Security Guard Showdown: Armed vs Unarmed
Choosing between armed and unarmed security jobs? We break down pay, responsibilities, and who should apply for each.
Quick Picks
Best for high risk environments: Armed Security Guard. Best for beginners: Unarmed Security Guard.
Security Job Breakdown
You're choosing between armed and unarmed security jobs. Here's what actually matters: pay, risk level, and who should consider each role.
Armed/Unarmed Security Guard
If you're comfortable with the added responsibility and risk, armed security roles offer a higher rate, typically starting at £18/hr. Ideal for those with prior law enforcement or military experience. You need certification and a clean record, but the pay reflects the risk.
Armed/Unarmed Security Guard
But if the idea of carrying a weapon isn't appealing, unarmed security roles might be more your speed. They still offer a decent rate and a chance to gain experience in the field.
Armed/Unarmed Security Guard
Unarmed security positions are a great entry point for beginners. With rates around £12/hr, they offer a safer environment and fewer entry barriers. Good choice if you're just starting out or prefer less high-stakes work.
Armed/Unarmed Security Guard
Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about speed and flexibility. While armed roles might offer higher pay, unarmed jobs often provide more flexible schedules and quicker hiring processes.
Flexibility and Speed
Unarmed roles win here, with faster onboarding and more adaptable shifts.
In conclusion, if you're looking to break into the security field or prefer a less intense environment, unarmed roles are the way to go. However, for those seeking higher pay and are willing to take on more risk, armed positions can be lucrative. Ready to explore more high-stakes security jobs? Check out our deep dive on Cybersecurity Jobs: Senior Threat Detection vs. Cybersecurity Expert.
