64410 – Security guards and related security service occupations

Lead statement

Security guards guard property against theft and vandalism, control access to establishments, maintain order and enforce regulations at public events and within organizations or areas.

Main duties

• 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.
• Drive and guard armoured trucks, pick-up and deliver cash and valuables to banks, automated teller machines and retail establishments.
• Investigate unlawful acts of employees or patrons of establishments
• Recommend security systems such as electronic detection devices and access devices.
• Conduct investigations to locate missing persons
• Obtain information for use in civil and criminal litigation matters or for other purposes
• May also conduct polygraph tests (integrity surveys) for clients.
• Prevent and detect shoplifting and theft in retail establishments.

Employment requirements

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

Example job titles

bodyguard (except police) · armed security guard · security screening officer · security screening guard · screening officer · airport security guard · armoured car driver · armoured car guard · corporate security officer · private security officer · security consultant (except computer systems) · security specialist (except computer systems) · private detective · private investigator · polygraph operator · theft prevention officer · store detective · retail loss investigator

Wages (per hour)

Source: Job Bank wages, 2025 release (ESDC). Low and high are the 10th and 90th percentiles.