Security guards and gaming surveillance officers patrol and protect property against theft, vandalism, terrorism, and illegal activity.

Security guards work in a wide variety of places, including public buildings, retail stores, and office buildings. Gaming surveillance officers work mostly in casino observation rooms, using audio and video equipment. Because many buildings and casinos are open 24 hours a day, guards and officers must often work around the clock.

Most security guard jobs require a high school diploma. Gaming surveillance officers may need experience with security and video surveillance, depending upon their work assignment. Most states require guards to be registered with the state, especially if they carry a firearm.

The median annual wage for security guards and gaming surveillance officers was $24,680 in May 2015.

Employment of security guards and gaming surveillance officers is projected to grow 5 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Overall job opportunities should be excellent, especially for security guards.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for security guards and gaming surveillance officers.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of security guards and gaming surveillance officers with similar occupations.

Learn more about security guards and gaming surveillance officers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.