Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
You might know that the Steelers play in Pittsburgh—during the late 1800s and early 1900s, the "City of Steel" was the home of Carnegie Steel Co., which later became United States Steel Corp. But, did you know that Pittsburgh is also called the "City of Bridges?" It has a total of 446 bridges, which are popular with walkers, bikers, tourists, and even social media influencers. In Pittsburgh's vibrant downtown, you can catch a touring Broadway show or browse an art gallery in the Cultural District. If you want diverse dining options, head to Market Square, where you'll find everything from brick oven pizza to gourmet grilled cheese to fresh oysters. Still not convinced that you should apply to Pittsburgh jobs? WalletHub even ranked Pittsburgh among the top 20 best large cities to live in the U.S.
What makes Pittsburgh's job market so unique? It's home to many large corporations but also fosters a start-up environment with lots of small, emerging industries and companies. And if you can't find that perfect-fit job in Pittsburgh, you can also look in Altoona, State College, and Harrisburg.
Update Your Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?
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 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 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 Pittsburgh is $13.49 per hour, which is 2% lower than the national average.
Find Your Next Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, how to nail your job interview, and more.