Navigating the Safety and Security Industry: A Career Guide for security guards in South Africa

Exploring Career Opportunities for Security Guards and Officers in South Africa.

The security industry plays a vital role in safeguarding people, assets, and information across various sectors in South Africa.

According to a 2023 industry report by SASSETA (the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority), the private security industry in South Africa employs over 550,000 active private security officers, making it one of the largest employers in the country.

While the security industry encompasses a wide range of roles, including cybersecurity experts, threat assessors, and investigators, this article focuses specifically on the opportunities available for security guards and officers in South Africa.

The Importance of Security Guards and Officers

Security guards and officers are the backbone of the security industry, responsible for monitoring and protecting facilities, businesses, and communities.

Their presence serves as a deterrent against criminal activities and ensures the safety of individuals and property.

The security industry recognizes the crucial role played by skilled and qualified security officers. By investing in their training and development, organizations can benefit from a more professional and competent security workforce.

It’s also been noted that the more skilled the security officer, the higher the earning potential:

The average salary of a security officer increases by 23% with a formal qualification [According to SASSETA’s 2022 Security Sector Skills Plan].

But how does someone break into the field and build a successful security career?

The main steps are getting the right certifications and training.

This develops technical skills plus soft skills like communication, empathy, and staying calm under pressure. People with background in law enforcement or the military can often switch over with some prep too.

What are the Career Paths for Security Guards and Officers?

The security industry offers various career paths for security guards and officers in South Africa.

Some of the common roles include:

1. Commercial and Residential Security Guards: These professionals are responsible for patrolling and monitoring residential and commercial properties.
2. Retail Security Officers: Employed by shopping malls, retail stores, and other commercial establishments, these officers prevent theft, maintain order, and ensure a safe shopping environment for customers and employees.
3. Event Security: Providing security services for concerts, sports events, conferences, and other large gatherings, event security officers are responsible for crowd control, access management, and maintaining a secure environment.

Corporate Security Officers: Large corporations and organizations often employ their own security teams to protect their premises, employees, and sensitive information.
Security Supervisors and Managers: Experienced security guards and officers may advance to supervisory or managerial roles, overseeing teams of security personnel and coordinating security operations.

In short, security teams work everywhere valuable assets and information need protection. This field is dynamic and multifaceted, and there are roles suited to different skills and interests.

Training and Qualifications for Security Guards.

To pursue a career as a security guard or officer in South Africa, individuals typically need to meet the following requirements:

Complete a recognized security training course, such as the Security Officers’ Grade E or D courses.

Advance your knowledge + people skills with a Safety and Security Management course.

Obtain the necessary licenses and registrations from the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA).

Additionally, pursuing further education and certifications can enhance career prospects and open up opportunities for advancement.

Study with Academy of York: View our Safety and Security Management Course here >

Tips for growing your skillset in the Safety and Security industry:

Now that you know more about the roles available to you. If you want to make an impact in the industry, you’ll need to grow your skillset.

While certifications and degrees are essential foundations, complementary skills can set you apart.

- Physical fitness: the ability to perform physical tasks such as patrolling, restraining, or chasing
- Communication Skills: being able to communicate with your team + clients is critical. This includes verbal + written communication.
- Attention to detail: the ability to notice and monitor any suspicious or unusual activity
- Customer service: Being able to interact with clients (and the public in general) in a polite and professional manner
- Critical thinking: the ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently, and to follow instructions
- Technical knowledge: You may need to operate security systems and equipment, such as detectors, cameras, or alarms
- Interpersonal skills: the ability to work well with others, and to handle conflicts or emergencies calmly and reasonably

With the right mix of technical and people skills, you can propel your career forward.

Tips for Choosing the Right Certification

Here are 3 tips to consider when choosing the right certification for you:

1. Align with your career goals

Choose a course, program or certification that matches the role you want to get. Ensure that the program has depth + covers the things you want to learn. We also highly recommend that you make sure that the course is accredited / verified (our Safety and Security Management Course is verified through SAIOSH).

2. Prioritize hands-on learning:

The Programs you’re looking at, should offer lots of real world examples – whether it’s through simulations, case studies, or role plays.

Added to this, if you can get exposure to internships + simulations – it will provide you with real-world experience and skills application

3. Research carefully!

Factor in time commitments, exam difficulty, prerequisites, accreditation, and budget/value when researching programs. More affordable options can still deliver quality preparation

When choosing the right safety and security certification for you, make sure that it aligns to where you want to go (and is accredited), that you get the valuable hands on experience, and that it fits into both your time + budget.

“I have improved now with the certificate I got,

I even got promoted to the third level of my posistion.”

Mnqobi Ntuthuko Mhlongo

The Value of Security Guards and Officers

While the security industry continues to evolve with the integration of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and advanced surveillance systems, the role of security guards and officers remains indispensable.

They serve as the first line of defense, providing a visible deterrent and responding to potential threats or emergencies.

Furthermore, the demand for skilled and well-trained security personnel is expected to grow as businesses and communities prioritize safety and security measures.

Final thoughts:

In conclusion, the security industry in South Africa offers a range of rewarding career opportunities for those interested in pursuing roles as security guards and officers. With the right training, qualifications, and dedication, individuals in these roles can make a significant contribution to the safety and security of our communities.

If you’re interested in pursuing this meaningful and engaging career path, the Academy of York has a Safety and Security Management Course to get you where you want to go.

The next big career leap you’ve been striving for could be just one certification away!