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Retail Loss Prevention Specialists

O*NET files this work under Retail Loss Prevention Specialists: people who implement procedures and systems to prevent merchandise loss. On the six-type interest model it reads CER, meaning orderly work with data, records and clear procedures comes first, followed by leading, persuading and making business decisions. The preparation level is some preparation, typically a few months to a year of learning on the job. O*NET’s skill data points to critical thinking, speaking, and monitoring as the ones to build. Expect to investigate known or suspected internal theft, external theft, or vendor fraud. It tends to suit people who want orderly work with data, records and clear procedures, and it offers little for anyone seeking creative work with room for original expression.

What they do

Implement procedures and systems to prevent merchandise loss. Conduct audits and investigations of employee activity. May assist in developing policies, procedures, and systems for safeguarding assets.

Main tasks

  • Investigate known or suspected internal theft, external theft, or vendor fraud.
  • Implement or monitor processes to reduce property or financial losses.
  • Identify and report merchandise or stock shortages.
  • Maintain documentation or reports on security-related incidents or investigations.
  • Apprehend shoplifters in accordance with guidelines.
  • Verify proper functioning of physical security systems, such as closed-circuit televisions, alarms, sensor tag systems, or locks.

Skills

  • Critical Thinking
  • Speaking
  • Monitoring
  • Active Listening
  • Social Perceptiveness
  • Judgment and Decision Making

Who this career fits

May suit you if

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

May not suit you if

  • You get restless with routine, records and exact procedures.
  • 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 CER takes the three highest, and Conventional 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: High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED). 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

  • Asset Protection Associate (APA)
  • Loss Prevention Agent
  • Loss Prevention Associate (LPA)
  • Loss Prevention Detective
  • Loss Prevention Investigator

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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.