Career in Security: Opportunities and Advancement in the Security Industry

Why pursue a career in security

The demand for skilled security professionals has never been higher with an increase in the crime rate growing year on year in Australia. This increase in crime is no surprise considering the growing population. The other important factor, and the most important, is the increase in pro-active security management, which is about having a strong security presence to prevent crime in the first place.  This mitigation strategy is largely achieved by a strong security presence, such as CCTV, signs, visible security officers. bollards, etc)

However, these two ‘characteristics’ do highlight the need to increase security measures across all business, and in some cases even personal arrangements (dropping kids off to school, protection of assets, etc) in order to stay on top of the increasing social, political, environmental, economic &  technology influences of today and in the foreseeable future.

Security officers contribute to protecting people, places and society, offering specialised services to prevent harm (in its many forms) from being actioned. This can vary from working at a music festival and controlling the crowd for aggressive behaviour or, protecting important people from harm in public spaces. Security officers offer a great service to the community, providing a high level of purpose and job satisfaction for those who choose to pursue this career.

Training and advancement in security 

If you are interested in pursuing a career in security operations, there are many training and certification programs available to help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed. Paragon Corporate Training offers a range of security courses that cover a wide variety of topics, including:

1. CPP20218 Cert II in Security Operations

The CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations is a nationally recognised and WA Police approved qualification in Australia that provides the essential knowledge and skills required for entry-level security work. The course covers various topics such as communication, first aid, legal and ethical responsibilities, risk assessment, and security operations procedures. Individuals who have no prior experience can take the course and upon completion they will be knowledgeable and skilled to enter the security workforce.

Completing this course can provide individuals with a pathway to a career in the security industry, including roles such as security officer, crowd controller, bodyguard and firearms or airport security officer. It can also provide individuals with the knowledge and skills to effectively respond to security situations in their personal or professional lives. Overall, completing the CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations can improve one’s job prospects, enhance personal safety, and contribute to a safer community.

2. CPP31418 Cert III in Close Personal Protection

Whilst the CPP20218 Cert II in Security Operations provides individuals with basic knowledge and skills required for entry-level security work, such as communication, first aid, and security operations procedures. On the other hand, the CPP31418 Cert III in Close Personal Protection is a higher-level qualification that focuses specifically on the skills and knowledge required to work as a personal protection officer, such as threat assessment, risk management, and protection techniques.

This certificate specialises in protect the safety and security of principals who may be celebrities, political figures, very important persons (VIPs) or other persons requiring close protection services. This certificate is recommended for those who are seeking to specialise in this field and advance their responsibilities.

3. CPP31318 Cert III in Security Operations

Following from CPP20218 Cert II in Security Operations, Cert III in Security Operations is a higher-level qualification that provides individuals with more specialised skills and knowledge required to work in the security industry. The course covers topics such as managing operational safety, conflict resolution, gathering and presenting security information/documentation and other expertise. Completing this course can provide individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to work as a security supervisor or manager. This is a recommended next step for those who have completed Cert II and are looking to advance in their career.

It’s important to note that complete beginners won’t be able to enrol in this course. Students must have completed the pre-requisite requirements such as: hold a current security licence, CPPSEC3115 (carry, operate and maintain revolvers for security purposes) and CPPSEC3116 (carry, operate and maintain semi-automatic pistols for security purposes).

4. CPP40719 Cert IV in Security Management

Ideal for OHS practitioners, safety and welfare officers, compliance auditors, business managers, police and emergency services and security consultants who are seeking to advance their career–CPP40719 Cert IV in Security Management is essential in building your career in security and HRM & WHS.

Although complete beginners can take this course, a high level of written English is required. Computer skills and typing skills are essential in order to complete your assignments and inability to understand the English language will prevent you from completing the course.

Any prior experience or study can be recognised through recognition of prior learning (RPL). Students will need to complete a RPL form of assessment, more details on this can be found here.

5. CPP41519 Cert IV in Security Risk Analysis

The CPP40719 – IV in Security Management is very closely aligned to CPP41519 Certificate IV in Security Risk Analysis, However, the CPP41519 Certificate IV in Security Risk Analysis is what you need for licensing as a security consultant with WAPOL (WA Police).

This course covers topics such as risk management, security planning, and security audit and review, and is suitable for individuals who are responsible for security risk analysis in their workplace.

Ideal for OHS practitioners, safety and welfare officers, compliance auditors, business managers, police and emergency services, police and emergency services and security consultants. Similar to Cert IV in Security Management, there are no prerequisites however any prior experience will be beneficial to the course and can be recognised through RPL.

6. CPP50619 Diploma of Security Risk Management

For those who are planning on building a career in security risk management, we would recommend completing CPP50619 Diploma of Security Risk Management. This is the highest level of study that will prepare you for all aspects of security risk management from being a security risk specialist, security consultant, security policy analyst or a security strategist.

It’s important to note that you will need to complete one of the following:

• CPP40707 Certificate IV in Security and Risk Management
• CPP40719 Certificate IV in Security Management
• CPP41519 Certificate IV in Security Risk Analysis

Once you’ve completed the Diploma, the next step in your career will be accumulating experience in the field. Putting to practice what you have learnt in your studies is essential to completing your training.

Opportunities at Paragon Corporate Training

Whether you are just starting out in the security industry or looking to advance your career, Paragon Corporate Training can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.

Once you’ve acquired certification, gain experience by working in your chosen area. Ask questions from your superiors, watch how your co-workers perform and always seek to learn more. The security industry is constantly changing, it’s your responsibility to educate, improve and advance your skills. If you need any certifications, Paragon Corporate Training is here to provide the education you need to succeed.

In conclusion, the security industry offers numerous opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing a career in security operations. By taking advantage of training and certification programs like those offered by Paragon Corporate Training, you can develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this exciting and rewarding field.