations.