What it is
Security careers cover a wide range of roles that protect people, property and information. Common paths include unarmed and armed security officers, executive protection specialists, loss prevention staff, and campus, healthcare or event security.
Armed security guard jobs involve carrying a firearm as part of the role, and they usually come with added licensing, training and qualification steps. Executive protection focuses on the safety of specific individuals, often involving planning, awareness and discretion as much as physical presence.
Requirements vary by state and by employer. A guard card, permit or licence may be needed even for entry-level work, and firearms roles add further rules. Always confirm current requirements with your state licensing board or the hiring agency.
Veterans often bring skills such as reliability, situational awareness and teamwork. Whether those skills fit a given role is something the employer decides, and each person's path looks different.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Traditionally, many people enter private security through a licensed guard company or a direct employer. They complete required training, apply for a state guard card or equivalent, and begin with site-based roles before exploring other directions.
Others move toward specialty areas over time, such as executive protection, investigations or loss prevention, sometimes adding courses or certifications along the way. Some people come from military or law enforcement backgrounds, while others start from scratch.
Public-sector options, such as police work, follow separate standards set by state POST boards and individual agencies. Federal hiring may involve veterans' preference, which you can confirm through USAJOBS. Programs like SkillBridge, the GI Bill and VA services may also be relevant, and eligibility should be confirmed with the VA, the Department of Labor (VETS) or your command.
How the right employer may help
The right employer may help you understand what a role really involves, which licences it requires, and whether training is provided or must be completed beforehand. A good conversation is a chance to learn, not a promise of an offer.
A typical first conversation covers the site or client, the schedule, uniform and equipment expectations, and the training you would receive. For armed roles, a reputable employer will explain how firearms qualification works under federal (ATF) and state rules, and will put safety first.
Useful questions to ask include: Which state licences does this role require? Who pays for training, and is anything expected to be repaid? How are incidents handled and supported? What does advancement look like? Remember that you should never pay to apply, and never share bank details before a formal offer.
The bigger picture
Choosing a career is also a whole-person decision. Security work can offer a sense of purpose and structure, but shift schedules, long hours on your feet and high-alert environments can affect sleep, stress and family life. It helps to think about the pace and setting that feel sustainable for you.
Money matters too, and it is wise to look at the full picture, including licensing costs, equipment and commuting, before committing. If you want to explore wellbeing resources alongside your career planning, Providers.plus is one place to look. If you are ever in crisis, the 988 Lifeline is available.
Keep in mind
- Licensing and hiring requirements vary by state and agency, so confirm with your state board, the agency or the training program before acting.
- Firearms-related roles are subject to federal (ATF) and state rules, and safety training should always come first.
- Employers should hire without regard to protected characteristics, and no listing or page can guarantee a job, interview, salary or timeline.
- Beware of scams: never pay to apply for a job and never share bank details before an offer.
Guides in this topic
Employer types
Frequently asked questions
What are the best jobs for veterans in security?
There is no single best option, because it depends on your interests, background and local requirements. Common paths include armed and unarmed security officer roles, executive protection, loss prevention and facility security. Compare each role's licensing needs, schedule and training before deciding.
How do I get a guard card?
A guard card is typically obtained through your state's licensing authority after completing required training and an application, and rules differ by state. Some states use different names for the same credential. Check with your state's licensing board for the current steps.
What are armed security guard jobs like?
Armed security guard jobs generally involve protecting a site, people or assets while carrying a firearm, with added licensing and qualification requirements. Federal (ATF) and state rules may apply, and employers should emphasize safety and training. Ask any employer exactly what is required and who covers the cost.
What is executive protection?
Executive protection is the practice of keeping a specific person, such as a business leader or public figure, safe. It often involves advance planning, route and venue awareness, and discretion. Training pathways and requirements vary, so ask employers what they expect.
Where can I find security officer jobs near me?
You can start by browsing the 2A Careers directory, then check local security companies, employers' own career pages and official job boards. Searching by your city and the type of role helps narrow results. Always confirm the employer is real and never pay to apply.
Do veterans get hiring preference for security jobs?
Veterans' preference applies to certain federal hiring and is not a guarantee of a job. Private employers set their own policies. Confirm your eligibility through USAJOBS, the VA, the Department of Labor (VETS) or your command.
Educational resource. 2A Careers shares general information and connects people with independent employers. It is not professional advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your own situation.