How much does a Surveillance Officer make?
Surveillance Officers, also known as security officers, can expect to earn an average yearly salary of $37,521. This role involves monitoring and protecting people, properties, and information. Many factors can affect the salary, including experience, location, and employer. Below are some specifics about the salary ranges:
According to recent data, the salary range for Surveillance Officers varies widely. The lowest 10% earn around $28,500 a year, while the top 10% earn about $52,000 annually. Here are more detailed salary breakdowns:
- 10% earn $28,500
- 20% earn $30,636
- 30% earn $32,773
- 40% earn $34,909
- 50% earn $37,045
- 60% earn $39,182
- 70% earn $41,318
- 80% earn $43,455
- 90% earn $45,591
- 95% earn $47,727
- 100% earn $52,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Surveillance Officer?

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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $48,000
Working as a Surveillance Officer in Portland involves ensuring safety and security for residents and businesses. With a strong community focus, officers often collaborate with local organizations. Portland's diverse environment adds a layer of unique challenges and experiences.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $44,468
In Phoenix, a Surveillance Officer monitors public spaces and protects properties for businesses and organizations. The city’s bustling urban landscape requires quick thinking and strong observational skills. Many officers work with major companies in the tech and healthcare sectors.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $43,188
Baltimore offers a vibrant setting for those in surveillance roles. Officers here ensure safety in a mix of urban and historic environments. The city’s varied districts provide a dynamic work experience. Key employers include government agencies and large corporations.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $42,988
Minneapolis provides a dynamic environment for Surveillance Officers. The city's strong emphasis on public safety makes this role crucial. Officers often work with major healthcare providers and financial institutions, ensuring the security of both employees and assets.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $41,909
Surveillance Officers in Honolulu enjoy a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes. They work to maintain security in both urban areas and tourist hotspots. Officers often collaborate with hotels and attractions, providing a diverse work experience.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $41,714
In Stamford, Surveillance Officers play a vital role in corporate security. The city is home to many large corporations, offering opportunities for those who enjoy working in a business-centric environment. Officers ensure the safety of both employees and sensitive information.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $41,667
Tampa’s warm climate and growing economy create an exciting environment for Surveillance Officers. The city’s expanding business sector offers diverse opportunities. Officers here often work with major banks and insurance companies, focusing on protection and safety.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $41,020
In Las Vegas, Surveillance Officers navigate the city's vibrant nightlife and bustling casinos. The role requires keen attention to detail and the ability to handle high-pressure situations. Officers often work with major hotel chains and entertainment venues.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $40,325
Tucson provides a unique setting for Surveillance Officers, combining urban life with natural beauty. Officers here ensure safety in both residential and commercial areas. The city’s diverse landscape offers a varied work experience, often involving collaboration with educational institutions and tech companies.
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Albuquerque, NM
Average Salary: $39,899
Albuquerque offers a mix of urban and natural environments for Surveillance Officers. The city’s growing tech sector provides numerous opportunities. Officers work to ensure safety in both residential neighborhoods and commercial areas, often collaborating with research facilities and government agencies.
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What are the best companies a Surveillance Officer can work for?

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Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment
Average Salary: $43,902
Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment provides exciting Surveillance Officer roles in Arizona. They focus on security and ensure a safe environment for guests and staff. Locations include Tucson, Phoenix, and other areas within Arizona.
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Caesars Entertainment
Average Salary: $39,716
Caesars Entertainment offers Surveillance Officer positions in various cities across the United States. This company values safety and professionalism. They operate in cities such as Las Vegas, Atlantic City, and many others.
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Bally's Corporation
Average Salary: $37,409
Bally's Corporation hires Surveillance Officers to help maintain security at their locations. They focus on providing a secure environment for their guests. Locations include major cities like Chicago, Baltimore, and others.
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Delaware North
Average Salary: $36,463
Delaware North offers Surveillance Officer jobs in several states. They emphasize ensuring safety and security for their guests. They operate in various locations, including major airports and sports venues.
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Hollywood Casino
Average Salary: $33,462
Hollywood Casino provides Surveillance Officer jobs in Pennsylvania and other states. They focus on security and ensuring a safe environment. They operate in cities such as Erie and Chester.
How to earn more as a Surveillance Officer?
Surveillance Officers can explore several strategies to increase their earnings. By focusing on professional growth and specialized skills, they can enhance their job prospects and salary. Staying informed about industry trends and continuously updating skills will help them stand out in a competitive job market.
Experience plays a crucial role in earning potential. Those who gain more years of service and accumulate a wealth of experience often qualify for higher positions or specialized roles that come with better pay. Additionally, pursuing advanced certifications in surveillance technologies, security management, and risk assessment can lead to significant salary improvements. Engaging in ongoing education and training not only increases knowledge but also demonstrates a commitment to professional development.
Here are five factors that can help a Surveillance Officer earn more:
- Advanced Certifications: Obtaining certifications in areas like CCTV operation, emergency response, or cybersecurity can lead to higher-paying positions.
- Specialized Roles: Moving into specialized roles such as security manager, loss prevention specialist, or corporate security advisor can offer higher salaries.
- Ongoing Education: Attending workshops, seminars, and continuing education courses helps in staying current with industry trends and technologies.
- Networking: Building professional connections can lead to job opportunities that are not publicly advertised and often pay more.
- Performance: Consistently high performance and taking on additional responsibilities can result in promotions and salary increases.



