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A security manager is responsible to create a safe environment and also has policies in place to react to emergency situations should they occur. Though they do handle situations involving dangerous or unauthorized people, these managers are just as good handling medical emergencies and evacuating people due to a fire emergency.
Watch a video of what a security manager does:
How to Become a Security Manager
First, if you want to become a security manager you should be able to keep calm under pressure and make the right decisions to have the best outcome possible for the situation at hand. Most security managers have a degree after high school. Though 15% do hold an associate’s degree according to O*Net OnLine, most hold a bachelor’s degree. Around 15% of those surveyed with this position reported having earned a master’s degree as well. As with any management position, a mix of education and experience is vital. Most employers consider military security or police experience as equivalent to education and experience as well.
Job Description of a Security Manager
Along with responding to emergencies, a security manager trains other security staff and company employees to react to an emergency safely. If they are not investigating a security issue or improving the security and surveillance of an area, they are most likely preparing to deal with emergencies. This may include creating and implementing safety policies and procedures for people to follow should an issue arise.
Security managers ensure their staff and company employees get to practice those procedures on a regular basis. For example, they may run building evaluation drills once a month or provide active shooter training to staff. They also ensure their own security staff’s skills to respond to a medical emergency are up-to-date and practiced.
Security Manager Career Video Transcript
Security is a top priority in every company, whether it’s preventing theft or being prepared for emergencies. For many, security managers make the difference between being safe and being sorry. Security managers protect the safety of employees, facilities, and the assets of an organization. They assess risks and establish policies to prevent dangers such as fires, bomb threats, medical emergencies, and intrusions.
These security professionals evaluate building layouts to plan for evacuation, hiding during a crisis, and detaining or apprehending criminals. In all kinds of workplaces, whether it’s a bank or a mall, if security is breached, security managers are in charge of identifying the location and problem, and resolving it. One of their key roles is to design security systems that track activity and establish safeguards at building entrances, exits, and other sensitive areas. This strategic thinking and preparation keeps both people and property safe.
Many security managers enter the field with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, security management, or a similar field. Some employers prefer candidates with experience in the police force or military. A driver’s license and security training related to the industry is helpful.
Article Citations
National Center for O*NET Development. 11-9199.07. O*NET OnLine.
The career video is in the public domain from the U. S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.