You may have come to this blog because
you are new to the security industry and need some guidance. That is
why I made this blog was to help others avoid the pitfalls of the
security industry. As a security officer I feel like a nomad not
staying with a position long enough to grow roots with a company.
And, why is that? Its because we are always looking for better.
Better hours, Pay, and a job with benefits. You may have heard the
terms “in-house security” and “contract security” work. What
are they and what is the difference? Which is better? What do they
have to offer?
What are “in-house security” and
“contract security” jobs? In house security controlled entirely
by the company establishing security for its operations. Contract
security services are operations that are provided by a professional
security company that contracts its services to a company. For
example, NYU Security guards work directly for NYU, they are in
house. Most hotels and, universities have in-house security.
Contract security companies are companies like Allied Barton,
Securitas, FJC, etc.
In house security jobs usually pay more
and better benefits than contract security. To get an in house
security job you need to be more qualified. These are sometimes
unionized. You will need at least 2 to 3 years experience and a high
school diploma. You might want to get your fireguard license as well.
You have more responsibility at these jobs. You will get treated like
a total asshole if you mess up slightly.
Contract security usually means you
have to eat shit for less money. Contract security companies use you
to make them money so the less they pay you the more they profit. For
example they charge the client like $40 a guard but pay you $9 and
don't give you health or anything. To save even more money they hire
more guards so no one gets 40hrs and they make sure you do not get
paid for lunch so you will get paid 7 hrs a day. That is if you are
lucky to get a lunch. You will get treated like a total asshole of
the bat. There will be times that you will get stuck working over 16
hours because someone will have had enough and quit or have gotten
fired.
No matter who you work for just know
security is the red headed step child. Even though we are expected to
fight Al Queada and prevent the apocalypse you will always be a low
priority. At least with in house you get compensated better. So
always aim for in house security. Contract work is only good to gain
experience. So keep your eyes open and improve your skills and get
those certifications. If you dont have you diploma get your GED it
will help you out. As always strive to be better.
