Industry Profile --by Erin Ryan-Walsh

Research shows there will be an increase in the demand for security of all descriptions in the years ahead. And, according to Alberta Careers Beyond 2000, in 1999 there were between 5,000 and 10,000 people employed in the security guard and related occupations cluster. Together, this means strong growth in security guard positions and related occupations such as alarm system installation and installing locking and bolting systems. Not unlike many other industries, the security industry is undergoing a transition between older methods of security and technological advancements, such as door locks requiring a card to be swiped instead of requiring a traditional metal key. The provincial government predicts employment will grow in this industry at about 3.5 per cent over the next 10 years.

There are a variety of professions in the security industry, requiring a range of education, certification and skills such as mechanical aptitude, dealing with people, and manual dexterity. Most importantly, all jobs in the security industry require a clean criminal record in order to become certified under the criminal code to perform the various duties of your position. These positions include:

• Security Guards

  Security guards protect an organization's property, personnel and information against fire, theft, vandalism and illegal entry. In order to be a security guard you should enjoy working with the public, having clear rules and guidelines for your work as well as the ability to work flexible hours.

  Most companies prefer to hire employees with a high school diploma, although some companies will hire people over the age of 18 with good communication skills in English. Furthermore, some companies require that you have CPR and First Aid and/or certification from a security institute such as the Hilltop Academy in Calgary.

  Pay for security guards will range from minimum wage to $10 per hour and up.

• Security Alarm Installer

  Security alarm installers install and maintain systems in residential as well as business areas. In order to work in this industry you should have manual dexterity, mechanical aptitude, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Not unlike security guards, security alarm installers must work a variety of hours and enjoy a flexible yet often demanding work schedule.

  Most installers are trained on the job, and most employers prefer to hire someone with high school education and an interest or experience in the electronics field.

  Installers earned between $24,000 to $43,000 a year in 1996, according to provincial government research.

• Locksmith

  Locksmiths sell and install high security lock systems, key control systems and a variety of other security and locking devices. Locksmith is a broad term that can be further subdivided into key duplicators, shop locksmiths, mobile locksmiths, safe and vault technicians, and locksmiths who service bank equipment. Regardless of your speciality, locksmiths are required to work in a variety of environments and must take a flexible approach to their work hours and surroundings. To be a locksmith you should possess mechanical aptitude, good mathematical ability, patience and stamina, good interpersonal skills, and good hand eye co-ordination.

  Generally locksmiths are trained on the job or can also learn through on the job apprenticeship. To enter the Locksmith Apprenticeship program in Alberta you must have a minimum Grade 10 education. You also need to be eligible to obtain a pick license issued under section 353 of the Criminal Code (Canada) by Alberta Justice.

  Locksmiths with journeyman certification may earn from $20,000 and up a year.

• Private Investigators

  Private investigators can either work in-house or on contract to people and/or organizations. They search for information about people, events, places and things depending on the specifications of their task.

  Private Investigators require provincial licensing and the specifics of this licensing varies from province to province. See this month's Hot Tip for more details.

  Average income for a full-time PI will range from $20,000 to $50,000 a year, provincial research shows.

• Armoured Car Guards

  Armoured car guards are used primarily to transport cash and other valuables. A small number of companies provide this type of service, and with the move toward a cashless society, job prospects may be limited.

• House Sitters

  House sitters live in, or visit, client's homes usually according to the requirements of the client's insurance policy. House sitters are often called upon to take care of pets, water plants, and give the home a lived-in appearance.