Employers

Nearly 1.4 million security workers are employed in the United States. Security services is one of the largest employment fields in the United States. Security consultants may work as employees of companies that provide security services to clients or they may work as independent consultants. Many different industries employ security consultants, including residential, commercial, healthcare, events, and many others.

Starting Out

People interested in careers in security services generally apply directly to security services companies. Some jobs may be available through state or private employment services. People interested in security consulting may also apply directly to government agencies.

Most entry-level positions for security consultants are filled by those with a bachelor's or associate's degree in criminal justice, business administration, or a related field. Those with a high school diploma and some experience in the field may find work with a security consulting firm, although they usually begin as security guards and become consultants only after further training. Beginning security personnel receive varied amounts of training. Training requirements are generally increasing as modern, highly sophisticated security systems become more common.

Security consultants with experience may advance to management positions or they may start their own private consulting firms. Instruction and training of security personnel is another advancement opportunity for security consultants.

For job listings, visit:

• https://careercenter.asisonline.org/jobs
• https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/security-consultant-jobs
• https://www.careerbuilder.com
• https://www.indeed.com

Read the ASIS Blog and Security Topics (both available at https://www.asisonline.org) to learn more about the field.

Become certified by ASIS International in order to show employers that you've met the highest standards established by your industry.

Talk to a security consultant to learn more about their day-to-day work and their prior work experience and educational background. Ask your school's career services office to help you set up an informational interview.