Moving from the Armed Forces to a career in security
Category: Recruitment
Publish date: 02/10/2023
Making a move from the Armed Forces to a career in security is a natural step for many veterans, with both industries sharing a clear focus on safety, protection and enforcement.
Those making the move often find they have many transferable skills and appreciate the camaraderie and teamwork element that a security role can offer.
At Venture Security, this is something we know a lot about, with many of our team members having joined us from a military background. Being based in Andover and working across Hampshire, Wiltshire and Berkshire – all areas with a high military population – it’s naturally just been part of the territory.
However, our commitment to Service leavers isn’t because of our location. We’re also proud to have signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant, confirming our commitment to the regulars, reservists and veterans who are keen to enter the security industry and forge a new career for themselves.
Want to work in security?
For those who are interested in a career in security, here are some of the top questions we’re often asked by Service leavers.
1. How easy is it to transition from the Armed Forces to a job in security?
It very much depends on the individual, their experience and expectations.
Making the switch itself is relatively straightforward. However, working in security won’t be right for everyone. Depending on the type of security job you go for, you may be working independently and during unsociable hours. Which is why we work hard as an employer to provide a pleasant experience for our team members. At Venture, you always have the support of your team, and someone will be on the end of the phone, at any time of the day or night, should you need them. This culture of teamwork and camaraderie is something both we – and our security officers - highly value.
2. What skills do I need to work in security?
Having strong communication skills, great attention to detail and the ability to remain calm under pressure, are all very important. Integrity, courage and the ability to retain a sense of humour when the chips are down are also essential traits in the best security officers.
Many people joining us from the military come with a host of transferable skills and experience, which together form a fantastic foundation for a career in security.
This includes:
- Impeccable radio communication skills
- Being well practised at spotting threats
- Exceptional time keeping
- An understanding of the challenges of working nights
- Experience working away from home
- Adaptability - particularly when under pressure
- Ability to think under pressure
- Knowing how to look after yourself and your kit in any weather
- Taking pride in your appearance
- Working as part of a close-knit team
3. What do I need to do to work in private security?
To work as a security officer in the UK, you need to hold a valid Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence. However, before you apply for your license via the SIA website, you’ll have to undertake certain training and achieve a ‘licence-linked’ qualification.
You need to be 18 or over and must get your training from an approved training provider. It’s important to note that when you apply, it can then take up to 6 weeks (sometimes longer) for your license application to be granted.
The maximum penalty for working without an SIA licence is six months in prison, with a potential fine of £5,000. There are, however, some unlicensed security roles available – for example, seasonal and event security roles, such as stewarding, which can be used to gain an insight into whether the industry is right for you.
4. What type of jobs are available in security?
There are many different types of security roles available, including:
Mobile patrol officers A mobile security officer will usually work independently throughout the night, driving round and visiting various business premises to carry out an agreed number of premises patrols and checks.
Manned guarding Also referred to as static guarding, this is where a security officer will typically look after one particular property or location and perform a range of duties as required. This may include front of house duties and on-site patrols.
City centre security officer (CCSO or Ranger) These officers work in town and city centre locations, where they help tackle anti-social behaviour, support retailers and residents, and provide a customer service role for visitors.
Event security officer Security officers who work as part of an event security team may look after security for a one-off/seasonal event, or a series of events such as those hosted by sporting venues. There are also event roles for unlicensed personnel which can be an opportunity to gain experience before taking the step to attaining your SIA licence.
Close protection officer (CPO) Also referred to as a bodyguard, a CPO will usually guard an individual and/or their family, as they go about their daily lives. They may also accompany a client on trips and drive them to and from venues.
Interested in a career in security?
Venture Security is ranked among the top 1% of security companies in the UK.
Our specialist team works with businesses big and small, based across Winchester, Andover, Salisbury, Basingstoke, Fareham and the wider central-southern region.
If you’d like to find out more about the positions we currently have available, simply search for “Venture Security Management Limited” on CTP RightJob.