Wages, California

Entry-Level Hourly Wage	$7.22
25th Percentile	$7.52
50th Percentile	$8.48
75th Percentile	$10.39

Wages, San Joaquin County

Entry-Level Hourly Wage	$6.98
25th Percentile	$7.37
50th Percentile	$8.38
75th Percentile	$12.40

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Since guards are needed around the clock, they may be assigned to any eight-hour shift or to rotating shifts. At least two-thirds of the work is at night. Guards may also work any day of the year. Employers sometimes pay higher rates for night shifts and sometimes for holidays. Most contract guards (those employed by an outside service agency) and some in-house guards work on-call or part time for at least their first 90 days. Guards who do well on these assignments can move into full time, permanent positions when they are available.

Employers usually furnish required equipment such as two-way radios, time clocks and weapons (if armed guards are needed). Many employers provide uniforms and uniform cleaning allowances.

Employment Trends, California

Employment 1998	124,900
Projected Employment 2008	176,900
Percent Change 1998-2008	41.6%
Separations 1998-2008	37,600

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County

Employment 1999	1,250
Projected Employment 2006	1,810
Percent Change 1999-2006	44.8%
Separations 1999-2006	270

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Although the work can be different depending on the assignment, most guard work is routine, tiring, and a bit dangerous. Some guards work alone and at night in far off locations, while others work with other officers during the day. Security Guards may be stationed at factory gates, building lobbies, shopping centers, television stations, apartment/condominium complexes, construction sites, hospitals, museums, or parking lots.

Advancement
With more experience and/or education, you may promote to Security Supervisor or Owner/Operator of a Security Service.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Information about openings can be found in newspaper classified ads, through the California Employment Development Department, or by applying directly to employers. Companies hiring their own guards sometimes select from among those already working for them on a contract basis. Federal, State, and local government jobs are filled through competitive exams; information about these job openings can be had from civil service offices.

For a list of current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Uniformed contract guards and armed in-house guards must be registered with the Department of Consumer Affairs and have a guard registration card. Preliminary registration requirements include passing a fingerprint and background check and a self-study course in the powers of arrest, with an open-book test on the exercise of the power of arrest given by the employer. Full registration requires completion of a formal, day-long, powers of arrest course in an approved school.

Applicants applying for a gun permit must also complete a 14-hour written and range exam on the carrying and use of firearms. The training must be completed at a Bureau of Collection and Investigative Services approved training facility. Applicants with felony convictions may apply if convicted more than seven years ago.

Skills & Other Requirements
Applicants are expected to have good character references, good health, especially in hearing and eyesight, and good personal habits such as neatness and dependability. They should be mentally alert, emotionally stable, and physically fit to deal with emergencies. Contract services generally require guards to have their own phone and car.

References
California Occupational Guide: #75

Related Occupations: Law Enforcement Occupations

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)