Why this resume works
- Highlights industry-specific skills: The resume emphasizes industry-specific skills like surveillance systems and risk assessment, showing a strong alignment with the security field’s demands.
- Quantifies accomplishments: Quantifiable achievements such as reducing incidents by 20% and theft by 30% illustrate significant impact and effectiveness in previous roles.
- Uses action-oriented language: Action verbs like ‘monitored,’ ‘reduced,’ and ‘implemented’ create a dynamic narrative, effectively engaging the reader in the candidate’s accomplishments.
More Security Guard Resume Examples
Take a look at our security guard resume examples to learn how to highlight your vigilance, safety expertise, and incident response skills. These samples will help you craft a safety and security resume that impresses potential employers in the security industry.
Entry-level Security Guard
Why this resume works
- Features education section: The education section effectively highlights the candidate’s academic achievements through clear formatting and relevant details, emphasizing a solid foundation in criminal justice.
- Places skills near the top: Security hiring managers often scan resumes quickly, looking specifically for relevant technical abilities and certifications. This job seeker makes it easier by organizing their skills section near the top.
- Shows digital literacy: The inclusion of computer skills like ‘Security Systems’ demonstrates the candidate’s proficiency with modern technical tools, essential for ensuring readiness in today’s digital workplace.
Mid-level Security Guard
Why this resume works
- Hones in on real impact: The resume details specific reductions in security incidents and theft prevention, clearly illustrating the candidate’s ability to deliver measurable impact in their roles.
- Demonstrates language abilities: It highlights language proficiency in English, Spanish, and French, underscoring the candidate’s capability to communicate effectively across different cultural settings.
- Displays technical expertise: By listing skills like surveillance systems and certifications from recognized institutions, the resume underscores the candidate’s technical proficiency essential for security roles.
Experienced Security Guard
Why this resume works
- Showcases impressive accomplishments: The resume demonstrates senior-level impact through clear accomplishments, such as reducing thefts by 40% and saving $50,000 annually by detecting fraud activities.
- Focuses on work history: With a chronological layout detailing job roles from 2006 to 2025, the resume effectively emphasizes a comprehensive work history ideal for an experienced professional.
- Emphasizes leadership skills: Leadership skills are underscored by training staff on safety measures and implementing effective security protocols, which significantly enhanced team awareness and operational efficiency.
Security Guard Resume Template (Text Version)
David Zhang
Brookfield, WI 53007
(555)555-5555
David.Zhang@example.com
Skills
- Surveillance Systems
- Access Control
- Emergency Response
- Risk Assessment
- Incident Reporting
- Patrolling
- Safety Training
- Security Audits
Languages
- English – Beginner (A1)
- Spanish – Beginner (A1)
- French – Beginner (A1)
Professional Summary
Experienced security guard with 8 years in risk assessment, incident management, and surveillance. Proven success in reducing theft and enhancing team protocols.
Work History
Security Guard
Titan Protection Services – Brookfield, WI
March 2022 – February 2025
- Monitored 50+ surveillance cameras daily
- Reduced incidents by 20% through proactive patrolling
- Managed access control for 100+ employees
Security Officer
SecureShield Inc. – Brookfield, WI
March 2018 – February 2022
- Conducted daily security audits, reducing risks by 15%
- Trained new staff on safety protocols, increasing compliance
- Handled emergency situations, coordinating with law enforcement
Safety Supervisor
Guardian Security Solutions – Milwaukee, WI
March 2015 – February 2018
- Implemented new security measures, reducing theft by 30%
- Supervised a team of 10 guards, ensuring protocol adherence
- Reported daily activities and incidents to management
Certifications
- Certified Protection Professional (CPP) – ASIS International
- First Aid and CPR – American Red Cross
Education
Master’s Degree Criminal Justice
University of Washington Seattle, Washington
June 2015
Bachelor’s Degree Law Enforcement
California State University Los Angeles, California
June 2013
Popular Skills for a Security Guard Resume
A well-crafted resume skills section is crucial for highlighting the blend of hard and soft skills necessary to thrive as a security guard. Skills such as attention to detail, physical fitness, and effective communication are essential for ensuring the safety of people and property.
Below are a few of the top soft skills frequently listed on security guard resumes.
| Soft Skills | % of resumes with this skill |
|---|---|
| Verbal and written communication | 60.00% |
| Reliability | 29.93% |
| Work ethic | 25.08% |
| Punctuality | 24.92% |
| Keen observer | 16.93% |
Here are a few examples of hard skills frequently included on security guard resumes.
| Hard Skills | % of resumes with this skill |
|---|---|
| Workplace safety | 62.28% |
| Patrolling | 56.89% |
| Security camera monitoring | 55.33% |
| First aid certified | 26.13% |
| Incident reporting | 25.58% |
Advice for Writing Your Security Guard Resume
Trying to get hired as a security guard? Let’s talk about how to make a resume that shows off your skills, experience, and commitment to keeping people and property safe. We’ll walk you through what to include so you stand out to employers.
Write a strong professional summary
A professional summary is a short statement at the top of your resume that showcases your main skills and experiences. It quickly demonstrates to employers why you are well-suited for the security guard role. For those with extensive experience, use a summary to emphasize your achievements and expertise. If you’re new to the field, a resume objective can convey your enthusiasm and eagerness to learn.
Seasoned candidates should mention specific abilities like surveillance, emergency response, and conflict resolution. Highlight any certifications or previous roles where you made a notable impact. Use action verbs such as “ensured,” “protected,” or “monitored” to describe your accomplishments.
If you’re just starting out, focus on relevant skills from other jobs or training programs. Mention traits like reliability, attention to detail, and strong communication skills. State your career goals and how they align with the security guard position.
By using straightforward language and emphasizing key strengths, you can craft an effective professional summary that captures attention immediately. The examples below should help.
Security guard resume summary examples
Entry-Level
Recent graduate with a diploma in Security Management and certification in First Aid/CPR. Equipped with foundational skills in surveillance, emergency response, and access control. Strong attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining safety and security within various environments. Ready to contribute as a proactive member of a security team.
Mid-career
Dedicated security guard with over 5 years of experience ensuring the safety of commercial and residential properties. Proficient in conflict resolution, incident reporting, and operating advanced security systems. Recognized for reliability, quick decision-making skills, and maintaining calm under pressure. Holds a valid Security Guard License and Firearm Permit.
Experienced
Highly experienced security supervisor with 15+ years in the field overseeing large-scale security operations for corporate offices and events. Expert in risk management, team leadership, and strategic planning. Proven track record of reducing incidents through effective training programs and implementation of advanced security technologies. Certified Protection Professional (CPP) with strong analytical skills aimed at enhancing overall safety protocols.
Security guard resume objective examples
Recent graduate
Recent graduate with a certification in security and public safety seeking an entry-level security guard position. Eager to apply strong observational skills, vigilance, and commitment to maintaining a safe environment for clients and property.
Career changer
Dedicated professional transitioning from customer service to a security guard role, bringing exceptional interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and a strong sense of responsibility. Committed to ensuring the safety and security of personnel and premises.
Specialized training
Certified security guard with specialized training in emergency response and conflict resolution seeking to join a reputable organization. Passionate about leveraging my training to provide robust security solutions and contribute to a secure environment for all stakeholders.
Use the Resume Builder to create your security guard resume. It helps you quickly add your skills and experience with easy-to-use templates.
Include relevant certifications and training
Listing certifications, licenses, and specialized training is very important for a security guard. These credentials show that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to protect people and property. They also prove that you meet industry standards. A dedicated “Certifications” section on your resume can really help you stand out to employers.
Here are some certifications you’re likely to find a security guard resume:
- Security Guard License (varies by state)
- CPR and First Aid Certification
- OSHA 30-Hour General Industry Certification
- Certified Protection Officer (CPO)
- Firearm Permit (for armed security guards)
By highlighting your certifications prominently, you show employers that you are qualified and up-to-date with current security practices. This can make a big difference in getting hired as a security guard.
Let’s see what this section looks like in action.
Example of a certifications section
Certified Security Guard
Issued by: National Association of Security Companies (NASCO)
Issued 2022
CPR and First Aid Certification
Issued by: American Red Cross
Expires 2024
Firearms Training Certification
Issued by: Security Training Academy
Issued 2021
Conflict Resolution Certification
Issued by: International Security Training Organization (ISTO)
Issued 2023
A combination resume format is great if you need to highlight certifications as much as experience. It puts your key qualifications up front, making it easy for employers to see you meet their requirements.
Showcase your work experience
Highlighting your work experience is essential for a security guard role as it demonstrates your ability to handle the job. When listing your work history, arrange it in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position. Each entry should include your job title, employer name, location, and employment dates.
Use concise, action-oriented bullet points to describe your duties and achievements. For example, instead of “Monitored premises,” you could say “Effectively monitored premises to ensure safety and prevent unauthorized access.” Whenever possible, quantify your accomplishments with measurable results like “Reduced incidents by 20% through vigilant patrolling.”
Include core responsibilities specific to security guards such as monitoring surveillance equipment and conducting regular patrols. Highlight any specialized training or certifications relevant to security work.
By presenting your experience clearly and effectively with these tips, you can make a strong impression on potential employers.
5 security guard work history bullet points
- Monitored and patrolled assigned areas, reducing incidents of theft and vandalism by 25%.
- Implemented advanced surveillance techniques, leading to a 40% increase in incident detection.
- Conducted regular safety drills and training sessions, improving emergency response times by 15%.
- Collaborated with local law enforcement on security measures, resulting in a 20% decrease in criminal activity.
- Maintained detailed reports of daily activities and irregularities, enhancing accountability and communication within the team.
Using the right keywords from the job posting can help your resume pass ATS and catch a recruiter’s eye.
Match your resume with the job description
It’s important to customize your resume to align with the job description for a security guard position. Doing so highlights your relevant skills and makes you more noticeable to employers. Start by identifying key terms in the job listing, such as “patrol,” “monitor,” “report incidents,” or “ensure safety.”
Incorporate these keywords into your resume. For instance, if the job ad mentions “Patrol designated areas to ensure safety,” you might include a bullet point like: “Patrolled assigned areas to maintain a safe environment for all employees and visitors.” This ensures your document is ATS-friendly, increasing its chances of being seen by hiring managers.
Use our ATS Resume Checker to make sure your resume gets noticed by employers! It finds mistakes and gives advice so you can improve your resume.
Salary Insights for Security Guards
Knowing what security guards earn can help you plan your career or decide if a job in a new city is worth it. Below, you’ll find details on salary trends in the industry.
Top 10 highest-paying states for security guards
Our salary information comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey. This official government data provides the most comprehensive and reliable salary information for security guards across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The figures represent the most recent data available as of May 2023.
The national average salary for security guard is $38,921.
| State | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $54,830 |
| Alaska | $52,220 |
| Washington | $47,190 |
| Minnesota | $47,390 |
| Maryland | $47,450 |
| New Hampshire | $45,220 |
| Colorado | $44,640 |
| California | $44,940 |
| Massachusetts | $44,310 |
| New York | $44,250 |
FAQ
Do I need to include a cover letter with my security guard resume?
Adding a cover letter to your security guard resume is beneficial, even if it’s not mandatory. It allows you to demonstrate your specific interest in the position and highlight relevant experience or skills that make you an ideal candidate.
For instance, mentioning past experience in high-security environments or specialized training such as CPR or conflict resolution can distinguish you from other applicants. Moreover, it’s a chance to show your awareness of the company’s unique needs and how you can add value to their security team.
Keep it brief but tailor it for each job application by using tools like our Cover Letter Generator or by reviewing cover letter examples. Adding a personalized cover letter could be the key to getting noticed!
How long should a security guard’s resume be?
A security guard’s resume should typically be one page to remain concise and allow hiring managers to efficiently review your qualifications, as explained in our guide on resume length.
Focus on showcasing relevant experience, such as previous security positions, certifications like CPR or first aid, and any specialized training. If you possess extensive experience or additional relevant skills, a two-page resume is acceptable. Ultimately, though, make sure your most recent and pertinent information is highlighted to effectively demonstrate your strengths.
How do you write a security guard resume with no experience?
For those entering the security guard field without prior experience, concentrate on highlighting transferable skills, training, and any relevant certifications. This resume with no experience guide provides useful tips:
- Showcase your abilities: Focus on key skills like attention to detail, keen observational capabilities, effective communication, and physical fitness, all essential for a security guard.
- Educational background: Start by listing your high school diploma or GED. If you’ve taken courses in criminal justice or similar areas, be sure to include them.
- Certifications and training programs: Highlight any completed security training programs or certifications such as CPR or First Aid to demonstrate preparedness for emergencies.
- Volunteer experiences: Mention volunteer roles that required responsibility and vigilance (e.g., community patrols or event assistance), showcasing your reliability and dedication.
- Objective statement: Craft a strong objective that reflects your enthusiasm for the position and readiness to learn on the job. For instance, “Dedicated individual seeking a security guard position to utilize strong observation skills and commitment to safety.”
By focusing on these elements, you can craft an impressive resume despite lacking direct experience.
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Elizabeth is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and member of the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches. She is committed to helping job seekers navigate the job market and succeed in their careers.
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