Security Guard: resume screening criteria template

Has worked as a security guard, loss prevention officer, or access control specialist for at least one year. The type of facility matters: hospital security requires different skills than construction site security. Look for progression or consistency, not just a list of short stints.

Strong evidence: Resume lists specific facilities secured ("retail store security at Target, 2021-2023" or "overnight security for 200-unit apartment complex"), duties performed ("monitored 16-camera CCTV system," "conducted hourly perimeter checks"), and any measurable outcomes ("maintained incident log averaging 15 entries per week," "zero security breaches during tenure").

Red flag: Vague descriptions like "provided security services" with no facility type, duties, or duration. Job-hopping every 3-6 months across multiple security companies suggests reliability or performance issues. No security experience but claims military/police background qualifies them (different skill sets).

Holds a current state security guard license or can obtain one quickly. Many states require 8-40 hours of training and background checks. Also verify they can pass your background check and drug screening. A valid driver's license matters if they need to patrol parking areas or respond to multiple buildings.

Strong evidence: Resume states "[State] Security Guard License #12345, expires 2025" or "Licensed security officer." May mention certifications like CPR/First Aid, OSHA 10, or specialized training (active shooter response, fire safety). Clean driving record if applicable.

Red flag: No mention of licensing when your state requires it. Past criminal convictions that would disqualify them (ask about this carefully per EEOC guidelines). Suspended driver's license if driving is essential. Claims certifications but provides no numbers or expiration dates.

Can write clear, detailed incident reports that hold up if you need them for insurance claims, legal issues, or tenant complaints. This isn't about perfect grammar but about capturing who, what, when, where, and what action was taken. Many security failures happen because guards didn't document problems properly.

Strong evidence: Resume mentions "prepared daily activity reports and incident summaries," "documented safety violations using [software name like Trackforce or Allied Universal systems]," or "maintained detailed logs for management review." Bonus if they note "reports used in [X] investigations" or "trained new guards on documentation procedures."

Red flag: No mention of reporting or documentation duties. Resume has numerous spelling/grammar errors suggesting they may struggle with written communication. Describes job as only "watched cameras" or "walked around" with no administrative component.

Shows up consistently for overnight, weekend, holiday, or solo shifts when there's no supervisor watching. Security is a coverage-critical role: if they don't show, you're exposed. Look for evidence they've handled the schedule you're offering and didn't burn out or ghost employers.

Strong evidence: Resume specifies shift types worked ("overnight security, 11pm-7am, 5 nights per week" or "weekend shifts, Saturday-Sunday"). Long tenure at previous security jobs (2+ years suggests they can handle the routine). May mention perfect attendance awards or "covered emergency shifts." References from previous security supervisors who can verify reliability.

Red flag: Multiple short-term security jobs (under 6 months each) with no explanation. Employment gaps that align with quitting after trying overnight work. Resume shows only day-shift or part-time work but you're hiring for overnights or full-time. Currently working a conflicting schedule with no plan to transition.

Can handle trespassers, disputes between people, intoxicated individuals, or policy violators without escalating to physical confrontation or calling police for every minor issue. Good judgment means knowing when to enforce rules firmly and when to get help. This skill prevents lawsuits and keeps your environment safe.

Strong evidence: Resume describes situations handled: "managed trespassing incidents and unauthorized access attempts," "de-escalated conflicts between tenants," "enforced no-loitering policy while maintaining professional demeanor." May mention training in conflict resolution, crisis intervention, or verbal judo. Worked in environments requiring customer service alongside security (hospitals, hotels, retail).

Red flag: Describes security work as only physical ("restrained suspects," "removed individuals") with no mention of communication or de-escalation. Background in roles where force was primary tool (bouncer, bail enforcement) without subsequent security training. Aggressive language in resume or interview. Worked only in low-interaction roles (empty building overnight) but you need someone who deals with people.

If they lack direct security guard experience, certain roles translate well: military police (not just military), loss prevention, EMT/firefighter, hotel front desk, or facilities maintenance. These jobs build observation skills, protocol adherence, and calm under pressure. Avoid overvaluing combat roles or assuming any uniform job prepares someone for security's repetitive nature.

Strong evidence: Resume shows loss prevention associate work ("monitored for shoplifting, conducted bag checks"), military police or security forces (not just infantry), front desk roles requiring access control, or facilities jobs requiring safety inspections. Describes skills that transfer: "monitored surveillance equipment," "enforced facility policies," "responded to emergencies."

Red flag: Military service with no security-related duties ("served as mechanic in Army" doesn't predict security skills). Retail or hospitality work with no safety/security component. Warehouse or construction labor with no monitoring or access control duties. Assumes any job involving a uniform or authority translates to security guard work.