Security guards in Alberta typically start out above minimum wage. Compared to many entry level jobs where workers have to work in hot, dangerous, or highly stressful environments, the average working environment in security services will either be in a climate-controlled indoor location, or have provisions for safety and comfort if the guard is stationed outdoors.
How much do security guards make?
Making money as a security guard in Alberta, Canada is within reach of anyone who has the right attitude, mindset, and training. The average salary of a security guard for part time work is between $17-$20/hr, and if an employee becomes full time salaried, the security guard salary can extend beyond $48,000 even early in their career.
You can work hard to increase your hourly wage or salary by increasing your skillsets with further training. Some guard also opt to take their handcuff training or take the Alberta Investigators Training (AIT) to be qualified as a private investigator as well, for example.
Having the correct training
If you are interested in making money as a security guard in Alberta, the first thing you need to do is get your security guard licence. You can do this by taking in-person or online security guard training (ABST) through an accredited provider, such as Tip of Spear.
The correct training will provide you with the right skill set to begin your security career in Canada, as well as position you to earn higher pay as you progress from a guard position into administration, security systems management, or even law enforcement.
Choosing the best sector for you
There are many sectors you can work in within the security industry. Because almost any field with a physical presence requires security, the options for security work are quite broad. These include:
Security management
Public sector security
Armed security guard positions
Private sector security professionals
Retail loss prevention officers
And much more
Working conditions will be a determining factor in choosing the best sector for you; whether you like to work indoors or outdoors, on the ground or in an office, and how much public interaction you want. Also, if you want to pursue a track in law enforcement, you may choose a sector that puts you in close contact with police officers, such as outdoor public security (for example, train stations, or malls).
Finding the best position
Finding the best position for you to make money as a security guard in Alberta, is all about understanding the industry. You need to know the different security companies and their hourly wages, and then you also need to know whether you want to work full time or part time.
It’s best to think of a security career as a progression of positions. You may start out in an entry level position that doesn’t seem like the best fit, but if you are serious and you work hard, there are endless opportunities to move up and make more money.
One of the best places to begin your security career (once you have your licence) is to start by finding a security guard position with a company that seems appealing to you. Tip of Spear works to support your job hunt by providing a list of open security job openings for you to browse. Tip of Spear can also connect their graduates with employers who are looking to hire new staff.
Is a security career the right way for you to make money?
When it comes down to it, you can make money doing anything. The people who choose a security career are those who value their part as a protector in society.
Security personnel earn a fair wage and go home each day knowing that they have provided value to their community. If this feels like something you would be interested in, take the first step of enrolling in Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) today. You can start online immediately, and earn your security license so you, too, can start to make money as a security guard in Alberta.