What is the hourly wage range for security guard jobs (NOC 64410) in Canada in 2026?

As per Government of Canada's Job Bank, security guards earn $16.00 per hour at the low wage level, $18.50 per hour median, and $25.00 per hour at the high wage level nationally. Full-time annual salaries range from $33,280 to $52,000 based on 2,080 hours per year. Wages are higher in territories like Nunavut at $28.00 per hour median. Source: Government of Canada's Job Bank (https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/)

Do I need a license to work as a security guard in Ontario, and what is the cost in 2026?

As per Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General, a security guard licence is mandatory, costs $80 to obtain, and is valid for 2 years. Applicants must complete 40 hours of approved training costing $100-$200, pass an exam, and provide a criminal record check with fingerprints ($65 fee). Renewals cost $70 every 2 years. Source: Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General (https://www.ontario.ca/page/apply-security-guard-licence-or-private-investigator-licence)

What work permit is required for international job seekers applying for security guard jobs in Canada in 2026?

As per Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, security guards under NOC 64410 (TEER 4) need an employer-specific work permit via Temporary Foreign Worker Program with positive LMIA, where employers pay $1,000 LMIA fee. The work permit application fee is $155, valid up to 3 years with extensions possible. Processing takes 2-4 months. Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) (https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit/temporary/eligibility.html)

What education, training, and experience are needed for entry-level security guard jobs in Canada?

As per Government of Canada's Job Bank, secondary school completion is usually required along with 1-3 months of on-the-job training for NOC 64410 roles. A provincial licence, first aid/CPR certification, and clean criminal record are mandatory in regulated provinces. No prior experience is needed for most entry-level positions. Source: Government of Canada's Job Bank (https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/)

What are the working hours, overtime, and vacation benefits for security guards in Ontario?

As per Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, overtime pay at 1.5 times the regular rate applies after 44 hours per week, with minimum 11 consecutive hours off daily and 24 consecutive hours off weekly. Employees get 2 weeks paid vacation (4% of gross earnings) after 1 year, increasing to 3 weeks (6%) after 5 years. 9 public holidays provide regular wages or 1.5 times pay if worked. Source: Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (https://www.ontario.ca/document/your-guide-employment-standards-act-0)

How much federal and Ontario provincial tax will I pay on a $45,000 security guard salary in 2026?

As per Canada Revenue Agency, for the 2025 tax year filed in 2026, federal tax is 15% on income up to $57,375 after $16,129 basic personal amount credit, resulting in about $3,500 federal tax on $45,000. Ontario provincial tax is 5.05% on the first $51,446, adding approximately $2,000. Total tax payable is around $5,500 before other credits. Source: Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) (https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/frequently-asked-questions-individuals/canadian-income-tax-rates-individuals-current-previous-years.html)

What common scams target security guard job seekers in Canada and how to avoid them?

As per Government of Canada's Job Bank, scams often involve fake employers demanding upfront payments of $200-$1,000 for uniforms, training, or licences. Always verify postings on Job Bank, never pay to secure a job, and check employer registration with provincial ministries. Report scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or at 1-888-495-8501. Source: Government of Canada's Job Bank (https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/findajob/job-scams)

Security Guard Jobs in Canada: Real Scoop

Man, security guard jobs in Canada? They're everywhere right now. From what I've seen, cities like Toronto and Vancouver are packed with openings. Not gonna lie, it's a solid gig if you like staying alert and helping folks out.

Why bother with this job?

Look, it's steady work. Shifts can be nights or days, and demand's high in retail spots, events, hospitals—even construction sites. Thing is, you don't need a fancy degree. Just some training and a clean record.

Honestly? Pays the bills while you figure out bigger plans. I've known guys who started here and moved up to supervisor quick.

Infographic: Security Guard Jobs in Canada

Job types you'll run into

Retail patrols—watching shoppers, dealing with shoplifters.
Event security—concerts, sports games. Fun but chaotic.
Corporate buildings—mostly quiet, checking IDs.
Mobile patrols—driving around sites after hours.

Big variety. Pick what fits your vibe.

How to actually land one

First off, get licensed. Every province has rules. Ontario? Private Security and Investigative Services Act—need that guard card. Costs about $80, plus a course.

BC's got the Provincial Security Guard Training. Quick online stuff too. From my experience, skip the cheap fly-by-nights; go for ones recognized by the province.

Background check's mandatory. No felonies, duh. And yeah, be 19 or older most places.

Here's the thing—brush up on first aid. Makes you stand out.

Training breakdown

Usually 40 hours for basics: use of force, emergency levels, legal powers. Costs $100-300. Do it online or in-class.

Some spots want armed training if you're into that, but unarmed's 90% of jobs.

Not great if you're scared of confrontation, though. You gotta stay calm.

What's the pay like?

Averages $18-25/hour. Toronto? Closer to $22. Alberta oil sites pay more, like $30+.

Nights and weekends bump it up 1.5x. Full-time? $40k-55k a year easy.

Perks? Free uniforms sometimes, gym discounts. Unions in some big companies too.

Real talk—entry-level starts low, but overtime adds up fast.

Hot spots for jobs

Toronto's insane—malls, condos, airports. Vancouver for events and hotels. Calgary if you like energy sector gigs.

Small towns? Less pay, but chill vibes.

Check Indeed, Workopolis, or provincial job banks. Companies like GardaWorld, Paladin? They're hiring non-stop.

Pro tip: Walk into agencies. Handshakes beat emails.

Tips to get hired quick

Stay fit. Walking patrols all shift? No joke.
Customer service skills. You're not just a tough guy—talk nice.
Flex schedule. Nights pay better.
Network on LinkedIn. Security groups there are gold.
Ask about advancement. Many train you for more.

One more—wear clean clothes to interviews. Obvious, but yeah.

From what I've seen, bilingual? French-English? Quebec jobs love that.

Common pitfalls

Don't sleep on renewals—licenses expire yearly. And attitudes get you fired fast. Patience, man.

Wanna go armed? Extra training, stricter checks. Not for everyone.

Exactly. Start small, build experience.

So, if you're eyeing security guard jobs in Canada, dive in. It's not glamorous, but reliable. Hit me up if you've got questions—I've got stories.

Security Guard Jobs