Security Officer

Summary

Security officers protect people and property, and maintain crowd control.

Duties & Tasks

Security officers may perform the following tasks:

  • patrol areas and check doors, gates and windows for signs of unauthorised entry
  • watch for irregularities (such as fire hazards, leaking water pipes, lights left on, equipment malfunctions, unlocked security doors) and report incidents or problems to the appropriate authority
  • record times of inspections and presence of authorised persons
  • respond to alarms and check alarm systems
  • provide armed escort for payroll deliveries
  • observe and report suspects to police, or apprehend offenders when appropriate and detain them until police arrive
  • monitor computer alarm systems, closed circuit television (CCTV) systems and communicate by radio with mobile units to attend alarms
  • issue security passes, give directions and make security arrangements for authorised visitors
  • check travellers and their hand luggage to detect concealed weapons and explosives
  • detect and report fraud, shoplifting and other unlawful acts by employees or patrons of business establishments
  • provide armed protection for specific organisations (banks, for example)
  • provide assistance to the public and clients.

Specialisations

Air Marshal

An air marshal provides security at major airports as well as on domestic and international flights into and out of Australia. They are employed by the Australian Federal Police Protective Services (AFPPS).

Australian Protective Service Officer

An Australian protective service officer provides security at Australian Government premises. They are employed by the Australian Federal Police Protective Services (AFPPS).

Bodyguard

A bodyguard carries out the personal protection of another person.

Crowd Controller

A crowd controller maintains order at large gatherings of people such as at night clubs or concerts.

Gatekeeper

A gatekeeper makes sure that only authorised people or vehicles enter or leave particular premises. They may also check parking areas and vehicle loads.

Mobile Patrol Guard

A mobile patrol guard moves by car or motorcycle between a number of establishments such as building sites or factories in an industrial estate to prevent fire or flood damage, theft and vandalism.

Security Agent

A security agent performs all the duties of a security officer, but may also hire out and supply a guard dog for the purpose of protecting or guarding a person or property. A security firm must be licensed to carry out this additional security task.

Store Security Officer

A store security officer protects the property of retail stores by detecting and preventing shoplifting, investigating criminal offences and carrying out other security tasks.

Working Conditions

Security officers usually do shiftwork and may work at nights, on weekends and public holidays.

Personal Requirements

  • physically fit (may be required to pass a medical examination)
  • good hearing and eyesight (may be corrected)
  • observant
  • responsible and trustworthy
  • assertive with good interpersonal skills
  • good communication and negotiation skills
  • age restrictions apply for the carrying of firearms
  • able to pass a National Police Check
  • Australian citizenship, or eligibility for citizenship, for Australian Protective Service Officer positions.

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