The Difference Between a Security Guard and A Security Officer

Security guards and officers have similar roles that allow them to provide a community with safety. But factors such as authority and hierarchy make their roles different. Therefore, when hiring security guard services, it’s essential  to understand the difference between security guards and security officers.

Defining a Security Guard

A person with lesser rank who works under a security officer is a security guard. They will typically team up with and operate under officers. Security guards usually go through rigorous training before they go out into the field. 

Defining a Security Officer

A security officer manages security personnel. Their job description includes providing directives and directing the security guards’ activities. Because of their knowledge and experience, security officers can also mentor security guards.

What Makes a Security Guard Different from a Security Officer

There are several ways that security guards and security officers are different, and are compared by looking at the following four areas:

Reporting

A security guard reports to a security officer. Security officers are not required to report to a security guard as they have a higher placement in the hierarchical organization of security guard companies in Houston.

Posting

Security officers usually are not stationed at posts, such as the entrance gate of a private parking lot, to perform essential inspection duties. Security guard services typically perform these tasks  through security guards who report to a security officer. 

Operations

A considerable difference between security guards and officers is that a security officer must move between locations to supervise the security system. In contrast ,  a security officer usually is stationed at a single site . As security officers oversee a security system, they manage it and inspect whether everything is operating accordingly in the entire security system, including checking CCTV cameras in various locations, and issues such as trespassing and theft.

Training

Security officers undergo intense and rigorous training to oversee each department of the security system. Security officers direct security guards, meaning they don’t require training. 

Looking for Trusted Security Guard Services? Contact Us

We have the services you need if you are interested in hiring a security service and are looking for security guard companies in Houston, TX. At Professional Guard & Patrol, Inc., we offer 24-hour dispatch services. Contact us today!