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Security Management Specialists

O*NET files this work under Security Management Specialists: people who conduct security assessments for organizations, and design security systems and processes. The strongest interest signal is Conventional (5.7 of 7), then Investigative (5.1) and Realistic, which gives it the code CIR. The preparation level is considerable preparation, typically a bachelor’s degree plus a period of work experience. O*NET’s skill data points to active listening, speaking, and critical thinking as the ones to build. You may also need to assess the nature and level of physical security threats so that the scope of the problem can be determined. 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

Conduct security assessments for organizations, and design security systems and processes. May specialize in areas such as physical security or the safety of employees and facilities.

Main tasks

  • Assess the nature and level of physical security threats so that the scope of the problem can be determined.
  • Respond to emergency situations on an on-call basis.
  • Recommend improvements in security systems or procedures.
  • Perform risk analyses so that appropriate countermeasures can be developed.
  • Inspect physical security design features, installations, or programs to ensure compliance with applicable standards or regulations.
  • Conduct security audits to identify potential vulnerabilities related to physical security or staff safety.

Skills

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

Who this career fits

May suit you if

  • You like clear rules and getting the details right.
  • You enjoy working out why something happens, not just what happened.
  • You are ready to spend around four years on a degree, then build experience.
  • You are comfortable relying on active listening 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 1.7 out of 7 here.
  • You want to avoid a four-year degree or its equivalent.

Interest profile

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

Preparation

Considerable preparation. Most jobs here ask for a bachelor’s degree, and employers usually expect a few years of related experience as well.

Most-reported requirement in the O*NET survey: Bachelor's 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

  • Physical Security Engineer
  • Physical Security Specialist
  • Security Advisor
  • Security Analyst
  • Security and Workplace Violence Consultant

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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.