Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Security Guard Supervisor
💰 $45,000 - $65,000
🎯 Role Definition
As a Security Guard Supervisor, you are the backbone of our on-site security operations. You will be a hands-on leader, responsible for guiding, mentoring, and managing a team of dedicated security officers. Your primary mission is to ensure the safety and security of our client's personnel, property, and assets by maintaining a highly visible and professional security presence. This role requires a blend of strong leadership, exceptional judgment, and a commitment to upholding our standards of excellence and client satisfaction. You are the critical link between our security officers, our clients, and senior management.
📈 Career Progression
Typical Career Path
Entry Point From:
- Experienced Security Officer
- Senior Security Guard / Corporal
- Security Team Lead
Advancement To:
- Site Security Manager
- Regional Security Manager
- Operations Manager
Lateral Moves:
- Loss Prevention Supervisor
- Emergency Response Coordinator
Core Responsibilities
Primary Functions
- Lead and Supervise a team of security officers, managing daily schedules, post assignments, and break rotations to ensure complete and effective coverage of the assigned site.
- Conduct Comprehensive Training for newly assigned officers on site-specific policies, post orders, and emergency procedures, ensuring a thorough understanding of their duties.
- Provide Ongoing Coaching and Mentorship to security personnel, fostering a positive and professional work environment and focusing on continuous skill development and performance improvement.
- Act as the Primary On-Site Point of Contact for client representatives, promptly addressing their concerns, providing operational updates, and ensuring all service level agreements are met or exceeded.
- ** spearhead Initial Incident Response** by taking charge during security breaches, medical emergencies, or other critical events, ensuring proper de-escalation and notification protocols are followed.
- Perform and Document Regular Patrols and site inspections to verify officer alertness, uniform compliance, and adherence to post orders, ensuring the integrity of the security posture.
- Review and Approve all security officer reports, including Daily Activity Reports (DARs) and incident reports, for clarity, accuracy, and completeness before submission.
- Manage and Enforce all site access control procedures for employees, visitors, and vendors, ensuring unauthorized individuals are prevented from entering restricted areas.
- Operate and Monitor complex security systems, including CCTV surveillance, alarms, and access control software, to detect and respond to suspicious activities.
- Coordinate with Emergency Services, including local police, fire departments, and EMTs, during incidents, providing them with critical information and support upon their arrival.
- Conduct Preliminary Investigations into security incidents, such as theft or property damage, by gathering evidence, securing the scene, and interviewing witnesses.
- Administer Corrective Action and disciplinary measures in a fair and consistent manner in accordance with company policy when performance or conduct issues arise.
- Facilitate Daily Shift Briefings to communicate important information, pass-on instructions, and review recent events to ensure a smooth transition between shifts.
- Ensure all Security Equipment, such as radios, body cameras, and patrol vehicles, is properly maintained, inventoried, and in good working order.
- Identify and Report any potential security risks, safety hazards, or maintenance issues observed during patrols to the appropriate client or management personnel.
- Develop and Maintain a strong, professional relationship with the client, demonstrating a deep understanding of their business and security needs.
Secondary Functions
- Assist the Security Manager in the development, implementation, and revision of site-specific post orders and emergency response plans.
- Participate in the Officer Selection Process by conducting interviews and providing recommendations for potential new hires.
- Manage Overtime Distribution effectively and fairly, ensuring operational needs are met while adhering to budgetary constraints.
- Compile and Analyze Security Data to identify trends, patterns, and areas for operational improvement, presenting findings to management.
- Support Payroll Administration by verifying officer work hours, tracking attendance, and submitting timesheets accurately and on schedule.
- Fill Open Posts as necessary during call-offs or staffing shortages to maintain required coverage levels, demonstrating a hands-on leadership approach.
- Conduct Safety Drills and emergency preparedness exercises with the security team to ensure readiness for various scenarios.
- Represent the company in a professional and positive manner at all times, serving as a key ambassador of our brand and values.
Required Skills & Competencies
Hard Skills (Technical)
- Advanced Report Writing: Ability to write clear, concise, and detailed incident reports and daily summaries that can be used for legal or investigative purposes.
- Surveillance Systems Proficiency: In-depth knowledge of operating and monitoring modern CCTV, VMS (Video Management Systems), and other surveillance technologies.
- Access Control Systems Management: Experience with enterprise-level access control software and hardware for badging, visitor management, and alarm monitoring.
- Incident Command & Control: Training or experience in leading initial response efforts during critical incidents.
- Scheduling & Workforce Management: Proficiency with scheduling software (e.g., TrackTik, Valiant) to manage shifts, overtime, and time-off requests.
- First Aid/CPR/AED Certification: Current certification to provide immediate medical assistance when required.
Soft Skills
- Exceptional Leadership & Motivation: The ability to inspire, direct, and develop a diverse team of security professionals.
- Conflict Resolution & De-escalation: Proven skill in calmly and effectively resolving disputes and tense situations involving employees or the public.
- Decisive Judgment Under Pressure: The capacity to make sound, critical decisions quickly and confidently in high-stress environments.
- Clear & Assertive Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with clients, staff, and emergency responders.
- Unwavering Integrity & Professionalism: A strong ethical compass and commitment to maintaining the highest standards of conduct.
- Client-Focused Service Orientation: A dedication to understanding and meeting client needs and building strong, trusting relationships.
- Problem-Solving & Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze situations, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
Education & Experience
Educational Background
Minimum Education:
- High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
- Valid State Security License/Certification as required by law.
Preferred Education:
- Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.
Relevant Fields of Study:
- Criminal Justice
- Security Management
- Homeland Security
- Business Administration
Experience Requirements
Typical Experience Range: 3-5 years of progressive experience in the physical security industry, law enforcement, or military.
Preferred: A minimum of 1-2 years of proven experience in a supervisory or leadership role within a security context (e.g., Senior Officer, Team Lead, Corporal).