What It’s Like Working as a Security Guard in a Hospital, School, or Office Building
Becoming a licensed security guard in New York opens doors to a wide variety of job environments. While the core responsibilities—ensuring safety, observing surroundings, and reporting incidents—are consistent, the day-to-day experience can vary dramatically depending on where you work.
In this post, we’ll break down what it’s like to work as a security guard in hospitals, schools, and office buildings, so you can choose the right path for your career.
🏥 Hospital Security Guard: Fast-Paced and High-Stakes
What to Expect:
- Constant foot traffic from patients, visitors, and staff
- Handling medical emergencies and patient outbursts
- Monitoring entrances, especially in emergency rooms
Key Skills Needed:
- Calm under pressure
- Strong communication skills
- Basic medical emergency awareness
Pros: Steady hours, high demand
Challenges: Stressful situations, dealing with grief or aggression
🏫 School Security Guard: Focused on Youth Safety
What to Expect:
- Checking IDs and screening visitors
- Building positive relationships with students and staff
- Responding to incidents like fights or unauthorized access
Key Skills Needed:
- Patience and people skills
- Conflict de-escalation techniques
- Knowledge of child safety protocols
Pros: Predictable schedule (school hours), meaningful community work
Challenges: Emotional challenges, occasional tension with parents or students
🏢 Office Building Security Guard: Routine and Professional
What to Expect:
- Access control and surveillance monitoring
- Patrolling floors and parking areas
- Interacting with employees and delivery personnel
Key Skills Needed:
- Tech-savvy (for CCTV systems)
- Professional demeanor
- Detail-oriented
Pros: Less stressful, climate-controlled environment
Challenges: Repetitive tasks, occasional long hours
Choosing the Right Path
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-filled shifts at a hospital, meaningful interaction in schools, or a quieter professional setting in office buildings, the New York City security guard industry offers a role that fits your personality and career goals.
Get Certified with Star Security Training
At Star Security Training, we prepare you for all types of guard roles. From your 8-Hour Pre-Assignment to On-the-Job Training and Annual Renewals, our courses are designed to set you up for success—no matter where you choose to work.
📍 Located next to the Ralph Avenue C train station
📞 Call us at 718-773-5000 or visit starsecuritytraining.com for more information.