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Job description: Security
As a security officer working for a retail organisation, normally a larger operation or national chain, your role will be to make sure that the premises, stock, customers and staff are safe and secure. Essentially, you will help prevent theft and damage and deal with emergencies.
Your duties will include patrolling, securing and monitoring the outlet premises, sometimes with the aid of closed circuit television (CCTV), and supervising at the door.
You will keep accurate records and write short reports, which may be used by the police or courts. Your duties could also involve customer care and giving advice.
Hours and Environment
You could work up to 48 hours a week. This may increasingly include evenings and weekends, given the trend towards 24/7 shopping. Shift work is very common.
You may work on your own or in a small team.You would usually wear a uniform.
Skills and Interests
To be a security officer you will need:
- A mature and responsible attitude to work
- Honesty and integrity
- A polite and helpful manner
- A reasonable level of physical fitness
- The ability to write short reports and follow written instructions
- The confidence to challenge people when necessary
- The ability to use your initiative and make quick decisions to deal with unexpected situations
- The ability to work with technical equipment, such as CCTV.
Entry
You do not usually need academic qualifications to start work as a retail security officer. However, a good general standard of education would be helpful. Previous relevant experience, say working in the police or armed forces, could also be an advantage.
Employers will carry out checks on your personal and work history for up to ten years, so you will need to declare any criminal convictions you may have had.
Training
As a new security officer working for a retail chain, you will receive on-the-job training and supervision from your employer.
As you'll be carrying out duties for your employer, on premises managed and operated by your employer, currently you do not need to be licensed by the SIA - Security Industry Authority. However, please note that licensing in this area is under review.
If you use CCTV equipment or guard valuables in transit, you may need a relevant SIA licence such as the Cash and Valuables in Transit (CVIT) licence. See the SIA website for details.
You could also work towards qualifications such as: NVQ Level 2 in Providing Security Services and City & Guilds, NOCN or ASET awarded Certificate for Security Guards or Security Practitioners.
Skills for Security offer a range of courses relevant to the security industry. They also run a security supervisor training programme, which could help you move into security management.
You could also try the International Professional Security Association. This organisation runs security induction, supervisory management and specialist professional development courses.
Opportunities
Job opportunities are on the increase across the country. However, only a reputable company will give you training, reasonable pay and conditions you want.
With experience, you could progress to senior or chief security officer, then supervisor. You are not restricted to the retail environment.
You could move into another industry, or work for an independent security firm. With additional qualifications, you could go into security management or training, or even set up your own security company.
Annual Income
Annual income figures are intended as a guideline only.Starting salaries can be between £12,000 and £15,000 a year.Experienced officers can earn around £21,000.
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