QUALIFICATIONS

All security officers must show good judgment and common sense, follow directions and directives from supervisors, be capable of accurate report writing and follow company policy and guidelines. Officers should have a professional appearance and attitude, and be able to interact with the public. They also must be able to take charge and direct others in emergencies or other safety situations.

All employees performing guard work must be licensed by the State of California. To be licensed as a Security Officer, individuals must be at least 18 years of age, pass a background check, and complete classroom training in such subjects as property rights, emergency procedures, report writing, and detention of suspected criminals. Drug testing is required, and may be random and ongoing.

Applicants are expected to have good character references, no serious police record, and be in good health. They should be mentally alert, emotionally stable, and physically fit, in order to cope with emergencies. Security Officers who have frequent contact with the public should communicate well. COLT SECURITY implements hiring and screening programs consisting of background checks, criminal record file and fingerprint checks.
 

WORKING CONDITIONS

Most Security Officers spend considerable time on their feet, either assigned to a specific post or patrolling buildings and grounds. Officers may be stationed at a guard desk inside a building to monitor electronic security and surveillance devices, or to check the credentials of persons entering or leaving the premises. They also may be stationed outside at a guardhouse of the sort found at gated communities, and use a portable radio or telephone that allows them to be in constant contact with a central station or dispatch center outside the guarded area.

Guard work is usually routine, but guards must be constantly alert for threats to themselves and the property they are protecting. Security Officers who perform guard work during the day may have a great deal of contact with other employees, members of the public and the law enforcement community.

Security Officers work at least 8-hour shifts for 40 hours per week and are often on call in case an emergency arises. Many of our posts have three shifts, and officers rotate to equally divide daytime, weekend, and holiday work. Officers usually eat on the job instead of taking a regular break away from the site. Major holidays are compensated at time and a half. There is opportunity and advancement potential for career-minded individuals.