Security guards and related security service occupations

Example job titles

• alarm investigator
• armoured car guard
• bodyguard (except police)
• commissionaire
• corporate security officer
• house detective
• night guard
• postal inspection officer
• private investigator
• private security officer
• screening officer
• security guard
• store detective
• theft prevention officer

Main duties

• This group performs some or all of the following duties:
• Security guards
• Control access to establishments, operate security control-room equipment and patrol assigned areas to guard against theft, vandalism and fire
• Enforce regulations to maintain order and resolve conflicts and to monitor establishment activities
• Ensure safety and emergency procedures are followed
• Issue passes and direct visitors to appropriate areas and check age identification of patrons.
• Screening officers
• Inspect and screen luggage or cargo using equipment or hands
• Perform searches of passengers with tools or by hand
• Monitor and screen passengers through screening checkpoints and other procedures.

Employment requirements

• Completion of secondary school is usually required.
• A college diploma in law and security or police technology may be required.
• Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) certification is required for screening officers.
• Security guards carrying firearms require a licence.
• Armoured car drivers require a valid Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) for both restricted and non-restricted firearms.
• In Quebec, a permit issued by the Bureau de la sécurité privée (BSP) is required to work as a private detective or security officer.
• Corporate security officers may require experience as a police officer.
• Private investigators require provincial licensure.

Approved positions by year