Airport guard

What does an airport security guard do? – Tasks and work environment

An airport security guard works to maintain safety at airports, for travelers, staff, and property. Responsibilities include passenger and baggage checks, monitoring entry and exit points, patrolling airport areas, and handling security-related incidents. The work often involves shifts, including day and night shifts, as well as work during weekends and holidays. The security guard maintains close contact with the public and other security functions, which requires good communication skills and the ability to handle stressful situations. The work environment is dynamic and characterized by high safety standards, where teamwork and vigilance are crucial.

Salary development over time

The salary for airport security guards has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, which increased to 32 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 34 300 SEK. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.5% over the three-year period. The salary development can partly be explained by increased demand for security personnel in the transport sector and the industry's higher requirements for qualified workers. At the same time, the salary increase has been slightly above inflation, indicating that employers value experience and education in the profession. Salary differences between genders still occur, with women earning on average 97% of men's salaries.

Airport security guard salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,200 SEK
• Highest salary: 37,600 SEK
• Hourly wage (average): 206 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 33 500 SEK (97% of men's salary), men earn 34 600 SEK
• Regional differences: Lowest salary for women is in the regional sector (33,200 SEK), highest in the public sector (37,600 SEK)

Education and qualifications

To work as an airport security guard, a high school diploma is usually required, often supplemented with security guard training and specialized courses in airport security. Many employers also require internships or experience in the security industry. Basic requirements include Swedish citizenship, a criminal record extract, and good physical health. The training is often provided by authorized training providers and can be supplemented with internal courses at the workplace.

• High school education: Usually 3 years, preferably with a focus on security
• Security guard training: Basic training (VU1 and VU2) via authorized trainers
• Special courses: Airport-specific security training and ID card courses
• Internship: Often a requirement for practical training or introductory employment
• Prerequisites: Swedish citizenship, criminal record extract, good health

Common benefits and allowances

Airport security guards often have access to benefits such as overtime pay for evening and night work, wellness allowances, and sometimes subsidized meals. Other common allowances include extra pay for work during major holidays and opportunities for further training in security. Occupational pension and insurance are usually included in the employment.

Competition and challenges

The job market for airport security guards is characterized by good employment opportunities, but there is also a paradoxical recruitment situation where both recruitment difficulties and high turnover exist. Competition for positions at larger airports can be intense, especially at attractive workplaces and for the most experienced guards. Challenges in the profession include the requirement for constant vigilance, working under pressure, and the need to quickly handle unexpected situations. Physical and mental endurance are important qualities to meet the demands of the job over time.

Tips for those who want to become an airport security guard

To succeed as an airport security guard, it is good to be attentive and have good multitasking skills, as the work often involves quickly identifying potential risks in a dynamic environment. Being service-oriented and patient facilitates interactions with travelers from different cultures and backgrounds. It is also important to be stress-resistant, as unexpected events can occur and must be handled calmly and methodically. The ability to collaborate and communicate clearly with colleagues and other authorities is crucial to ensure a safe working environment. Good physical condition is an advantage, as patrolling and long working hours are common. Continuously updating oneself and staying informed about new security procedures increases safety and opportunities for advancement within the profession.

Key facts about airport security guards

• Education level: High school education with supplementary security guard training
• Work environment: Airport environment with shift work and high safety standards
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially at larger airports
• Common work form: Full-time, often in shifts
• Special skills: Security routines, conflict management, and basic language skills

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an airport security guard, there are opportunities to advance to leadership roles such as team leader or security trainer. Some choose to further qualify as a security officer or security coordinator, which often involves more responsibility and higher salary. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for the occupations of security guards and security officers, job opportunities are expected to remain high, with demand remaining stable over the next five years. The high turnover in the profession means there are continuously available positions; for example, there were 191 job openings in the field during the latest survey. Employers value experience, flexibility, and further training, which can contribute to a long-term and stable career in the security industry.

Frequently asked questions about airport security guards

• What is the average salary of an airport security guard?
  - An airport security guard has an average salary of 34 300 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 34 600 SEK and women 33 500 SEK, which means women earn 97% of men's salaries.
• What does the salary development look like for airport security guards?
  - The salary development has been positive, increasing from 31,900 SEK in 2022 to 34 300 SEK in 2024.
• What education is required to become an airport security guard?
  - High school education and security guard training are basic requirements, often supplemented with airport-specific courses.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for airport security guards?
  - The highest salary is 37,600 SEK and the lowest is 33,200 SEK, depending on sector, gender, and education level.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand for airport security guards is considered high and relatively stable over the next five years.
• What personal qualities are important for an airport security guard?
  - Attention, stress tolerance, good communication, and service orientation are key qualities.