Should I Become a Security Guard as a Student in Alberta?
November 30, 2024 Alberta Security Hub Staff
Looking to work part-time as a student? Working as a security guard may be the right fit for you in today's competitive job market, see more below:
As a student, your work will likely revolve around asset protection, or observing and reporting. This can involve patrols of sites, or monitoring CCTV feeds. As you progress in your career, you may be able to pursue other roles, such as becoming a mobile supervisor if you have your Drivers License. Observation and communication Skills are key to your success as a guard. While you may not have to interact with others on the job to the same extent as a police officer would, you will be the eyes and ears on the site if something were to come up. This includes creating logs and reports of ocurrences on site.
You have most likely seen security guards everywhere, including malls, airports, hospitals, transit stations and more. You have the potential to foster a positive impact on these spaces while building interpersonal skills. Suppose you prefer less face-to-face interaction while on duty. A position in a less high-profile setting may be more up your alley, such as in locations with low foot traffic, or observing through the CCTV system. Being a security guard is a great choice for both individuals who do or don't prefer face-to-face interaction on the job. Depending on the site, your pay may change accordingly. Some employers also offer one-time signup bonuses. On the topic of wages, the overall average hourly wage in Alberta is $20.09. You can find many positions that offer over minimum wage, making it an appealing field to work in as a student. To learn more about wages, click here: https://albertasecurityhub.ca/posts/security-guard-wages-alberta.php.
To become a security guard in Alberta, you will be well prepared by taking an approved Training Course, completing the provincial exam, and applying for your security license. Contrary to requirements in other provinces, guards in Alberta are not required to possess First Aid/CPR Training, though it can be an asset to some employers. With many students having prior work experience in customer service, such experience is typically sufficient to become a guard - prior Experience in the security industry is not always mandatory.
With your Alberta security license, you can apply for any security guard position in Alberta. Being a student, it may be difficult to find a shift that works for your schedule. While you may be able to find causal positions, it may be necessary to work for More Than One Employer. If you aspire to work in law enforcement or policing in the future, it can be beneficial to up build experience as a security guard, see more Here.
