How to get a security job as a security patrol officer

Did you know that 2023 is a great time to enter the security industry? Over the past years, there has been a drop in the number of people holding SIA licences following pandemic lockdowns. This opens the door for new people to enter the industry and start an exciting and rewarding career. So, could a Security Patrol Officer be just the right job for you?

The good thing is that many people can be Security Patrol officers if they want to. However, qualities like fitness, being observant, being a problem solver and being good at communication are valuable traits. Even if you feel you have not honed those skills yet, don’t worry because, with training, you will develop them.  

Responsibilities, Perks and Promotions 

While being a security patrol officer is flexible, it requires you to be alert at all times — there’s no room for bringing in books or college work while on shift! A security patrol officer makes regular patrols of a building, making inspections, monitoring surveillance equipment and checking that access points are secure. They also need to respond instantly to emergencies or conflict situations. 

You only need to have an SIA license to be qualified for the job, unlike other jobs that might require GCSEs. On top of that, unlike the typical 8-5 pm jobs, you get to work in shifts making this a flexible career option and giving you enough time to attend to other commitments. Also, if you love meeting new people daily, you will enjoy the job since you regularly interact with the public! 

To progress upward from being a security patrol officer, you need to be consistent. Show up, do an amazing job, and the rest will follow. Your excellent work ethic might get you to supervise your own team someday. 

Here are steps for you to follow;

Step 1 — Check Your Eligibility

You might want to confirm the SIA license eligibility requirements to ensure you are all good before going further and booking a course.  

• You must be over 18 years of age 
• You must be in good physical condition 
• You must pass a mental health check 
• You must know English well 
• You must have the right to work in the UK

Step 2 — Book and Attend Your Course

After your eligibility requirements are verified, you’re good to go! The next step is to book your course for free on our website. 

The security guard training starts from £179.99 for only four training days. You could also take the 6-day door supervisor training which will qualify you for the role of security parole officer but also gives you the flexibility to work other roles that involve premises where alcohol is served.

So that you know, 95% of the trainees pass the exam on the first attempt following the practical skills and knowledge taught. If there is an instance that you had taken up the course and realised along the way that this isn’t really what you want, there is a 100% money-back guarantee. (Terms apply). 

Step 3 — Get Your SIA Licence

It is mandatory to get a licence after passing the test. With a license fee of £184, you get to work legally as a Security Patrol Officer (as well as in other security roles where alcohol is not served) in the UK for three years.

Step 4 — Find A Job

Now that you are a qualified Security Patrol Officer, top job opportunities await you! 

This field has a wide range of roles you can choose from. You can be a site security guard, store detective, patrol officer, retail security officer and key holder.

You can fast-track your job hunting by downloading the GuardPass app. The app will help you get your ideal job by making it so easy to share your worker profile with various employers. Your profile contains a summary of your education, skills and qualifications, making reaching your preferred type of employer. 

Earning potential 

To begin with, you can expect to earn about £2,500 per month when working full time. And per hour, you can make £10-£14 per hour. Climbing up the earning ladder is super easy; just be consistent and willing to learn on the job to earn promotions. So, what are you waiting for? Sign up for our Security Guard training course today!