| |

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.

Similar Posts