Retail Security Officer Careers

Retail stores spend many millions of dollars each year on inventory and other assets that they hope to use to make a profit. Unfortunately, due to theft, damage and other incidents, losses occur, costing firms a lot of money. Further, accidents happen, which require personnel to maintain a safe environment in the establishment. The best way retail establishments have to prevent these losses is with trained security personnel.

The types of security personnel needed by retail stores depends to a large degree on the type of merchandise they carry and the way they conduct business.

Many businesses, for example, carry high priced goods, such as jewelry, which requires that security personnel interact closely with customers and store employees to prevent theft. After hours, these businesses might require additional security personnel who will be responsible for patrolling the store’s grounds to prevent break-ins, arson, and other illegal activities. Further, whether a business operates around the clock or more limited business hours, security personnel are used to prevent loss and damage.

Depending on the circumstances, security work can be dangerous, but the primary responsibly of a retail security officer is to prevent damage and loss, as well as to observe and report suspicious activity for their employer as well as other authorities.

The earnings of retail security officers can vary widely, from stationary guards with responsibilities that entail mainly visual deterrence, to highly trained and specialized officers who are also often required to carry and be proficient in the use of weapons and other equipment. Fortunately, with these increased responsibilities and required training comes an increase in pay.

Pay also varies widely. In general, retail security officers make an average of $21,530 in 2009. This takes into account the salaries of all security officers, from those who work for retail firms to those employed by private firms that hire their personnel out to stores that employ them.

The security profession offers considerable room for advancement. In many cases, security officers are employed not by the store themselves, but rather by the shopping complex or mall. Officers often start at a junior-level and with odd hours, but longevity and persistence often means advancement to higher levels of responsibility and rewards