Looking to build a stable career in the United States with the added benefit of visa sponsorship? Security Guard Jobs in the USA with Visa Sponsorship might be your pathway to a new life. As the need for skilled security professionals rises across various sectors, U.S. employers are increasingly open to hiring qualified international candidates, even offering visa sponsorship to meet demand.
In this article, we’ll explore what you need to know about security guard jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship, including what the job entails, salary expectations, top-paying cities, and the steps you need to take to secure a job with visa sponsorship in the U.S.
Who is a Security Guard?
A security guard is responsible for maintaining the safety and security of premises, assets, and personnel. They play a vital role in preventing crime, deterring illegal activities, and responding quickly to emergencies.
Security guards may work in various environments, including office buildings, retail stores, industrial facilities, airports, and residential complexes. In addition to physical presence, some security guards are trained to monitor surveillance systems, manage access control, and report suspicious activities to law enforcement when necessary.
Security Guard Job Description
Security guard roles can vary depending on the employer, location, and the specific needs of the site. However, here are common duties a security guard may be expected to perform:
- Monitoring Premises: Patrolling designated areas, either on foot or by vehicle, to ensure they remain secure.
- Access Control: Checking identification, logging visitors, and managing entry and exit points.
- Surveillance Monitoring: Using cameras and alarm systems to monitor activities and detect unusual behavior.
- Incident Reporting: Recording and reporting incidents, safety hazards, or emergencies to the proper authorities.
- Emergency Response: Acting swiftly in the event of an emergency, such as providing first aid or evacuating the premises.
- Customer Service: Interacting with employees, visitors, or residents in a friendly and professional manner, as security guards are often the first point of contact.
Expected Minimum Salary in the USA for Security Guards
The minimum salary for security guards in the USA varies significantly by state, region, and type of position, with pay influenced by factors like local minimum wage laws, job responsibilities, and required experience or certifications.
On average, the starting pay for a security guard across the U.S. tends to range from $13.18 to $23.61 per hour for entry-level positions, which translates to an annual salary of approximately $30,510 to $54,662.
Benefits of Security Guard Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in the USA
Securing a job as a security guard with visa sponsorship in the U.S. can provide several advantages:
- Visa Sponsorship: Employers can sponsor foreign nationals for various work visas, such as the H-2B visa for temporary or seasonal employment or the H-1B visa for specialized security roles.
- Competitive Salaries: Security guards in the U.S. often earn more than they would in many other countries, providing financial stability and growth opportunities.
- Health and Retirement Benefits: Many companies provide medical insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits to full-time security employees.
- Career Advancement: Security guards have opportunities for advancement to positions such as security supervisor, security manager, or roles in law enforcement.
- Diverse Work Environments: Security guards can work in various settings, from corporate buildings to industrial sites, adding variety to their jobs.
Top 10 Highest-Paying Cities for Security Guards in the USA
The location of a security guard job can significantly impact salary levels. Here are the top-paying cities in the U.S. for security guards:
| Highest Paying Cities | Annual Salary | Monthly Salary | Hourly Salary |
| San Francisco, CA | $52,633 | $3,727 | $22.74 |
| Seattle, WA | $48,769 | $3,453 | $21.07 |
| Boston, MA | $47,901 | $3,391 | $20.69 |
| Washington, D.C. | $46,492 | $3,292 | $20.08 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $44,211 | $3,130 | $19.10 |
| New York City, NY | $42,853 | $3,034 | $18.51 |
| Miami, FL | $40,477 | $2,866 | $17.49 |
| Chicago, IL | $39,542 | $2,800 | $17.08 |
| Las Vegas, NV | $39,355 | $2,786 | $17.00 |
| Houston, TX | $33,409 | $2,365 | $14.43 |
Top Paying Companies for Security Guards in the USA
Several companies offer competitive salaries and excellent benefits for security guards. Some of the top employers in the industry include:
| Top Companies | Company Websites | Average Salary |
| Allied Universal | http://jobs.aus.com/ | $17.03 |
| Securitas | https://www.securitasinc.com/ | $15.25 |
| GardaWorld Security Services US | https://www.garda.com/security-services | $14.58 |
| Signal | http://www.teamsignal.com/ | $17.37 |
| Macy’s | http://www.macysjobs.com/ | $18.04 |
| Weiser Security Services | https://www.weisersecurity.com/ | $15.18 |
| Inter-Con Security Systems | https://www.icsecurity.com/ | $18.41 |
| Metro One LPSG | http://www.metroonelpsg.com/ | $18.78 |
| Inner Parish Security Corporation | http://ipsc.biz/ | $19.73 |
| GardaWorld | http://www.garda.com/ | $19.11 |
Types of Security Guard Jobs in the USA for Foreigners
There are various types of security guard roles available for foreigners, including:
Unarmed Security Guard
Primarily responsible for monitoring premises, enforcing rules, and ensuring general safety, unarmed security guards are commonly employed in retail, educational, and corporate settings. The average salary is around $31,200 per year, depending on the region and level of experience.
Armed Security Guard
Equipped with firearms, armed security guards protect high-risk areas like banks and government facilities. This role requires specialized training and licensing. They earn an average annual salary of about $42,000, reflecting the added responsibility and risk.
Corporate Security Officer
Corporate security officers focus on protecting company assets, monitoring visitor access, and ensuring employee safety in office settings. They typically make around $35,000 to $40,000 per year, with salaries varying based on the corporation’s size and location.
Event Security Guard
Often employed at large events like concerts and sports games, event security guards handle crowd control and conflict resolution. Their salaries are generally hourly and range from $15 to $18 per hour, which could lead to $30,000 or more annually depending on hours worked.
Residential Security Guard
These guards oversee the safety of residential communities or apartment complexes. Their duties include patrolling grounds, monitoring security systems, and checking visitor access. The average salary is about $32,000 annually.
Mall Security Guard
Found at shopping centers, mall security guards prevent shoplifting, monitor security cameras, and assist with lost items or emergencies. They earn around $31,000 per year, with part-time positions often available.
Transportation Security Officer (TSO)
TSOs, commonly associated with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), screen passengers and luggage at airports. This federal role requires specific training, offering salaries of around $40,000 to $45,000 annually due to the high-security level involved.
Gaming Surveillance Officer
Employed by casinos, these officers monitor gaming areas to prevent cheating and ensure patron safety. Using specialized equipment, they help protect casino assets, earning approximately $35,000 per year.
School Security Officer
School security officers work within educational institutions to ensure a safe environment for students and staff. They are responsible for monitoring visitor access and conducting patrols, with an average salary of around $34,000 annually.
Executive Protection Specialist
Sometimes called bodyguards, executive protection specialists safeguard high-profile individuals, including corporate leaders and celebrities. This high-risk role requires specialized training and can pay significantly higher, ranging from $50,000 to $80,000 depending on the client’s profile and risk level.
Requirements to Apply for Security Guard Jobs
To qualify for security guard jobs in the U.S., most employers require candidates to meet certain requirements:
- Age: Applicants must typically be at least 18 years old, or 21 for armed security roles.
- Educational Background: A high school diploma or GED is usually required.
- Licensing: Depending on the state and role, security guards may need a security license. Armed guards generally need a firearms permit.
- Background Check: Candidates must pass a criminal background check.
- Physical Fitness: Physical ability to perform tasks, especially for roles that require patrolling or standing for extended periods.
- Experience: Prior experience can be advantageous but is often not mandatory for entry-level roles.
USA Visa Sponsorship Process
Foreign workers interested in U.S. security guard roles can explore two primary visa options:
- H-2B Visa: A temporary work visa for non-agricultural jobs, often used for security roles in seasonal or peak-demand environments. This visa allows employers to hire foreign workers for up to a year, with the possibility of an extension.
- H-1B Visa: Although primarily for skilled positions, some specialized security roles may qualify. H-1B visas require the job to be in a specialized field and generally require a bachelor’s degree, which might be relevant for high-level security management positions.
Sponsorship Steps:
Job Offer and Sponsorship Agreement
The process begins when a U.S.-based employer offers you a job and agrees to sponsor your visa. This implies that they will submit the required documentation to make a work visa request on your behalf. Because of the distinct abilities or experiences that foreign workers offer to the position, some firms expressly hire them.
Employer Petition Submission
Your company will petition the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) when the job offer is finalized. This petition, Form I-129 for the H-2B visa, contains details on the employer, the job, and your qualifications. Before looking for foreign applicants, the firm must also demonstrate that they made an effort to hire local personnel.
Labor Certification Process
Certain visas, such as the H-2B, require the Department of Labor (DOL) to attest that hiring a foreign worker won’t have a negative impact on the pay of U.S. workers and that there aren’t enough American workers to do the task at the offered site.
To demonstrate that the position is legitimate and required, the employer must submit a labor certification application to the DOL.
Application and Consular Processing
You, the applicant, must then apply for the visa after USCIS approves the petition. Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application) must be filled out, and you must appear for a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your nation of residence.
Be ready to respond to inquiries concerning your history, the job offer, and whether you plan to return home once your employment in the United States is over.
Getting the visa and going to the United States
You will obtain your visa and be authorized to enter the United States if your application is accepted. Officials will examine your documents and confirm your work authorization during the customs check you will undergo upon arrival. You can then start working for your sponsoring employer as per the terms of your visa.
Compliance and Visa Renewal
It’s essential to comply with all visa requirements, including working only for your sponsoring employer and following any restrictions on duration and job duties. If your employment continues beyond the visa’s expiration date, your employer may apply for a renewal or extension.
How to Secure a Security Guard Job in the USA with Visa Sponsorship
To improve your chances of finding a security guard position in the U.S. with visa sponsorship, follow these steps:
Research Visa-Sponsoring Companies
Begin by identifying U.S.-based companies that are open to hiring international candidates and willing to sponsor visas. Larger companies, security firms, or those in sectors with high-security demands, like hospitality, retail, and logistics, are more likely to sponsor visas for qualified applicants.
Meet Job and Visa Requirements
Security guard positions in the U.S. may require specific qualifications, such as prior experience, a high school diploma, and sometimes a security license or certification (requirements vary by state). Having relevant experience in security, strong English language skills, and knowledge of basic security protocols will make you a more attractive candidate for visa sponsorship.
Update and Localize Your Resume
Your resume should highlight relevant skills, experience, and certifications that U.S. employers prioritize for security guard roles. Use industry-specific terms and emphasize any unique skills, such as familiarity with surveillance equipment, conflict resolution, and emergency response.
Apply Through Specialized Job Portals
Use job search platforms that cater to international job seekers looking for U.S. employment with visa sponsorship, such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and websites specializing in H-2B and other work visa jobs. Look for job postings that specifically mention visa sponsorship, and apply for these positions directly.
Prepare for the Interview
If shortlisted, you’ll likely go through a series of interviews. Familiarize yourself with the common requirements and standards for security guards in the U.S., such as punctuality, discipline, and clear communication skills.
During the interview, demonstrate how your experience aligns with the job responsibilities and emphasize your commitment to the role and understanding of the employer’s needs.
Follow Up and Build Professional Relationships
After interviews, send thank-you notes or follow-up emails to express your interest in the position and appreciation for the opportunity. Even if you don’t receive an offer immediately, maintaining a positive relationship can lead to future opportunities as your network grows.
Be Patient and Persistent
Landing a security guard job in the USA with visa sponsorship can take time. Keep applying to multiple openings, refining your resume, and learning more about the U.S. security job market.
Conclusion
This article provides a thorough look at how to secure a security guard position in the USA with visa sponsorship and details what to expect in terms of duties, salary, and job locations. By understanding the industry, meeting the job requirements, and navigating the visa sponsorship process, foreign nationals can secure rewarding security guard roles in the U.S.
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