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Security Guards and Officers

Security guards and officers are the frontline protectors of people and property across the UK. With a growing emphasis on safety and security in various sectors, this career path offers dynamic opportunities for those eager to make a difference. Whether patrolling a bustling shopping centre or monitoring a corporate office, security professionals play a crucial role in maintaining peace and order.

Security Guards and Officers

Security & Emergency Services

AI IMPACT

AI EXPOSURE TODAY8

20-YEAR SCENARIO
NOT A FORECAST48%

THE DOOR · ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAYB

STARTING PAY£20,000 - £25,000

REGULATORY MOATThe law requires human oversight. That human could be you.

THE DOOR: ENTRY DIFFICULTY TODAY, graded A (easy) to E (extremely hard). A Careermash rule-of-thumb index built from our AI exposure index and the job's moat class. It is not a forecast and not a count of job openings.

AI EXPOSURE TODAY is a Careermash index from 0 to 100 of how exposed this job's everyday tasks are to AI today. We estimate it by matching published research on how people use AI to this job, usually by keyword or subject area, and we lower it where the work is protected (for example by physical, personal or legal requirements). It is not a direct measurement of how much people in this job use AI.

This job holds up well against AI

AI exposure today is low on our index (8), and the law requires human oversight. That human could be you. That is about as safe as careers get right now, though it is still worth learning to use the tools well.

Career progression path

1FIRST STEPJunior Security OfficerAs a Junior Security Officer, you will begin your career by learning the ropes of security operations. Your focus will be on patrolling and monitoring assigned areas, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and assisting in incident response.£20,000 - £25,000

2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-Level Security SupervisorIn a Mid-Level Security Supervisor role, you will oversee a team of security personnel, ensuring effective operations and training new recruits. You will also be responsible for incident management and liaising with clients to enhance security measures.£26,000 - £30,000

3PEAK CAREERSenior Security ManagerAs a Senior Security Manager, you will develop and implement security strategies across multiple sites. Your role will involve high-level decision-making, budget management, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies to ensure comprehensive security solutions.£35,000+

Real apprenticeship standards

Live UK apprenticeship standards that lead into this career, from the Institute for Apprenticeships register.

L2Professional security operative12 months typicalnot published

There is more than one way in

You do not have to go the university route to get here. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely. Some employers will take you on here with no formal qualifications at all, if you can show you can do the work.