What is a security officer vs. security guard?

Are you wondering what the difference is between a security officer vs. security guard? While some may use these titles interchangeably, the roles have different responsibilities and requirements. We break down the differences here!

If you’re looking into security jobs, start by learning the differences between a security officer vs. security guard.

Security staff keep assets and facilities safe from potential security threats, such as burglaries, theft, vandalism and trespassing. The main difference between a security officer vs. security guard is that, generally, the former is a higher-level position with more authority, and the latter is an entry-level job.

General security staff’s primary responsibilities  are to detect, deter, observe and report potential theft or transgressions. However, the duties depend on their level within the security company. Let’s break down detect, deter, observe and report a little more:

• Detect: To notice potential security risks.
• Deter: To discourage criminals by being present.
• Observe: To keep an eye on a location, facility or event, whether in person or via security cameras.
• Report: To call for backup or law enforcement when appropriate.

Security staff may also respond to alarms and write reports. They may stay primarily in one location (sometimes called a “fixed post”) or be on mobile patrol (for example, by car) or foot patrol.

They might focus more on preventing crimes, which is called proactive security. Others respond to crimes, such as dispatching to an alarm, which is called reactive security. Some guards do both proactive and reactive security.

Guards often report to an officer or a more senior position. Officers have similar responsibilities, but they might also manage security procedures and staff. They may create safety protocols and other plans to deter crime. They are also responsible for training security staff.

Officers might plan and implement training drills, such as active shooter drills, and develop strategies for how to deal with other emergencies. They may also be in touch with law enforcement as needed. They might, for example, connect and share information on a regular basis with the community liaison or crime prevention department of the local police station.

Guards might also screen people, check their bags, grant access to an event or facility, or escort them from point A to point B.

Because the two jobs share some overlap, the terms are sometimes used interchangeably. The exact difference between a security officer vs. security guard can also vary among states, depending on local licensing requirements for the different titles.

In California, for example, you need a guard card if you work for a security company and a Proprietary Private Security Officer (PSO) license if you work for a bar, restaurant or other venue that serves alcohol.

In some states, security staff licenses are divided into different levels based on the training, experience and permit to carry a weapon. To be clear, though, security staff are not part of law enforcement, but they may collaborate with local police departments.

Potential security staff should learn what license or credentials they need in their state because, in some states, they can be liable if they work without one. Looking at the differences between security officer vs. security guard can help you determine which path you want to start working toward.