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If you’ve Googled “security guard job description,” you’ve probably seen the same generic bullet points copied across dozens of websites.
They tell you that guards “monitor premises” and “report incidents”—but they don’t teach you how to actually attract dependable, alert, and trustworthy security professionals who take pride in protecting people and property.
And that’s the real problem.
Because if you’re hiring someone to safeguard your business, your staff, or your customers, a lifeless job description won’t cut it. You’ll end up attracting low-effort applicants, wasting time, and risking a bad hire.
In this guide, we’re going to change that.
We’ll show you how to write a modern, clear, and compelling job post that speaks to the right candidates—whether you’re hiring for an experienced ex-military officer or someone you’re willing to train from scratch.
We’ll also break down:
- The core duties and skills required for the role
- What most companies get wrong when hiring guards
- Two ready-to-use templates (and one outdated version you should avoid)
- How to get better candidates using WorkScreen’s automated evaluation system
But first—if you haven’t yet read our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/., start there. It’ll show you why most job posts fail and how to make yours stand out with real-world clarity and human tone.
Smart Hiring Starts Here
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What A Security Guard Actually Does - Their Skills Explained
A security guard isn’t just someone who stands around “watching things.” At their best, they’re a calm, alert, and dependable presence—there to deter problems before they happen, respond when needed, and make everyone feel safer.
Whether stationed at a retail store, corporate office, construction site, or residential building, their role combines observation, prevention, communication, and trust. A great guard knows how to stay sharp during quiet moments and how to act quickly during stressful ones.
And it’s not just about protecting property. It’s about protecting people.
That means the best candidates bring more than just physical presence—they bring:
- Emotional control
- Situational awareness
- Clear communication
- Respect for protocol
- And a real sense of responsibility
This is a job where your candidate’s judgment, reliability, and attention to detail matter just as much as any previous experience.
So, if your job post only lists “patrol premises” and “write reports,” you’re not telling the full story—and you won’t attract the kind of person who takes this work seriously.
Two Great Security Guard Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Option 1: Security Guard – Experienced Hire
📌 Job Title: Experienced Security Guard Needed for Night Patrol (Commercial Sites – Houston, TX)
💼 Schedule: Full-Time | 9:00 PM – 5:00 AM | Monday–Friday
💵 Pay: $20–$24/hour (Based on experience)
🎥 Hear from Our Team
Want to know what it’s like working with us before you apply? Watch this short video from our security supervisor explaining what we’re looking for and what makes our team different:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube link]
🛡️ Who We Are
At Titan Property Group, we manage over 30 commercial properties across Houston. We take security seriously—not just for the buildings, but for the people who work in them. That’s why we’re looking for an experienced security professional who understands what it means to be trusted with safety.
🔍 Who We’re Looking For
We need someone who is alert, calm under pressure, and reliable every single shift. If you’ve worked in law enforcement, private security, or the military—or if you’ve spent years in a role where people’s safety depended on you—this job will feel familiar.
✅ What You’ll Do
- Patrol assigned commercial properties on foot and via vehicle
- Monitor entry/exit points, alarm systems, and security cameras
- Write accurate incident reports when needed
- Respond quickly and appropriately to disturbances or emergencies
- Maintain detailed logs during shifts
- Serve as a professional and reassuring presence for tenants and staff
🎯 Requirements
- 2+ years in security, law enforcement, or military
- Valid state security guard license
- Ability to remain alert during overnight shifts
- Professional communication and writing skills
- Must pass a background check and drug screening
✨ Why This Role Matters
You won’t be babysitting empty buildings—you’ll be the first line of response. Our clients count on us to keep their properties safe and problem-free. If you’re the type of person who shows up early, keeps calm under pressure, and takes pride in doing the job right—this role was made for you.
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate all candidates fairly and efficiently. Click the link below to apply and go through our simple evaluation process. We’ll get back to every applicant—and if you’re a good fit, we’ll move quickly.
👉 [Insert your WorkScreen application link]
✅ Option 2: Security Guard – Entry-Level / Will Train
📌 Job Title: Entry-Level Security Guard (We’ll Train You) – Day Shift, Retail Location
💼 Schedule: Full-Time or Part-Time | 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
💵 Pay: $16–$18/hour
🎥 Message From the Team
Meet our Site Manager and hear what it’s like to work here day-to-day—and why we’re excited to welcome someone new. Watch the short video here:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube link]
🏢 About Us
We’re SwiftGuard, a growing security provider focused on customer-facing environments like retail, healthcare, and hospitality. We believe that great guards don’t just protect—they bring calm, professionalism, and trust to every space they work in. Our mission is to create safe, respectful environments for clients and staff, and we take pride in developing guards who reflect that.
👋 About the Role
Want to get started in security? We’re hiring dependable, people-first candidates to protect one of our key retail locations. No experience? No problem. If you’re reliable, professional, and take pride in showing up—this could be a great fit.
🧠 What You’ll Do
- Greet customers and monitor the store entrance
- Deter theft and ensure safety without confrontation
- Walk the floor periodically and stay visible
- Report incidents calmly and clearly
- Communicate with store staff and security supervisors
🎓 What We’re Looking For
- High school diploma or GED
- Strong attention to detail and timekeeping
- Clean background check
- Customer-friendly attitude
- Willingness to learn and take direction
📈 What You’ll Gain
- Paid on-the-job training
- Stable hours and clear expectations
- Opportunities to grow into a supervisor role
- Experience in a high-responsibility, people-facing role
📥 How to Apply
We believe great security guards are built—not just found. That’s why we use WorkScreen.io to evaluate every candidate based on potential and reliability—not just past experience. Click the link below to get started.
👉 [Insert your WorkScreen application link]
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Why These Security Guard Job Posts Work
Most job descriptions fail because they’re vague, robotic, or copied from outdated HR templates. But these two examples work because they connect with real people, communicate expectations clearly, and reflect what the job actually is.
Here’s what they get right:
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Searchable
Instead of a vague “Security Officer Needed,” each title spells out:
- The type of guard (experienced or entry-level)
- The location or shift
- The tone of the job (e.g., “We’ll train you”)
This increases relevance, sets expectations, and improves search visibility.
✅ 2. There’s a Real Human Voice
The tone feels direct, respectful, and conversational—without being unprofessional. These job posts talk to the candidate, not at them. That alone helps the right applicants feel seen.
✅ 3. Videos Build Trust and Personality
Adding a short Loom or YouTube video from a hiring manager or site lead:
- Makes the company feel approachable
- Gives the candidate a better sense of the environment
- Creates instant emotional connection
Very few companies do this, so it’s a powerful differentiator.
✅ 4. “About Us” Tells a Story, Not Just a Timeline
Instead of saying, “We were founded in 2010 and serve 3 states,” the About Us sections highlight:
- The company’s mission
- The types of environments they protect
- The values they hire for
This helps candidates quickly assess alignment—especially those looking for meaning in their work.
✅ 5. The Responsibilities Show Impact, Not Just Tasks
Instead of listing dry bullets like “Write reports” or “Patrol the area,” these templates say things like:
“You’ll be the first line of response.”
“Help create a calm, safe environment.”
This gives purpose to the work—and purpose attracts better hires.
✅ 6. The Requirements Are Transparent and Encouraging
- Experienced version sets a clear bar
- Entry-level version is open, flexible, and reassuring
This combo helps you filter in the right candidates without scaring off good ones who just need a shot.
✅ 7. The Hiring Process Is Clear and Respectful
Mentioning WorkScreen.io signals that:
- Every applicant gets a fair evaluation
- You’re not ghosting candidates
- You’re using data—not guesswork—to make hiring decisions
This improves the candidate experience and positions your company as modern and trustworthy.
✅ 8. Each Post Ends With a Strong, Supportive CTA
Instead of a cold “Apply here,” the call-to-action:
- Explains why WorkScreen is part of the process
- Reinforces fairness, clarity, and speed
- Encourages action without pressure
Example of a Bad Security Guard Job Description (And Why It Fails)
Let’s look at a typical job post you might find online—and why it fails to attract top-tier candidates.
❌ Bad Job Post Example:
Job Title: Security Guard
Company: National Facilities Group
Location: Miami, FL
Job Type: Full-Time
Deadline: July 30, 2025
Job Summary
We are hiring a security guard to protect our property and assets. The ideal candidate will patrol the premises, monitor activity, and prevent any unauthorized entry.
Responsibilities
- Monitor premises
- Report suspicious activity
- Enforce site rules
- Respond to incidents
Requirements
- High school diploma
- 1+ years of experience
- Good communication skills
- Must be physically fit
How to Apply
Send your resume and cover letter to hr@nationalfacilities.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Short
1. The Job Title Is Generic and Flat
“Security Guard” with no context. No location relevance, no shift info, no specialization. This doesn’t help job seekers quickly understand what the role is or if they qualify.
2. The Intro Feels Cold and Vague
There’s no hook, no mission, and no real personality. It doesn’t tell you who this role is for or why it matters—just a dry summary.
3. No Culture or Team Info
The company gives zero insight into what it’s like to work there. No mention of values, tone, support, or team dynamics. It reads like they just want a body—not a team member.
4. The Responsibilities Are Copy-Paste Generic
“Monitor premises” and “Enforce site rules” could be taken from any guard post in any industry. It lacks the context, purpose, or impact that today’s applicants are looking for.
5. No Mention of Salary, Perks, or Schedule
This signals a lack of transparency, which immediately erodes trust. Serious candidates want to know what they’re walking into.
6. The Application Process Is Impersonal
Asking candidates to email a resume with “Only shortlisted will be contacted” creates a frustrating, outdated experience. There’s no feedback, no clarity, and no reason to feel optimistic.
7. No Human Touch or Visuals
No video from the hiring manager. No message from the team. No sign that anyone on the inside is involved or cares who applies. It feels like a checkbox, not a real opportunity.
Bottom Line?
This kind of job post will attract:
- Applicants who are mass applying to everything
- People who ignore the lack of clarity because they just need any job
- Low-effort submissions with little understanding of your expectations
You’ll spend more time filtering and less time interviewing real contenders.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Security Guard Job Post Stand Out
If you’ve followed the structure so far, your job post is already ahead of 90% of what’s out there.
But if you want to really stand out—and attract the kind of candidates who are thoughtful, committed, and selective—these final touches make all the difference:
✉️ 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice for Applicants
Scammers and shady recruiters are everywhere these days. Adding a quick line at the bottom of your post shows applicants that you care about their safety and builds trust immediately.
Example:
🔐 We take your privacy seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information at any stage of the hiring process.
🌴 2. Mention Time Off, Flex Days, or Schedule Stability
Security guard work can be physically and mentally taxing. Letting candidates know you offer real breathing room (even if it’s small) shows empathy and increases retention.
Example:
🌞 Enjoy up to 24 paid flex days per year—because rest is part of the job too.
Or:
📆 Stable shifts, consistent scheduling, and guaranteed hours—no last-minute surprises.
📚 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Whether you’re hiring entry-level or experienced guards, show them that this role is part of a bigger career path—not just a short-term gig.
Example:
🎓 We offer paid training, mentorship from site supervisors, and clear pathways to advance into leadership roles.
📹 4. Include a Loom or Team Video
This is one of the most overlooked but impactful additions to any job post. A simple 1–2 minute video from the hiring manager, team lead, or site supervisor:
- Humanizes your brand
- Creates emotional connection
- Improves application quality (because people feel more seen)
Pro tip: Keep it simple. A quick Loom video saying, “Hey, I’m Marcus, your future site manager. Here’s what I’m looking for and what you can expect,” is 10x more powerful than fancy editing.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
📝 5. Use Plain English, Not Corporate Buzzwords
Top candidates aren’t impressed by phrases like “stakeholder synergy” or “operational excellence.” Write like a human and explain things clearly.
Bad:
“The ideal candidate will leverage interpersonal acumen to enforce regulatory compliance.”
Better:
“We’re looking for someone who can stay calm, follow protocols, and help keep people safe.”
Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?
These days, almost every ATS or HR tool offers some form of “AI-generated job description.” And while it sounds like a time-saver, here’s the honest truth:
⚠️ AI can help you—but it can also hurt you if you use it wrong.
Let’s break it down:
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
If you just plug in a prompt like “Write me a job description for a security guard,” here’s what happens:
- You get bland, recycled content that’s already used across the web
- It fails to reflect your culture, tone, or expectations
- It attracts the wrong kind of candidates—those who mass apply without reading
- Worst of all? It reflects poorly on your company.
Your job post is often the first impression of your brand—and generic AI content makes it forgettable.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI
AI becomes powerful when you treat it like a writing assistant—not an autopilot.
Here’s how to get great results:
🔧 Step 1: Feed AI the Right Context
Before you ask for anything, gather a few key ingredients:
- What your company does
- What this role looks like day-to-day
- The tone you want (conversational, professional, people-first)
- Your mission and values
- What makes this role worth someone’s time
🗣️ Step 2: Give a Clear, Structured Prompt
Use this instead of a vague command:
“Help me write a job post for our company, [Company Name].
We’re hiring a [Job Title] to help with [Key Responsibilities].
Our culture is [Describe Company Culture], and we want to attract candidates who are [Traits].
We offer [Benefits] and pay [Salary Range].
Our hiring process is [Explain briefly].
Here’s a quick voice note I wrote to get started: [Insert tone notes or bullet points].”
This way, AI is working with your input—not guessing.
🧠 Pro Tip: Give AI a Style Example
You can also paste in one of the strong job posts (like the ones we shared above) and say:
“Make it sound more like this, but tailored to [our company/our role].”
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description Templates
We get it—sometimes you just need a job post fast.
Maybe you’ve already read this guide, understand what makes a great job post, and just need something solid you can drop into your hiring platform and tailor later.
That’s what these are.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
📌 Job Title: [Security Guard] for [Location/Site Type] – [Day/Night] Shift
💼 Schedule: [Full-Time or Part-Time] | [Shift Hours]
💵 Pay: [$XX–$XX/hour] | [Weekly/Monthly Pay Option]
🎥 Meet the Team
Before you apply, watch this short video from our site manager explaining what we’re looking for and why this role matters:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
🛡️ About the Role
You’ll be the go-to person for keeping [our property / our staff / our customers] safe, calm, and protected. This isn’t just a job where you “watch stuff.” It’s a role where your presence makes people feel secure and your judgment keeps things running smoothly.
🔍 Who This Is For
We’re looking for someone who’s:
- Alert and detail-oriented
- Calm under pressure
- Friendly but firm when needed
- Reliable—we mean really reliable
📋 What You’ll Do
- Patrol the site and stay visible
- Monitor entrances, exits, or cameras
- Write short, accurate incident reports if anything happens
- Work closely with our staff or tenants to create a calm, safe space
🎯 Requirements
- [1+ years of security experience] or willingness to train
- [Valid security license or willingness to obtain one]
- Must pass background check
- Able to work on your feet and stay focused
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate candidates quickly and fairly. Just click the link below to go through our fast application and screening process—we’ll follow up with everyone who applies.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link]
✅ Option 2: Structured Format (Traditional Style)
Job Title: Security Guard – [Retail Site / Corporate Office / Night Patrol]
Company: [Insert Company Name]
Location: [City, State]
Employment Type: [Full-Time / Part-Time]
Shift: [e.g. 9 PM – 5 AM, Mon–Fri]
Salary: [$XX–$XX/hour]
Job Summary
We are seeking a responsible and alert security guard to monitor and protect our premises. This role involves patrolling designated areas, responding to incidents, and serving as a visible, reassuring presence for staff and visitors.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct regular patrols (foot or vehicle)
- Monitor access points and surveillance systems
- Complete daily logs and incident reports
- Assist with emergencies and follow company protocol
- Provide professional communication with all personnel onsite
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED
- [1+ years experience in security or related field preferred]
- [Valid security guard license – if applicable in your state]
- Strong observation and communication skills
- Ability to stay alert during shifts (especially overnight)
Benefits
- [Paid training]
- [Uniforms provided]
- [Health benefits after X days]
- [Paid time off or flex days]
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to help us evaluate all applicants quickly and fairly. Click the link below to begin your application. You’ll be asked to complete a quick evaluation—we review every application and follow up with all candidates.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Hard Part After You Post
Writing a great job post is just the beginning. The real work?
Figuring out who’s actually qualified—and who’s just applying to everything.
That’s where WorkScreen.io gives you the edge.
Once your post is live, WorkScreen helps you:
🔍 Spot Top Talent—Fast
WorkScreen automatically evaluates applicants, scores them, and ranks them on a real-time performance-based leaderboard. No more endless resume sorting.
🧠 Test for Real-World Skills, Not Just Buzzwords
Resumes don’t tell you how alert, reliable, or detail-oriented someone is.
With WorkScreen, you can give candidates one-click skill tests based on real scenarios—so you can make hiring decisions based on ability, not assumptions.
🚫 Filter Out Low-Effort, AI-Generated, or Mass Applications
WorkScreen automatically detects and filters out low-effort candidates who:
- Copy-paste responses
- Use AI to game the system
- Mass apply with zero attention to detail
This way, you’re only talking to genuine, high-effort applicants who actually want the job.
💡 Bonus: It’s Easy, Fast, and Requires No Training
You’ll get a link to share across job boards, social media, and even referrals.
Candidates apply, WorkScreen evaluates, and you move straight to interviewing the top performers.
👉 Ready to stop guessing and start hiring smarter?
Sign up at WorkScreen.io and take your job post live in minutes.
Let the system do the heavy lifting—so you can focus on hiring right, fast, and with confidence.
Security Guard Job Description - Frequently Asked Questions
As of 2025, the average hourly wage for a security guard in the U.S. ranges between $15–$20/hour, depending on location, experience, and the nature of the assignment.
- Retail or event security guards often earn on the lower end ($14–$17/hour)
- Corporate, government, or overnight roles typically pay higher ($18–$22/hour)
- Armed security guards or those with specialized training may earn $25/hour or more
Always check local pay benchmarks to ensure your compensation is competitive and aligned with the role’s risk level and responsibilities.
Yes—most U.S. states require security guards to have a valid license or registration.
Licensing requirements vary by state and may include:
- Background checks
- Completion of certified training programs
- Fingerprinting
- Application fees
Some states also differentiate between armed and unarmed guard licenses. If you’re hiring for a licensed role, mention it clearly in the job post—and whether you’ll help candidates get certified.
Absolutely—as long as you’re prepared to train them. Many companies prefer to hire for attitude and train for skill, especially for entry-level roles.
Look for traits like:
- Reliability
- Communication
- Awareness
- Professionalism
If you provide proper onboarding and supervision, entry-level candidates can become some of your most loyal and dependable team members.
The best way is to go beyond the resume. With WorkScreen.io, you can:
- Test candidates for alertness, scenario handling, and time management
- Automatically score their responses and compare them on a performance-based leaderboard
- Identify serious applicants and filter out low-effort submissions
This saves you time and helps ensure you’re hiring based on real-world ability, not just polished applications.
Here are five quick wins:
- Use a clear, specific job title (mention shift, environment, or location)
- Be transparent about pay, expectations, and scheduling
- Add a short video message from your team or manager
- Include language that shows respect for the role (not just tasks)
- Use tools like WorkScreen to create a fair, fast application process
When candidates feel informed, respected, and fairly evaluated—they show up stronger.
