Main Responsibilities and Required Skills for an Armed Security Officer

An Armed Security Officer is a professional who is responsible for providing security and protection to individuals, property, or assets. They are trained and authorized to carry firearms as part of their duties. In this blog post, we will explore the primary responsibilities and the most in-demand hard and soft skills for Armed Security Officers.

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Main Responsibilities of an Armed Security Officer

The following list describes the typical responsibilities of an Armed Security Officer :

Act

Act to prevent unapproved or unlawful entry.

Address

Address all client inquires with courtesy and professionalism.

Anticipate

Anticipate and answer customer inquiries.

Apply

Apply the use of force rules based on the situation.

Apprehend

Apprehend and detain perpetrators according to legal protocol before arrival of authorities.

Assist in

Assist in the development and implementation of emergency response plans.
Assist in the development and implementation of security protocols and procedures.
Assist management and enforcement officers in emergency situations.
Assist with basic first aid.

Check

Check for unsafe conditions, hazards, unlocked doors, security violations.
Check surveillance cameras periodically to identify disruptions or unlawful acts.

Circulate

Circulate among visitors, patrons, and employees to preserve order and protect property.

Clean

Clean Background Reports according to State mandates.

Collaborate with

Collaborate with law enforcement agencies in case of criminal activities.

Complete

Complete incident reports.

Conduct

Conduct background checks on individuals seeking access to secure areas.
Conduct inspections of commercial vehicles.
Conduct inspections of personnel and vehicle identification.
Conduct investigations into security breaches or incidents and document findings.
Conduct risk assessments and develop strategies to mitigate potential threats.
Conduct risk assessments for high-profile individuals or events.
Conduct routine foot patrols in and around the building.
Conduct security checks and inspections to identify vulnerabilities.

Contact

Contact supervisor by radio or telephone to report irregularities and obtain further instructions.

Control

Control access to client site or facility through the admittance process.
Control entrances, the movement of people and vehicles, and parking.
Control, monitor and escalate issues to the respective authorities, the client and GSS.

Coordinate with

Coordinate with other security staff as needed.
Coordinate with security team members to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Detect

Detect signs of intrusion and ensure security of doors, windows, and gates.

Deter

Deter criminal activity and misconduct.

Document

Document and report any property damage and special occurrences.

Enforce

Enforce client procedures, regulations, and standards.
Enforce facility and company policies and procedures.
Enforce facility policies.
Enforce security policies and regulations to ensure compliance.

Engage

Engage by being proactive, examples below.

Ensure

Ensure all logs are being completed to perfection and seek advice as needed.
Ensure job site area with your area of control is clean and professional at all times.
Ensure proper relations are maintained between the client and GSS.
Ensure the facility is provided with high quality security services to protect people and property.

Escort

Escort individuals or valuable assets to ensure their safety.

Examine

Examine doors, windows, and gates to determine that they are secure.

Facilitate

Facilitate various guest services, including transportation and area attraction inquiries.

Follow

Follow all assigned post orders, both general and specific.

Greet

Greet all guests and employees with the utmost respect and dignity.
Greet all guests and residents with the utmost respect and dignity.
Greet and screen visitors, guests, contractors and delivery personnel.
Greet, Engage and Thank individuals for their business or patronizing the location.

Guide

Guide customers to their destinations or available open lines or other key points of interest.

Handle

Handle and safely store firearms and other security-related equipment.

Identify

Identify and report suspicious, dangerous or criminal acts.

Implement

Implement excellent and dedicated customer service.

Inspect

Inspect equipment and machinery to ascertain if tampering has occurred.

Investigate

Investigate and prepare reports on accidents, incidents, and suspicious activities.
Investigate people for suspicious activity or possessions.

Maintain

Maintain access control procedures set by management for all guests and vendors.
Maintain accurate records of daily activities and incident logs.
Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor at all times.
Maintain a secure and safe environment.
Maintain a visible presence to deter unauthorized access or criminal activities.
Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
Maintain proficiency in the use of all assigned protective equipment, restraint devices and weapons.
Maintain proficiency with Non-Lethal Weapons.
Maintain weapons qualification on assigned weapon systems.
Maintain written logs as required by the post.

Make

Make emergency notifications.

Monitor

Monitor access control systems and verify the identity of individuals entering restricted areas.
Monitor access control systems including turnstiles, cameras, loading dock.
Monitor alarm systems and respond to alarms promptly.
Monitor and authorize entrance of vehicles or people on the property.
Monitor CCTV and alarm systems.
Monitor for irregular or unusual activity.
Monitor surveillance systems and report any suspicious activities or incidents.
Monitor video surveillance equipment for security breaches and criminal or suspicious activities.

Notify

Notify staff of the presence of persons with questionable reputations.

Observe

Observe, report, and prevent incidents by providing a physical presence.
Observe, survey, and report activities at the assigned site.

Operate

Operate weapon in safe manner according to statute and company policy.

Participate in

Participate in industry specific security / safety training programs.
Participate in training programs to enhance skills and knowledge.

Patrol

Patrol assigned site on foot or in vehicle.
Patrol designated areas to deter and detect potential security threats.
Patrol premises regularly to maintain order and establish presence.
Patrol public areas to detect fires, unsafe conditions, and missing or inoperative safety equipment.

Perform

Perform armed security patrols of designated areas on foot or in vehicle.
Perform foot patrol in outside environments.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Perform other related duties and collateral responsibilities as assigned or required.
Perform regular equipment inspections and maintenance to ensure functionality.
Perform regular facility patrols according to shift supervisor / supervisor.
Perform security patrols of designated areas on foot or in vehicle.
Perform vehicle inspections and patrols to prevent unauthorized entry.

Prepare

Prepare detailed reports on security incidents, observations, and actions taken.
Prepare incident reports and escalate serious issues to manager(s) as per protocol.
Prepare logs and reports as required.

Produce

Produce and maintain different security operations reports and forms.

Protect

Protect equipment and personnel.

Provide

Provide a secure work environment by treating fellow security officers and client with Respect.
Provide assistance to customers, employees, and visitors in a courteous and professional manner.
Provide assistance to people in need.
Provide crowd control and maintain order during events or gatherings.
Provide direction and assistance to building occupants during emergency incidents.
Provide escort services for occupants of client property, as requested.
Provide excellent customer service to our clients.
Provide first aid or CPR in case of medical emergencies.
Provide guidance and directions to guests.
Provide safety and security training to staff members or clients.
Provide Security to a homeless shelter.
Provide the opportunity for regular overtime.

Qualify

Qualify and maintain proficiency with all assigned weapons.

Relay

Relay pertinent information to management.

Report

Report all potential safety hazards promptly to management.

Respond to

Respond promptly to alarms or emergency situations and take appropriate action.
Respond quickly to critical situations.
Respond to alarms by investigating and assessing the situation.
Respond to emergencies and incidents promptly and according to policies.
Respond to emergencies and investigate disturbances.
Respond to emergencies and think clearly during crisis or high-stress situations.
Respond to incidents and document the event with accuracy and diligence.

Secure

Secure facility and designated areas.
Secure premises and establishing a friendly presence at the site.

Share that information with customers or any of above when interactions with them require it.

Stand

Stand or walk on various surfaces for long periods of time.

Stay updated on

Stay updated on the latest security trends, technologies, and best practices.
Stay vigilant and proactive in identifying and addressing security risks.

Submit

Submit reports of daily activity and important occurrences.
Submit reports of daily surveillance activity and important occurrences.

Troubleshoot

Troubleshoot customer issues, concerns, or complaints.

Warn

Warn violators of rule infractions, such as loitering, smoking or carrying forbidden articles.
Warn violators of rule infractions, such as loitering, smoking, or carrying forbidden articles.
Warn violators of rules infractions, such as loitering, or carrying forbidden articles.

Work

Work in various environments such as cold weather, rain / snow or heat.

Write

Write investigation and automobile usage reports.

Most In-demand Hard Skills

The following list describes the most required technical skills of an Armed Security Officer :

Proficient in firearms handling and marksmanship.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws pertaining to security and firearms.
Familiarity with security systems and surveillance equipment.
Basic understanding of emergency response protocols and procedures.
Proficiency in using communication devices, such as two-way radios.
Ability to operate security-related software and technology.
Knowledge of defensive tactics and physical restraint techniques.
Understanding of access control systems and procedures.
First aid and CPR certification.
Knowledge of bomb threat response and evacuation procedures.
Ability to use defensive and tactical driving techniques.
Understanding of crowd management and de-escalation strategies.
Knowledge of emergency evacuation procedures and protocols.
Proficiency in conducting security assessments and audits.
Familiarity with electronic key card systems and alarm panels.
Ability to operate X-ray machines or metal detectors.
Knowledge of fire prevention and suppression techniques.
Proficiency in operating and maintaining security equipment, such as CCTV cameras and security alarms.
Understanding of hazardous materials response protocols.
Familiarity with incident reporting software and documentation.

Most In-demand Soft Skills

The following list describes the most required soft skills of an Armed Security Officer :

Strong communication skills to interact effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Excellent observation and attention to detail to identify potential security threats.
Ability to remain calm and composed in high-pressure situations.
Problem-solving skills to make quick decisions and take appropriate actions.
Integrity and ethical conduct to uphold the principles of security and confidentiality.
Physical fitness and stamina to handle demanding situations and perform duties effectively.
Adaptability and flexibility to adjust to changing security requirements.
Teamwork and collaboration to work effectively with other security personnel.
Professionalism and customer service skills to interact with clients and the public.
Critical thinking and situational awareness to assess security risks and devise appropriate strategies.

Conclusion

An Armed Security Officer plays a crucial role in maintaining safety and security. Their responsibilities encompass various tasks such as patrolling, monitoring, enforcing security measures, and responding to emergencies. Along with the necessary hard skills related to firearms, technology, and emergency procedures, soft skills like communication, observation, and integrity are equally important for an effective Armed Security Officer. By possessing the right combination of skills, professionals in this field can contribute to creating a secure environment for individuals, property, and assets.

Disclaimer: The responsibilities and skills mentioned in this blog post may vary depending on the specific job requirements and regulations in different locations. It is essential to consider local laws and industry standards when pursuing a career as an Armed Security Officer.