Security Guard Job Descriptions

Create your own Security Guard job description, or find job description examples you can re-use to hire faster.

Security Guard Job Description

Security guards are responsible for looking after the safety of individuals and property. They can work for a single company or a service that provides security guards to businesses as they’re needed. Someone in this position will complete a variety of tasks to fulfill their purpose. For example, a security guard will typically be responsible for patrolling a designated area. They will keep an eye open for any suspicious behavior, signs of trespass, and other events that need to be responded to. 

When an issue is uncovered, it’s the security guard’s job to resolve it. They might do so themselves, but they may also call a local law enforcement agency for assistance.

To qualify for a security guard position, a person doesn’t need to have any formal training or education. But having previous experience in a similar role can be generally looked upon favorably by the companies that hire for this role.

Security Guard Job Description Template

We’re looking for an observant and responsible security guard to add to our team. In this role, it will be your job to ensure the safety of everyone who works in or visits our clients’ locations. You will also be responsible for ensuring the safety of our clients’ property as one of our security guards.

Your main task will be to patrol a designated area to make it secure. You will set up security controls, monitor access to the property, and investigate instances of suspicious behavior. When a security issue arises, you will respond to it based on the training you receive and our company’s policies.

To do well in this role, you will need to be highly observant and capable of accurately assessing the severity of each situation. You should be able to remain calm and make the right decision no matter what situation you encounter.

You don’t need to have any formal training as a security guard to qualify for this position. But we are primarily interested in candidates who have previous experience in a similar role. If you think that you fit what we’re looking for, you can send over your resume to begin the application process.

Security Guard Responsibilities:

  • Patrol designated areas to keep them safe and secure
  • Assist with the installation and maintenance of security control processes and systems
  • Monitor surveillance cameras
  • Communicate with local law enforcement organizations
  • Investigate and respond to suspicious behavior
  • Monitor public access to our clients’ spaces

Security Guard Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Previous experience in a similar role is strongly preferred
  • Excellent observational and surveillance skills
  • Ability to remain calm in the face of chaotic situations
  • Knowledge of all state and local laws

Security Guard FAQ

What tasks does a security guard complete?

A security guard’s job revolves around the safekeeping of designated areas, such as a company’s building. They monitor who comes and goes and perform patrols of the area. Someone in this role will also need to respond to security incidents, maintain accurate logs, and communicate with local law enforcement agencies as needed.

What should I include in my security guard help-wanted ads?

We recommend that you use our template above to determine the right structure for your help-wanted ads. It’s best to begin with a few paragraphs that highlight the most important aspects of the position. Then create two bulleted lists to provide a closer look at the responsibilities and requirements of your security guard job.

Can I use your security guard job description template?

Yes, we have no problem with you using as much of our job description templates as you think will be beneficial to your company.

Frequently Asked Questions about hiring a Security Guard

What is the best way to find and hire a Security Guard near me?
Online job boards are the best place to find qualified Security Guard applicants. Employers posting their Security Guard job on Indeed get about 12 applications from that board on average.
Which job boards should I post on to find Security Guard applicants?
You should post to multiple job boards at once. The most successful job postings for a Security Guard are on Indeed – but on average, employers post to 12 boards at the same time, using tools like Workstream. Publishing to multiple job boards at once helps you get your first applicant in 21 hours on average, which is shorter than the national average for Security Guard positions.
What's the best way to communicate with applicants looking for a Security Guard role?
SMS has 98% open rates which is higher than phone call or Email. Text to hire today!
Is it OK to text Security Guard job applicants?
Hourly paid workers, such as Security Guards are actually more engaged when texting about jobs. We have found that text messages are 154% better than email at getting an applicant's response. Have a look at Workstream, which automates the process of texting and uses a phone number specifically assigned to your job post so you don’t have to use your personal phone.
Can I use a different phone number to engage Security Guard applicants via text message?
Yes, tools such as Workstream provide custom phone numbers that allow employers to engage with applicants through their tool without having to use a personal or business cell phone.

Try out Workstream to hire a Security Guard for
your Services business

A revolutionary hiring process for Services positions

A revolutionary hiring process for Services positions Hiring restaurant staff in San Francisco can be a tough job. Workstream can help accelerate the process by letting you post on job boards like Indeed within seconds.


1-Click Job Posting

No more tedious copy and pasting. We integrate with all the top job boards. All applicants funnel into one intuitive dashboard.

Text-to-Apply Posters

Print out your unique QR code and text message number. Applicants scan/text to see all open positions and apply right away.

Automated & 2-Way SMS

Engage with applicants via text. Include links to screening questions, forms, and more. Use 2-way text to answer questions.

Endless Integrations

Connect Workstream to your calendar so applicants can schedule interviews. Streamline onboarding with background check & HR integrations.

Candidate Tracking & Scoring

View all your applicants and employees in one place. Make notes on their progress. Access their docs anytime from anywhere.

Customizable Templates

We provide templates for everything from job postings to offer letters. Send links to docs and tax forms via text message so new hires sign digital copies.

Best Services job descriptions