Security guard

What does a security guard do? – Tasks and work environment

A security guard is responsible for maintaining order and safety at public places such as subways, squares, events, and in some cases within courts or other government environments. The profession involves preventing and intervening in disturbances, managing conflicts, and collaborating with police and other authorities when needed. The work environment is often characterized by shift work, sometimes late evenings and weekends, and varying workplaces where both physical and mental stress can occur. A security guard needs to be prepared for quick adjustments and have a high level of readiness to handle unforeseen situations with calmness and professionalism.

Salary development over time

Salaries for security guards have shown stable and positive development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,900 SEK per month, increasing to 32 800 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the salary continued to rise to an average of 34 300 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.5% over the period. This trend reflects an increased focus on security in society and ongoing high demand for the profession. Salary increases can also be linked to recruitment difficulties and increased competition for qualified personnel, especially in metropolitan areas where the need for safety is prominent. Despite the positive trend, differences between genders and regions still exist, but overall, the profession has experienced good salary growth in recent years.

Security guard salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 34 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,200 SEK/month (female, regional sector, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 37,600 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-high school education)
• Hourly wage: 206 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 34 600 SEK, women 33 500 SEK (women earn 97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur, especially between larger cities and smaller towns

Education and qualifications

To work as a security guard, a special training approved by the Swedish Police Authority is required. The formal training is relatively short but demands high suitability, lawfulness, and good judgment. Many employers prefer candidates with previous experience in service, security, or working with people. After training, approval and appointment from the police are necessary.

• Training: Basic training for security guards, approximately 80 hours
• Certification: Approval and appointment from the Swedish Police Authority
• Prerequisites: At least 20 years old, clean criminal record, good health, and law-abiding
• Practical training: Often internship or trainee period with the employer after training
• Tips for applicants: Experience in security, service, or social work is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Security guards are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to overtime pay, holiday compensation, and sometimes wellness allowances. Many employers also offer uniform allowances, further training, and the possibility of overtime pay for extra shifts. Pension schemes and insurance coverage are generally included, providing a secure framework for employment.

Competition and challenges

The job market for security guards is characterized by high demand but also some recruitment difficulties. Many positions are available, but employers set high requirements for personal suitability and the ability to handle stressful situations. Mental and physical strain is common, especially during late evenings and weekends when workload can increase. Competition is greater in metropolitan areas where more people seek the profession, but the need is also higher there. A challenge is maintaining the balance between authority and service, and being able to handle threatening situations without escalation.

Tips for those who want to become security guards

To succeed as a security guard, it is good to combine a calm temperament with high stress tolerance, as unexpected situations can arise quickly. Developing good communication skills is important since much of the work involves preventing conflicts and creating safety through dialogue. Physical endurance is also an advantage, especially during shift work and long shifts. Being attentive and able to read people and situations provides strong support in daily work, as does maintaining integrity and following established rules even under pressure. Lastly, showing empathy is valuable, as the profession often involves meeting people in vulnerable situations where respectful treatment can make a big difference.

Key facts about security guards

• Education level: Basic training for security guards, approximately 80 hours
• Work environment: Varied, often shift work and public environments
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Typical employment: Through security companies, public sector, or municipalities
• Special skills: Conflict management and communication

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a security guard can advance to supervisory roles, trainers in the security industry, or further education as a guard, security officer, or security coordinator. According to the Swedish Employment Agency's forecasts, job opportunities remain large, even though demand is expected to be unchanged over five years. The industry faces a combination of recruitment challenges and some turnover, providing good chances for new applicants. Working as a security guard also provides valuable experience for other roles within security and public administration. In total, there were 191 job openings in the profession at the latest measurement.

Common questions about security guards

• What is the average salary of a security guard?
  - The average salary for a security guard is 34 300 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a security guard?
  - Basic training of approximately 80 hours approved by the Swedish Police Authority and appointment are required.
• What are the gender differences in salary for security guards?
  - Men earn on average 34 600 SEK, women 33 500 SEK (97% of men's salary).
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a security guard?
  - The highest salary is 37,600 SEK (female, public sector), the lowest is 33,200 SEK (female, regional sector).
• What are the future prospects for security guards?
  - The job market is expected to have great opportunities, with unchanged demand over five years according to the Swedish Employment Agency.
• What work environments do security guards work in?
  - Usually in public places, squares, events, public transport, and sometimes courts.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries vary between larger cities and smaller towns.