Security Guards
O*NET 33-9032.00 · SOC 33-9032
Security Guard is a solid career choice. Median pay is $38k a year with +0.9% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 156,000 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Patrol assigned areas to deter theft and unauthorized entry
- →Check identification badges of people entering secured buildings
- →Write incident reports describing security breaches or disturbances
- →Monitor security cameras and alarm systems for unusual activity
- →Respond to alarms and contact emergency services when needed
Education & How to Get In
Security Guard roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Security Guard involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Security Guard?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Security Guard Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Security Guards is projected to grow 0.9% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·36% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Security Guard make?
The median Security Guard earns $38k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Security Guard jobs?
Our model puts Security Guard at 41 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 36% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Security Guard a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 0.9% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 156,000 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Security Guard?
Most Security Guard roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Security Guard?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Security Guard career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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