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First-Line Supervisors of Security Workers

In the First-Line Supervisors of Security Workers occupation, workers directly supervise and coordinate activities of security workers and security guards. You may also need to investigate disturbances on the premises, such as security alarms, altercations, and suspicious activity. On the six-type interest model it reads ECR, meaning leading, persuading and making business decisions comes first, followed by orderly work with data, records and clear procedures. Plan on a few months to a year of learning on the job; O*NET labels this some preparation. Strength in active listening, speaking, and reading comprehension helps most here. If you want leading, persuading and making business decisions, keep it on your list. If you need creative work with room for original expression, it may feel thin.

What they do

Directly supervise and coordinate activities of security workers and security guards.

Main tasks

  • Investigate disturbances on the premises, such as security alarms, altercations, and suspicious activity.
  • Patrol the premises to prevent or detect intrusion, protect property, or preserve order.
  • Monitor and authorize entry of employees, visitors, or other persons.
  • Secure entrances and exits by locking doors and gates.
  • Write reports documenting observations made while on patrol.
  • Monitor the behavior of security employees to ensure adherence to quality standards, deadlines, or procedures.

Skills

  • Active Listening
  • Speaking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Critical Thinking
  • Monitoring

Who this career fits

May suit you if

  • You like taking the lead and making the call.
  • You like clear rules and getting the details right.
  • You want to start work after a short stretch of training.
  • You are comfortable relying on active listening and speaking.

May not suit you if

  • You would rather not persuade, sell or manage other people.
  • You need creative expression to be a big part of your day. Artistic rates 1.0 out of 7 here.
  • You want a career built on years of advanced study.

Interest profile

O*NET rates each occupation from 1 to 7 on six interest types. The code ECR takes the three highest, and Enterprising comes first here.

Preparation

Some preparation. Most people start with a high school diploma, then learn from experienced coworkers over a few months to a year.

Most-reported requirement in the O*NET survey: Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree. This reflects what workers reported most often and is not a legal minimum. Licensing rules can differ by state or industry, so confirm what applies where you plan to work.

Also called

  • Campus Safety Chief
  • Public Safety Manager
  • Public Safety Supervisor
  • Security Chief
  • Security Director

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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.