Becoming a security guard in Canada can be rewarding, but it requires specific qualifications and steps. This blog post covers everything you need to know about becoming a security guard in Canada, including requirements, training, licensing tests, challenges, and career advancement opportunities.
Keep reading to find out about a potential new career opportunity.
Basic Requirements For Becoming a Security Guard in Canada
To become a security guard in Canada, you must fulfill the basic requirements:
- You must be at least 18 and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- A clean criminal record is essential.
- Completion of a certified training program covering various aspects of the role.
- A passing grade on the security guard licensing test.
Importance of Training Prior To Becoming a Security Guard
Training is essential for security guards. It ensures trainees have the necessary skills and professionalism for the role. Programs emphasize the importance of ethical conduct, responsibility, and customer service. Training equips guards with tools to handle emergencies effectively and interact positively with the general public.
A reputable security company employee should possess the following:
- Strong communication
- Attention to detail
- Team player mentality
- People skills
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving ability
- First-aid and CPR training
- Level 5 fluency in English for certain roles (based on the Centre for Canadian Language Benchmarks standard)
Understanding The Security Guard Licensing Test
To become a security guard in Canada, you must pass a licensing test. The exam includes multiple-choice questions on security procedures, laws, and ethics. Study resources from the Canadian Academy of Guard Training are available to help.
If you don’t pass on your first attempt, you can retake it after a set waiting period.
How To Apply For a Security Guard License
Different provinces have different rules. In British Columbia, you take a Basic Security Training exam in order to receive your BST certificate. You’ll need this to attain your Security Worker Licence, which takes approximately two months to receive after you apply.
Pros And Cons of Being a Security Guard
Being a security guard in Canada has its pros and cons. On the positive side, it’s a fulfilling career that allows you to make a difference and work in an exciting field. The stability and career progression opportunities are also advantages. Even in hard times, there will always be a need for security professionals.
However, there are drawbacks to consider. Providing full-time security for commercial buildings and strata properties is a big responsibility. It demands efficient processes and good people.
Security guards often work irregular hours, which can disrupt their personal lives. The job can be physically demanding, and security staff may encounter challenging situations where they must rely on their training and skills.
Despite these challenges, being a security guard in Canada offers the chance for a stable career and opportunities for advancement. Other related jobs include:
- Crowd control and event security
- Armoured car guards
- Corporate security
- Loss prevention
- Private investigation
- Law enforcement positions
How Does Missing Link Security Stand Out?
Missing Link Security stands out from the pack with our commitment to professionalism, comprehensive training, and customized solutions tailored to each client’s needs.
When we bring on new staff, we ensure they meet our high standards.
Whether you’re looking for work or require experienced security in and around Kelowna, Missing Link Security should be your first point of contact.
Missing Link Security offers a range of security services for buildings in the Kelowna, BC, area. We provide:
- Mobile patrols
- Security consultations
- Towing, ticketing
- On-site enforcement of strata council bylaws
- Daily activity reports
- perimeter guarding
- Interior checks
- Testing of gates, doors
- Inspecting windows
- And more
Trust us to protect your property and maintain order.
Contact Missing Link in Kelowna
At Missing Link Security in Kelowna, BC, we specialize in delivering peace of mind.
If you’re serious about security, we’re always on the lookout for promising new recruits. We provide the best service, because we hire the best people.
Contact Missing Link Security in Kelowna today to learn more about what we offer.