How much does a Security Guard make?
Security guards play an important role in protecting people and property. They can find work in many different places, from office buildings to shopping malls. The average yearly salary for a security guard is around $37,637. This number can change depending on many things, like experience and location.
A security guard’s salary often depends on how long they have been working in the field. Less experienced guards start at the lower end of the salary range. As they gain more experience, they can move up to higher pay. For example, those with 1 to 3 years of experience might earn around $31,855 per year. Experienced guards with 10 or more years in the job can make up to $58,200 annually. The more skills and certifications a guard has, the higher they can earn.
What are the highest paying cities for a Security Guard?
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $50,637
In San Francisco, a city known for its tech companies, one can find many opportunities to work as a protector. Companies like Google and Salesforce offer roles that provide a chance to maintain safety in bustling environments. The dynamic nature of the city brings with it a variety of challenges and experiences.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $46,621
Seattle offers a mix of corporate and residential areas where security is key. With large tech giants such as Microsoft and Amazon, a guardian can experience a fast-paced environment. The city's diverse settings demand adaptability and a strong sense of responsibility.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $46,326
Working as a protector in the nation's capital, Washington, DC, offers a unique mix of government buildings and cultural landmarks. Institutions like the FBI and the White House provide numerous opportunities for those interested in a career in security. The role here often includes high visibility and a commitment to public safety.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $46,216
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, offers many roles for those in the field of protection. The area is home to tech giants such as Intel and Cisco. Working here means dealing with a fast-paced environment and the challenge of securing high-tech assets.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $45,336
In Santa Rosa, the role of a protector involves ensuring safety in residential and commercial areas. The city is known for its wineries and natural beauty. Working here offers a peaceful setting but requires attention to detail and a strong work ethic.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $45,019
Boston, with its rich history and vibrant culture, offers many opportunities for those in the field of protection. The city's many universities and historic sites require a protector to be knowledgeable and vigilant. Working in Boston can be both challenging and rewarding.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $44,305
Vallejo provides a mix of industrial and residential settings where a protector plays a crucial role. The city's shipyards and parks require different approaches to security. Working here offers a chance to experience a variety of environments and challenges.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $43,670
In Portland, a city known for its arts and eco-friendliness, a protector can find a unique blend of urban and natural settings. The city's many festivals and parks require a protector to be adaptable and observant. Working in Portland offers a chance to be part of a close-knit community.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $43,602
Bend offers a mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. A protector here works in a setting that ranges from ski resorts to local businesses. The city's natural beauty and active lifestyle require a protector to be both vigilant and adaptable.
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Eugene, OR
Average Salary: $43,539
Eugene, home to the University of Oregon, offers many roles for those in the field of protection. The city's student population and vibrant downtown area require a protector to be knowledgeable and adaptable. Working in Eugene provides a chance to be part of a dynamic and diverse community.
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What are the best companies a Security Guard can work for?
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Akima
Average Salary: $83,623
Akima provides top-tier security services for federal agencies, offering roles in government installations and defense sites. Their locations include major cities across the United States.
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Mid-Hudson Security Consultants
Average Salary: $72,034
Mid-Hudson Security Consultants offers comprehensive security services in Hudson Valley, New York. They focus on providing personal and executive protection, as well as event security.
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DDCues LLC
Average Salary: $66,056
DDCues LLC delivers security solutions in various sectors, including commercial, industrial, and healthcare. They operate throughout multiple states, ensuring safety and protection.
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MGM Resorts International
Average Salary: $61,292
MGM Resorts International provides security for its properties in Las Vegas and other locations. They offer roles in resort security, event protection, and guest safety.
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U.S. Army
Average Salary: $60,268
The U.S. Army employs security specialists to protect military installations and personnel worldwide. Their roles vary, from base security to special operations.
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North East Medical Services
Average Salary: $60,000
North East Medical Services offers medical and security solutions in Connecticut. They provide roles in facility security, ensuring safety in healthcare settings.
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Security Services Northwest
Average Salary: $59,333
Security Services Northwest offers a variety of security roles in Washington state. They focus on protecting businesses, events, and public spaces.
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Prince William County Public Schools
Average Salary: $59,091
Prince William County Public Schools employ security guards to ensure safety at their schools. They cover a wide area in Virginia, providing protective services to students and staff.
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NYU Langone Health
Average Salary: $58,879
NYU Langone Health offers security roles in New York City. They focus on protecting the hospital and its patients, providing a secure environment for medical care.
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Diamond Touch Security
Average Salary: $58,500
Diamond Touch Security provides a range of security services in the Los Angeles area. They offer roles in event security, retail protection, and facility safety.
How to earn more as a Security Guard?
Becoming a Security Guard can lead to a rewarding career, both in terms of job satisfaction and earning potential. With the right approach, job seekers can earn more and climb up the ranks in this field. Taking proactive steps can help increase earnings. Here are some factors to consider.
First, gaining relevant experience can lead to higher pay. Starting with entry-level positions and gradually moving up can provide opportunities to earn more. Experience allows Security Guards to learn more skills and take on more responsibilities. Experience can also open doors to better-paying jobs.
Second, obtaining certifications can boost earning potential. Certifications in areas such as first aid, CPR, or specialized security training can make a Security Guard more valuable. Employers often pay more for these added skills. Certifications show commitment to the profession and can lead to promotions.
- Experience
- Certifications
- Education
- Shift Differentials
- Additional Training
Third, pursuing further education can lead to higher-paying positions. Many companies prefer or require Security Guards to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Going beyond basic education can create more opportunities. Higher education can lead to roles with more responsibility and better pay.
Fourth, taking on shift differentials can increase earnings. Working nights, weekends, or holidays often comes with higher pay. These shifts can provide additional income. Job seekers who are willing to work these times can earn more.
Lastly, undergoing additional training can open up higher-paying roles. Training in areas such as loss prevention, crowd control, or conflict resolution can make a Security Guard more versatile. This can lead to promotions and higher salaries. Continuous learning is key in this field.
