Security Officer
New York, United StatesCompany
Columbia University
Location
New York, NY (+2 others)
Job Type
Full-time
Via
via Careers At Columbia University
Apply On
Job Description
• Job Type: Support Staff - Union
• Bargaining Unit: TWU - Security
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• End Date if Temporary:
• Hours Per Week: 40
• Standard Work Schedule:
• Building:
• Salary Range: $25.76 - $25.76
The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
Position Summary
The Security Officer protects Columbia University personnel and facilities against the hazards of fire, accidents and vandalism; maintains law and order, and enforces all regulations, including those in manual for Security Officers.
Responsibilities
• The Security Officer protects Columbia University personnel and facilities against the hazards of fire, accidents and vandalism.
• Maintains law and order, and enforces all regulations, including those in manual for Security Officers.
• Protects the building structure and grounds to which officer is assigned, including the contents, occupants and visitors.
• Patrols as assigned and seeks out and takes preventive action against existing hazards or conditions which may cause injury, damage or interference with the usual operation, and reports same immediately.
• Guides visitors in a courteous manner and assists as directed.
• Returns lost or found articles to Public Safety Office.
• Assists ill or injured persons in obtaining care and treatment, and reports such event immediately by radio or telephone and on proper report forms.
• Maintains order on post and makes request for necessary assistance from law enforcement agencies.
• Makes court appearances as required.
• The Security Officer may be assigned to any of the Columbia University Manhattan Campuses.
Minimum Qualifications
• High school diploma and/or its equivalent required. Candidates given a tentative/conditional job offer must possess and maintain a valid NYS Guard License as a requirement, NYS Dept. of State's 8 hour mandated certificate of training required.
• Must be physically fit and able to pass a physical exam.
• The incumbent should be able to engage in strenuous physical activity, including climbing stairs, as well as standing or sitting for long periods of time.
• Must also be willing and able to perform duty in inclement weather conditions.
• Ability to write legible reports, use a portable radio, and use judgment that is sound and proper when addressing emergency situations.
Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.
• Bargaining Unit: TWU - Security
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• End Date if Temporary:
• Hours Per Week: 40
• Standard Work Schedule:
• Building:
• Salary Range: $25.76 - $25.76
The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
Position Summary
The Security Officer protects Columbia University personnel and facilities against the hazards of fire, accidents and vandalism; maintains law and order, and enforces all regulations, including those in manual for Security Officers.
Responsibilities
• The Security Officer protects Columbia University personnel and facilities against the hazards of fire, accidents and vandalism.
• Maintains law and order, and enforces all regulations, including those in manual for Security Officers.
• Protects the building structure and grounds to which officer is assigned, including the contents, occupants and visitors.
• Patrols as assigned and seeks out and takes preventive action against existing hazards or conditions which may cause injury, damage or interference with the usual operation, and reports same immediately.
• Guides visitors in a courteous manner and assists as directed.
• Returns lost or found articles to Public Safety Office.
• Assists ill or injured persons in obtaining care and treatment, and reports such event immediately by radio or telephone and on proper report forms.
• Maintains order on post and makes request for necessary assistance from law enforcement agencies.
• Makes court appearances as required.
• The Security Officer may be assigned to any of the Columbia University Manhattan Campuses.
Minimum Qualifications
• High school diploma and/or its equivalent required. Candidates given a tentative/conditional job offer must possess and maintain a valid NYS Guard License as a requirement, NYS Dept. of State's 8 hour mandated certificate of training required.
• Must be physically fit and able to pass a physical exam.
• The incumbent should be able to engage in strenuous physical activity, including climbing stairs, as well as standing or sitting for long periods of time.
• Must also be willing and able to perform duty in inclement weather conditions.
• Ability to write legible reports, use a portable radio, and use judgment that is sound and proper when addressing emergency situations.
Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about Security Guard Jobs in United States
What is the median annual salary for security guards in the United States in 2026?
As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for security guards is $41,170 in 2026. Entry-level wages at the 10th percentile are $29,970 annually or $14.41 per hour, while top earners at the 90th percentile make $59,920 annually. Full-time positions assume 2,080 hours per year at the median hourly rate of $19.80.
Can non-US citizens work as security guards without sponsorship in 2026?
As per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, non-citizens must have valid employment authorization via EAD, green card, or eligible visa like H-2B to work as security guards in 2026; B-1/B-2 tourist visas prohibit all employment. Many employers require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency for roles involving access to sensitive areas. H-2B visas cap at 66,000 annually nationwide, with applications due by April 2026 for FY2027.
What education or experience is required for entry-level security guard jobs?
As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a high school diploma or GED is the minimum education required for most security guard jobs in 2026, with no college degree needed. Entry-level roles provide 1-3 months of on-the-job training; prior experience in customer service or military adds preference but is not mandatory. About 34% of guards have postsecondary certificates.
What licenses are needed to work as a security guard in most US states in 2026?
As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 42 states plus DC require security guards to obtain a state-issued license in 2026, typically involving a criminal background check, 8-40 hours of training, and a $50-$150 fee. Licenses must be renewed every 1-2 years with 8 continuing education hours. Federal positions may require additional TSA or DOE clearances.
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