Security Supervisors
Overview
Security supervisors lead teams of security guards and manage safety operations at various locations like offices, malls, or events. They coordinate patrols, respond to emergencies, investigate incidents, and use modern security technology like surveillance cameras, access control systems, and alarm monitoring software. This role requires strong leadership skills, quick decision-making abilities, and often involves collaborating with law enforcement and emergency services. Many security supervisors start as security guards and advance through experience, with opportunities for certification programs and criminal justice education.
Did you know?
Obtaining industry-recognized certifications like CISSP, CISM, or CISA is highly valued by American employers and often required for senior security leadership positions.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$58,578.24 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Operations Analysis
Key Responsibilities
- Call police or fire departments in cases of emergency, such as fire, bomb threats, and presence of unauthorized persons.
- Schedule training or drills for emergencies, such as fires, bombs, and other threats.
- Write reports documenting observations made while on patrol.
- Screen individuals and belongings to prevent passage of prohibited materials using walkthrough detectors, wands, or bag searches.
- Assign security personnel to posts or patrols.
- Advise employees in handling problems or resolving complaints from customers, tenants, detainees, or other persons.
- Recruit, interview, and hire security personnel.
- Write and present department budgets to upper management or other stakeholders.
- Inspect and adjust security equipment to ensure it is operational or to detect evidence of tampering.
- Apprehend or evict trespassers, rule violators, or other security threats from the premises.
- Investigate disturbances on the premises, such as security alarms, altercations, and suspicious activity.
- Monitor and authorize entry of employees, visitors, or other persons.
- Log items distributed to persons, such as keys and key cards.
- Secure entrances and exits by locking doors and gates.
- Develop and document security procedures, policies, or standards.
- Patrol the premises to prevent or detect intrusion, protect property, or preserve order.
- Monitor the behavior of security employees to ensure adherence to quality standards, deadlines, or procedures.
- Explain company policies and procedures to staff using oral or written communication.
- Train security personnel on protective procedures, first aid, fire safety, and other duties.
- Monitor closed-circuit television cameras.
- Order materials or supplies, such as keys, uniforms, and badges.
Career Considerations
Professional Certifications
Obtaining industry-recognized certifications like CISSP, CISM, or CISA is highly valued by American employers and often required for senior security leadership positions.
Leadership and Management Skills
Developing strong people management capabilities is essential as the role involves leading technical teams, managing budgets, and communicating security strategies to executive leadership.
Regulatory Compliance Knowledge
Understanding US-specific regulations such as SOX, HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and state privacy laws is crucial for ensuring organizational compliance and avoiding costly penalties.