If you are considering a job as a security job in New Hampshire, there are a few steps you need to take first.
Read on for some info on the licensing process and how you can start your new career.
Article Table of Contents
Security Guard Description and Requirements
A security guard has to ensure a property is kept safe against intruders.
There are many job tasks you will have to fulfill, that include:
- Working together with law enforcement to report any suspicious incidents
- Ensure that the laws are respected on your employer’s property
- Keep an eye on TV cameras and alarms
- Patrol a designated area
- Write reports about what you found during your checkups
- Interview witnesses in the case of criminal activity
A security guard should also have some skills, which include:
- Solid communication skills
- Ability to decide fast
- Empathy skills with the customers
- Know how to use a gun if needed
- Knowledge of public safety
- Know the laws and regulations in New Hampshire
- Work well alone but also in a team
Security Guards Training in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, you need to get a security guard license.
These are issued by The Support Services Bureau, Permits and Licensing Unit.
If you want to get a permit fast, you can enroll in a short training program.
The program will help you develop your skills in order to pass the licensing exam.
You can also choose to get an associate’s degree, which takes longer to finish.
Although you will be in school for about 2 years, you can get increased career opportunities in the future.
While studying, you will attend hours of theory and practice.
The theory hours include the next topics:
- Employer policies and orientation
- Post orders
- Officer safety
- Evacuation procedures
- Access control
- Trespassing
- Advanced arrests, search and seizure
- Laws and regulations
- First aid and CPR
- Workplace violence
- Handling difficult people
- Crowd control
- Preserving incidence scenes
- Driver safety
- Chemical agents
- Courtroom demeanor
- Supervision
- Radio procedures
- Parking and traffic control
- School security guard training
- Executive protection
- Baton training
- Fire safety
- Using an air taser or stun gun
- Public relations and communication
- Observation and documentation
- Legal aspects and liability
Applying for a Security Guard Certification in New Hampshire
In order to fulfill the licensing requirements, you have to:
- Be 18 years of age
- Pass a drug test, as it is required by most employers
- A background check which may include your driving experience
- It is based on your fingerprints
- A high-school diploma or GED
- EMT certification
- The training diploma signed by your supervisor
- The registration fee of $40 for unarmed guards and an extra $26.50 for an armed guard
Becoming an Armed Security Guard
Security guards who want to carry a gun need to comply with extra requirements.
You will need to take a specific class in order to get this permit.
This class needs to be attended every year after you get your license.
The training subjects should cover:
- Firearm familiarization
- Safe handling
- Shooting judgment
- Issues regarding the use of deadly force
- Civil and criminal liability
The training should be done by an instructor who got a license from one of the next entities:
- National Rifle Association
- Smith & Wesson
- SIG Sauer
- Police Standards and Training Council
- FBI
You will also need to pass an accuracy test with a score of at least 75%.
If you don’t get this certification, you will still be allowed to work as a non-armed security guard.
You will also need to provide 3 reference letters from past employers.
If you have been convicted before or have a history of mental illness, you need to provide extra details.
Becoming an Individual Security Guard
As an individual security guard, you will be able to start your own company.
For this, you need to submit a $50,000 surety bond.
You also need to pay a $180 fee that includes fingerprints and the background check.
How to work as a security guard in the public sector in New Hampshire
To practice in the public sector in New Hampshire, you have to:
- Learn state and agency policies and procedures
- Learn to operate electronic monitoring devices
- Communicate with various groups, from visitors to government officials
- Operate vehicles and equipment
- Handle emergency situations calmly
- Administer first aid and CPR
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have a high-school diploma or a GED
- One year of experience in the industry, including military and law enforcement
Salaries for Security Guards in New Hampshire
This state provides higher salaries to security guards with some experience.
This is also the case if you run your own business or live in a metropolitan area.
Generally, entry-level security guards earn a lower salary.
Annual Salary Range:Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
---|---|
Manchester | $41,799 |
Nashua | $44,162 |
Concord | $42,044 |
Derry | $42,933 |
Dover | $41,718 |
Rochester | $41,547 |
Salem | $43,511 |
Merrimack | $44,162 |
Londonderry | $44,162 |
Hudson | $44,162 |
Regional Salary in New Hampshire
Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dover-Durham, NH-ME | 140 | $38,840 | $18.68 | $49,470 | $24,750 |
Manchester, NH | 590 | $42,940 | $20.64 | $52,740 | $35,390 |
Portsmouth, NH-ME | 350 | $41,260 | $19.84 | $52,400 | $28,830 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Additional Information
The most important aspect is to finish your training and get hired.
This will help you develop a lucrative career in this industry.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Security Guard