To become a facility security officer, one needs a clean background, a high school diploma, security officer training, an exam, and certification. Most facilities require a drug test and knowledge of laws before starting the role.
A career as a facility security officer is ideal for anyone who enjoys protecting others and maintaining order. Individuals in this profession can work in many places such as hospitals, malls and museums. To become a facility security officer, there are a few steps required. This includes having a clean background, finishing high school, attending security officer training, taking an exam, and earning certification. Once these actions have been taken, it should be possible for most people to become employed.
Before taking any steps to become a facility security officer, it is crucial that an individual has a clean criminal record. While having a simple misdemeanor does not automatically disqualify a person, having any serious crimes on your record such as a felony will. In fact, most people must pass a background check and be fingerprinted before receiving any formal training.
Another necessary part of joining this career is graduating from high school. While most companies don’t require any college degrees, nearly all require security officers to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Having a job proves that a person has the fundamental skills needed for the job.
It is also necessary to attend formal training to become a facility security officer. The duration and length of training will vary depending on a person’s location and facility, but most courses are between 20 and 40 hours in length. During this time, an individual will learn information such as safety basics, laws, safety issues, and responsibilities. If a weapon is carried at work, a person will also need to be trained.
After completing initial training, most people must take an exam. Exam questions are typically multiple choice and differ depending on facility and location. Exams generally cover material learned during training and anything else the facility deems necessary. Along with this, some facilities may also require a person to undergo some physical tests in order to become a facility security officer. Passing these tests proves that an individual is knowledgeable, able to diffuse dangerous situations, and physically capable of performing the job.
Additionally, most facilities require security officers to be certified prior to starting the role. This often includes taking a drug test and demonstrating knowledge of laws, property rights and legal issues surrounding arresting intruders. Once this certificate is obtained, a person can officially become a facility security officer.
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