Security Specialist Jobs in Canada: Anybody who focuses on the protection of people, property, networks, telecommunications systems, and IT systems is considered a security professional. You may work as a computer security analyst, security guard, or personal bodyguard. You have the option of focusing on cyber security, personal security, or physical security. In certain situations, you may choose to pursue a job that combines all three fields.
In this case, we are going to be dealing with the physical security specialist (Security Guards) This security expert focuses on preventing unauthorized individuals from physically entering buildings, resources, or sensitive data. This could be as easy as locking a door or as complicated as employing security patrols and alarm systems.
Generally speaking, you should employ a multi-layered defense mechanism. This implies that you will use alarms, gates, and locks to try to delay and discourage invaders. In addition, you should use the earlier techniques to try to apprehend a criminal in the act as a direct response.
Career Path
There are various possibilities available to you in this subject. One common choice is a security guard. You would be employed in this position to protect places like retail centers, high-rise apartment complexes, commercial complexes, and schools. You may have access to a larger team of guards and more technology if you’re managing larger properties.
Additional career options include gaming surveillance officer and armored car guard. If you’re in the former profession, you’ll be working with banks to move and safeguard money as it moves from one place to another. You will contribute to the protection of casinos during financial transactions if you work in the latter profession.
Eligibility Requirements for Security Specialist in Canada
The following conditions must be fulfilled in order to be licensed as a security guard:
- You have to be at least eighteen years old.
- You must be qualified to work in Canada (for more information, see the Government of Canada).
- You need to have no criminal history.
- To obtain a license, you must finish the required coursework and exams.
- A Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) is required.
You can enroll and finish the necessary training and tests if you match the qualifying conditions.
How to Apply for Security Specialist Jobs in Canada
Being a security guard may be a very exciting and rewarding career decision. You will have the chance to truly impact people’s lives and create a more secure and welcoming world whether you work in healthcare, commercial buildings, post-secondary institutions, aviation, or any other environment.
But that’s not all—in terms of personal development, becoming a security guard may also be a fulfilling career. It can offer you specific training, experience, and priceless talents. Effective communication, situational de-escalation, problem-solving techniques, and more will be covered. These abilities can help you progress in your profession and are applicable to a wide range of other sectors.
If you’re thinking about working as a security guard, you’ll need to fulfill specific qualifications and finish particular training. A detailed guide to become a security guard in Canada can be found here.
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1. Meet the Basic Requirements
In Canada, you have to fulfill the prerequisites before you can work as a security guard. You must be legally able to work in Canada, be at least eighteen years old, and have no criminal history. An entry-level position as a security guard usually requires a high school degree.
2. Complete the Required Training
To obtain a license, security guards in Canada need to finish a certain amount of training. Your location and the kind of security work you intend to perform may affect the training course you must finish. Typically, a specific number of hours of “Basic Security Training (BST)” are needed.
The website of the provincial or territory administration where you intend to work has a list of authorized training programs:
- British Columbia
- Alberta
- Saskatchewan
- Manitoba
- Ontario
- Quebec
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Prince Edward Island
- New Brunswick
3. Obtain a Security Guard License
You must get a security guard license from the relevant government agency after completing your training and passing any required exams. Depending on where you live, different agencies may provide licenses (see the links above).
To get your license, you’ll have to pay a fee, pass a background check, and show that you’ve finished the necessary training. You can lawfully work as a security guard in Canada when you obtain your license.
Fees for Security Guards:
Depending on your province, becoming a security guard may cost different amounts. In essence, the entire cost is split into the following:
- Depending on the province, Basic Security Training (BST) costs $160 to $300 plus tax, while test booking is $75 to $80 plus VAT.
- Depending on the province, the application fee for a security license may vary from $75 to $85 (tax included).
- Equipment and uniforms: Additional $150 to $200 may be needed for boots, flashlights, duty belts, and other equipment. The equipment needed for each site is different. Certain websites have higher requirements than others.
4. Find a Job
It’s time to start looking for a job now that you have your license! In order to begin searching for positions, make sure you obtain a digital copy of your security guard license as soon as possible, as the actual copy may take some time to arrive.
Make careful to emphasize your training and any relevant experience you have while applying for jobs. Because security guard work can be demanding, companies want to be sure you can handle the obligations.
Your can apply directly for your Security Specialist Jobs here: CLICK HERE TO APPLY
5. Maintain Your License
You’ll need to renew your license on a regular basis to keep it active. Your area may have different requirements for renewal (see the links in step 2), but generally speaking, you will need to pay a renewal fee and finish continuous training. To guarantee your success in this sector, keep your license current and stay abreast of the most recent training needs.
Top Tips for Every Security Specialist in Canada
If you are a professional Security Specialist , looking to working and maintaining your job in Canada, then you should follow theses steps outlined below:
1. Review the Supervision System for Security Guards
One of the most crucial elements of guaranteeing quality service is having a contractor with sufficient systems for remotely monitoring your guards. Your guards will be undertrained and unmotivated if your security provider is not giving enough oversight. Furthermore, your guards may feel that their work is unimportant if they are not under supervision. They then frequently start acting in an unethical manner, including consistently being late or even stealing. Find out how a security guard business will handle guard supervision before you sign a contract with them. As we previously stated, there are various ways that supervision can be given, such as:
- Random spot checks using field supervisors
- Guard check-Ins
- Guard tour tracking systems
2. Assess the Training Provided to the Guards
It is likely that your guards have not received enough training if you are dissatisfied with the service they are offering. Examine the orientation your contractor is offering to enhance your security guard service. This training, also known as site-specific training, ought to be evaluated for the following reasons:
- Did the training take place on your land?
- Who was in charge of giving the instruction?
- What was the duration of each guard’s training?
- Can post orders be utilized for training purposes?
Attending an orientation is the greatest approach to evaluate the training and see how the guards are being trained to serve your property.
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3. Verify Your Guards Qualifications
Before receiving a license, guards in the majority of states must complete a certain level of training. Find out what your state requires and confirm that the guards being placed by your security guard business meet those standards. Additionally, you should maintain the right to interview any guard before assigning them to your property in order to make sure they are a suitable fit. You can learn a lot about the security guards’ expectations from this first interview. If you don’t think the guard is a good fit, you can request another one after the interview.
4. Always Perform Inspections Just To Improve Your Security
If at all possible, make an unannounced visit to your property outside regular business hours to learn more about how your security system functions when you’re not there. Ask your guards about their responsibilities during your inspection to make sure they are aware of them. Alternatively, think about using a third-party security specialist to inspect your guards. Make sure the consultant you select isn’t affiliated with another security guard firm if you decide to use an independent third-party inspection; otherwise, your findings might be skewed.
5. Always Meet With Your Contractor
Meeting with your security guard contractor on a regular basis is the simplest way to increase security. Both formal and informal meetings are possible, as is doing them over the phone. Giving the contractor feedback on the performance of the guards should be the aim of these meetings. Regularly giving them feedback can help you identify small ways to make your security service better. During these sessions, both sides can talk about things like guard attrition, the outcome of security audits, tenant feedback, and feedback from any remote supervisory systems. Your contractor will learn what is expected of them and how to meet acceptable service levels with the help of these frequent sessions.
Choose A Quality Contractor To Improve Your Security Services
The sixth piece of advice in this article is the most obvious. Surprisingly, yet, it is also the one that is frequently disregarded. Like everything else in life, you receive what you put in. The quality assurance procedures that help guarantee that you and your clients are satisfied with your service are not free, despite the fact that many security guard firms may appear to be the same. Therefore, evaluate the skills and performance history of your vendors and select the one that can actually fulfill your needs. “You get what you pay for in this world.”Kurt Vonnegut
Conclusion
Canada’s commitment to safety and security has created a strong demand for skilled security professionals. With a robust economy and diverse industries, the country offers numerous opportunities for individuals seeking careers in security.
To succeed in the Canadian security industry, consider the following:
- Certification and Licensing: Obtain relevant certifications and licenses to enhance your credibility and employability.
- Physical Fitness: Maintain a high level of physical fitness to meet the demands of the job.
- Communication Skills: Strong communication skills are essential for effective interaction with clients and colleagues.
- Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze situations and make quick decisions is crucial.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and respecting diverse cultures is important, especially in multicultural environments.
By combining these qualities with a strong work ethic, you can establish a rewarding career in the Canadian security industry.
