Des Moines Private Security Jobs Overview
Thwarting crime, cheaters, and vandalism, private security jobs are for those valiant souls with watchful eyes and protective spirits. Not only are there stable positions for security officers within retail operations, corporate buildings, private residences, event venues, and the bodyguard field, but additional opportunities are projected to open in casinos too (as more states legalize gambling). According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for gambling surveillance officers and investigators should see a solid increase of over 6% over the next decade.
Private security guards don’t have the same purview and authority as sworn police officers who work for city or state, but this career will still have you monitoring grounds and cameras to ensure the safety of whomever or whatever you’re protecting. Daily duties may include:
- Patrolling property vigilantly.
- Providing or denying entry to authorized or unauthorized people.
- Accompanying your employer to various destinations.
- Making rounds to determine potential threats and check access points.
- Detaining people who enter without authorization until the police arrive.
You can expand your search for protective services jobs by checking out these similar positions:
About Working in Des Moines, Iowa
If you don't live in Des Moines, cornfields may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Iowa's capital city. But Des Moines is far more than prairies and farms. According to several rankings, Des Moines is among the best and safest places to live in the U.S., a great city for young professionals, and an affordable place to buy a first home. So, if you're thinking about looking for jobs in Des Moines, you're not alone!
Des Moines has a lot to offer residents. You can admire the breathtaking architecture of the State Capitol building, browse the displays at Des Moines Art Center, or take a scenic walk through Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens before eating a "Dead Moines burger" from Zombie Burger or a crab rangoon pizza from Fong. The vibrant Historic East Village located downtown is lined with more than 90 locally owned restaurants, bars, food trucks, and shops.
The unemployment rate in Des Moines is lower than the national average, and its job market is healthy in comparison to other similarly sized metro areas. To top it off, the cost of living is pretty low in Des Moines. Jobs can also be found in other nearby cities like West Des Moines, Ankeny, and Ames.
Update Your Des Moines Private Security Resume
Before you start searching for private security jobs, you’ll need to fortify a resume that plays up your strengths in security and surveillance—and that reinforces what sets you apart from other candidates. Toughen it up by emphasizing relevant elements, such as a military or law enforcement background, along with any experience with patrolling methods, surveillance technology (such as CCTV systems), and threat assessments. Extras like criminal justice knowledge can only boost your attractiveness to recruiters.
For more suggestions, review Monster’s security guard resume sample, our pointers on how to write an effective objective, and this cover-letter example for security officers.
How Much Do Private Security Jobs Pay in Des Moines, Iowa?
Got money on your mind? You should! Make sure you’re getting paid what you’re worth. Our Salary Tools can help you understand what you can expect to make in private security jobs in Des Moines, Iowa, as well as the skills that can boost your value and what the next steps in your career might be. Right now, the median security officer pay in Des Moines is $13.17 per hour, which is 4% lower than the national average.
Find Your Next Des Moines Private Security Job. Monster Can Help Get You Started
Are you prepared for a career in private security? If so, set up your profile on Monster for free and begin clicking on those private security jobs. When you sign up with us, you’ll receive custom job alerts and expert advice on how to negotiate your salary in Des Moines, how to nail your job interview, and more.