Florida offers an abundance of opportunities in the security sector, whether you’re just starting out or you're an experienced security guard seeking new prospects. Once you've earned your FL security license, the real quest begins - finding the best company to work for. To simplify your search, we've compiled a list of some of the top security guard companies in Florida, outlining their specialties, locations, and more.
Types of Security Guard Jobs in Florida
Before diving into your job hunt, consider what type of security guard position you prefer. There are various roles available, each carrying its own unique set of responsibilities:
- Unarmed Security Guard: Mainly tasked with monitoring and patrolling designated areas to prevent theft, violence, and other security breaches.
- Armed Security Guard: Authorized to carry firearms and use them when necessary to protect individuals and property. Armed guards generally receive higher pay than their unarmed counterparts.
- Event Security Guard: Responsible for ensuring order and safety at events such as concerts, sports games, and conferences. Event security guards can be either armed or unarmed.
- Corporate Security Guard: Hired by corporations to protect their facilities, employees, and assets from potential threats.
- Government Security Guard: Work for government agencies to safeguard people and property from security threats.
- Residential Security Guard: Ensures the safety and security of residential complexes, individual homes, neighborhoods, and more.
- School Security Guard: Maintain the safety and security of students, staff, and visitors at both public and private educational institutions.
- Retail Security Guard: Employed by retail establishments to prevent shoplifting, monitor security cameras, and respond to potential security breaches.
Learn more: How to Become a Security Guard in Florida: A Comprehensive Guide to Getting Your FL Security License
Top Security Guard Companies in Florida
Here are some of the most reputable security guard companies in Florida, all actively hiring qualified security guards:
- Allied Universal: With over 60 years in business, this company offers security professionals positions in most states, making it an excellent choice for those starting their security career.
- Garda World: A global leader offering a wide range of security services and opportunities, ideal for those seeking to maintain their security career in Florida or interested in global opportunities.
- Prosegur: Operating in over 31 countries offering security, technology solutions, global risk assessments, remote protective services, cybersecurity, and hybrid security.
- Metro One LPSG: A national company offering services in logistics, supply chain, fulfillment centers, manufacturing sites, corporate headquarters and data centers. Their geographic scope spans the entire United States, serving over 125 national clients in different industries.
- S1 Security Group: A full-service security company offering customizable security services to include on-site and asset protection. Their expertise includes experienced professional officers with law enforcement and military background
- Jet Security Pros: A US Veteran-owned company offering both armed and unarmed security guard services, focusing on crime suppression through a strong visual presence.
- All Florida Security: A family-owned business that provides a broad spectrum of services such as armed and unarmed security, investigations, bail bonds, and firearms training.
- Kentauros Team Security Services: Highly rated for their good work ethic, they offer services including private security, commercial and residential security, and patrols.
- Signal Security Services: A national franchise with several locations in Florida, known for blending technology with their patrol and custom security services.
- XpressGuards: Operating nationally, XpressGuards provides ample opportunities for security professionals, serving multiple businesses throughout Florida with their armed, unarmed, and vehicle patrol security services.
How to Find Security Guard Jobs in Florida
In addition to private security companies, several other establishments hire security guards:
- Churches
- Schools
- Malls
- Office Buildings
- Bars/Nightclubs
- Banks
- Casinos
A simple internet search or checking out the National Investigative Training Academy’s job board can reveal a multitude of opportunities. These establishments may contract out security or hire their own in-house guards.
Learn more: Proprietary Security vs. Contract Security
What to Expect as a Security Guard in Florida
Remember, before applying for any security guard position, ensure you have your license. Following the state laws to obtain a Class D Security Officer License before applying will increases your chances of landing a security guard position. The job opportunities in Florida and nationwide are extensive, and a well-directed search can lead you to the ideal position.
Common duties of a security guard include:
- Report writing
- Surveillance
- Patrol
- Guarding designated areas
Learn more: Security Guard Duties and Responsibilities
FL Security Guard Salary Expectations and Working Hours
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average national wage for security guards is $16 to $17 per hour. In Florida, this average falls between $12 to $17 per hour, depending on the security job type and the job's location within the state.
Learn more: Florida Security Guard Salary Guide: Armed vs. Unarmed
Security work often offers flexibility in terms of working hours. For 24-hour facilities, you can usually choose between day, midday, or night shifts. For schools or churches, working hours usually align with operational hours.
Improving Your Employment Prospects
To increase your chances of landing a job, consider widening your search to include hotels, commercial businesses, residential areas, and other establishments like churches or schools. You’ll also want to polish up your resume and be sure to check out our list of security guard interview questions and answers.
Furthering your security guard training can also broaden your knowledge and skillset, enhancing your appeal to potential employers.
The National Investigative Training Academy (NITA) job board offers excellent resources, including nationwide job listings and training opportunities to help achieve your career goals in security.
Ready to Take the Next Step
Starting or advancing your career as a security guard in Florida is just a few clicks away. Choose NITA as your trusted partner and receive the necessary training supported by a world-class team of instructors, become part of a community of other security professionals, and find your new dream job. We’re ready to help you succeed.
View course: Florida Security D Training →
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