How Do I Become a Security Supervisor?

If you want to be a security supervisor, you should have at least one year of experience as a security officer under your belt. Most employers prefer security supervisor candidates to have prior lifesaving experience as well as some basic first-aid and firefighting knowledge. A high school diploma is typically required for the position, and while a college diploma is not always required, it is frequently considered a plus in the hiring process. If you want to be a security supervisor, you must have problem-solving skills, courage, and quick thinking. When applying for a job, having served in the military is often considered a plus.

Many people who work in the security field aspire to work their way up the ranks to become security supervisors. As the individual strives to improve herself, this is usually a natural next step. Before applying for a supervisory position, a candidate should usually have at least one year of experience as a security officer. This requirement may be waived based on exceptional service, actions beyond those required of a security officer, and a variety of other factors. If you served in the military before becoming a security officer, you can often apply your time in service to your seniority as time served.

If a problem arises, as a supervisor, you will most likely be the first person called by any of your employees. As a result, if you want to work as a security supervisor, you should consider getting training in lifesaving techniques like bleeding control, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and even basic firefighting. Because of the risky nature of the security field, any training in self-defense and take-down skills is usually considered a plus on your resume.

Your quest to become a security supervisor will be aided by excellent performance on the job as a security officer. Typically, you will be required to take a written test to assess your problem-solving abilities as well as your understanding of rules and regulations. You will be given an oral interview after successfully completing the written portion of the testing. This could include one or more of your superiors posing scenario-based questions to test your ability to think quickly. After passing this part of the process, you may be assigned to work with a supervisor for a period of time to gain hands-on experience with some aspects of the job. In order to become a security supervisor, you will typically need to get this supervisor’s approval.