Are you seeking a security guard job that involves helping and protecting others? If so, becoming a security guard in Calgary is a great career path to pursue. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 19% growth in the overall number of security guard job openings in 2020.
Security guards earn a yearly wage of approximately $19,640 at the 10th percentile to $48,370 at the 90th percentile. This gives an hourly wage of $9.44 to $23.26. The security guard job market offers a wide array of opportunities for those willing to follow the requirements set by the state of Alberta.
Whether you plan to become a personal protection officer or obtain a concealed weapons permit, your training and certifications will be fundamental in preparing you to become a safe and effective security guard. A List Security Calgary requires the following training and certification for acquiring a security guard license, also known as a “guard card.”
Here are some basic requirements that are needed to put your plan into action and become a certified security guard in Calgary:
To obtain a security guard license, applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
Applicants are encouraged to apply for licensure at training facilities or private patrol operators certified by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). You can find more information on BSIS-approved training locations here.
Each applicant must pass a detailed criminal history background check conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and BSIS.
First-time applicants must complete an 8-hour “Power to Arrest” training course and pass an examination at the end of the period with a 100% score following the Manual’s Administering Instructions. The security guard training company providing the training will issue a Certificate of Completion to the trainee applicant.
Applicants must submit their fingerprints using Live Scan (which sends them to the Department of Justice for verification) and their application and Automated Transaction Identifier (ATI) number.
Once applicants pass the background check, they can start working as security guards immediately upon receiving an interim license.
Selected applicants must have another 16 hours of security training from a state-certified security guard training company within 30 days of receiving the interim license.
Within the first six months of receiving the provisional license, they must complete an additional 16 hours of training in security officer skills.
The security license can be revoked if the 32 hours of training are not completed in the given time frame.
Carrying a firearm is part of the job to protect. To achieve a firearm permit, all applicants need to take these additional steps of training and certification:
Applicants must pass a 14-hour BSIS-certified Exposed Firearm Permit course on the carrying and use of firearms and pass the exams at the end of the system.
All of the applicants must request a firearm permit application and send it to the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services.
Selected applicants must have another 16 hours of security training from a state-certified security guard training company within 30 days of receiving the interim license.
Security guards must have valid security guard registration and a valid photo I.D. while on duty.
Applicants are encouraged to apply for licensure at training facilities or private patrol operators certified by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). You can find more information on BSIS-approved training locations here.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), approximately 667,940 individuals are working in Investigation and Security Services in the United States.
Will you be the next hire? By fulfilling the procedures above will lead you to an enriching and fulfilling career as a mobile security guard in Calgary to provide mobile security services in Calgary. Just think, you’re one step closer to becoming a certified security guard in Alberta, licensed to protect and serve.
