How to Get a Security Job in CO
If you’re in the market for a new job, or a change in careers, considering a work opportunity in the Colorado security sector is a great idea. Due to the nature of security jobs, it’s not just a great option for a professional career but also for part-time employment. Flexible hours and opportunities for advancement make security jobs an ideal option for current job seekers. It’s an unfortunate reality that in today’s world we're constantly confronted by dangers and threats. However, it is primarily this reality that has created a popular demand for bright and motivated minds to select a career in security.
Types of security jobs:
- Homeland security
- Private investigator
- Security guard
- Surveillance officer
- Environmental security
Education & Requirements for a Security Job in Colorado
When thinking about a security job, variety is the name of the game. There are many security jobs in a range of industries. Additionally, certain Colorado security jobs require minimal education while some demand a Bachelor’s degree at the very least; you will find something out there for everyone.
Colorado require that public or private sector guards become licensed before they can be hired. Obtaining licensing generally consists of classroom training. Topics covered range from weapons training to detention of suspects.
A growing trend, many colleges now offer specialized degree programs in certain security related fields. What’s so encouraging about these programs is they are tailored to help graduates find employment and prepare students for higher-level positions. Depending on the niche within the security job market you wish to get into, different requirements are needed. However, nearly all security jobs prefer an applicant with a high school degree. Other skills and assets include:
- Computer literacy
- Physical fitness
- Strategical and analytical thinker
- Specialized education in your individual field (many hiring organizations provide on-the-job training).
- Prior work experience
- Familiarity with current technologies utilized in the field
- Familiarity with local Colorado laws
- Tactful under pressure
- Pass a background, drug and screening test (which can take up to 6 months to 1 year)
- Creativity
- CPP – Certified Protection Professional certification. Though not required, this certifies that an person is trained and skilled in their service.
What Do Security Jobs in Colorado Entail?
Despite what many people assume, the breadth of security jobs demands a variety of different tasks to be performed daily, with regards to the particular sub-sector you work for. It's an advantage that the field offers, allowing persons of varying educational and occupational backgrounds to apply their skills accordingly. Colorado banks, casinos, retail stores and bars are popular facilities that need constant surveillance and protection.
With regards to Homeland Security jobs, areas include border and transportation, information analysis and chemical/biological/radiological/nuclear countermeasures. Though most of the skills necessary are similar, regardless of the sub-sector, the daily tasks demanded of you is dependent upon your area of employment.
Security Job Opportunities in Colorado
It’s no real shock that the outlook for the security job industry is very positive. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the security sector there are and will continue to be excellent job opportunities available in Colorado. Airport security is a specifically fast-growing area, but overall increased concerns with security threats means continued development in the industry.