Explore Careers

Security Officers

Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security

Service Branches

  • navy logo
  • Air Force logo

Work Environment

Security officers in the Military usually work in offices while planning and directing law enforcement and security activities. They may work outdoors while directing investigations observing prisoners and inspecting security systems.

  • Military Status

    Officer

  • Average Military Salary

    $53,402

Overview

Security officers plan, administer, and supervise law enforcement and physical security efforts. They establish guidance on, and coordinate, law enforcement and physical security policy, procedures and practices, anti-terrorism, drug enforcement, customs inspections, and crime prevention. Security officers coordinate security exercises and inspections to ensure consistency and program awareness. They are responsible for organizing, staffing, overseeing, and training military security reaction forces.

Military Training

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving.   Job training for security officers primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments.  Like other officers they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities military structure and etiquette traditions and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include:  

  • Military law
  • Law enforcement administration
  • Management of security problems
  • Investigation procedures and reporting

Helpful Attributes

  • Interest in law enforcement and crime prevention
  • Interest in planning and directing the work of others
  • Excellent communication skills

Related Civilian Careers

  • Police Identification and Records Officers
  • Supervisors of Police and Detectives
  • Security Guards
  • Emergency Management Directors