Allied Universal is a leading security and facility services company that provides a wide range of services to businesses and organizations. They offer security services, such as security guards, patrol services, and access control.
A security guard at Allied Universal is responsible for protecting people and property. They patrol the premises, monitor surveillance equipment, and respond to alarms and other emergency situations. Security guards also enforce rules and regulations, investigate suspicious activity, and provide customer service. They must be alert and attentive at all times and be able to handle difficult situations with professionalism and tact.
Allied Universal Security Guard Job Duties
An Allied Universal Security Guard typically has a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:
- Monitor and authorize entrance and departure of employees, visitors, and other persons to guard against theft and maintain security of premises
- Write reports of daily activities and irregularities such as equipment or property damage, theft, presence of unauthorized persons, or unusual occurrences
- Circulate among visitors, patrons, and employees to preserve order and protect property
- Answer alarms and investigate disturbances
- Monitor and adjust controls that regulate building systems, such as air conditioning, heating, and lighting
- Patrol industrial and commercial premises to prevent and detect signs of intrusion and ensure security of doors, windows, and gates
- Warn violators of rule infractions, such as loitering, smoking, or carrying forbidden articles
- Investigate and prepare reports on accidents, incidents, suspicious activities, safety hazards, and emergency situations requiring police intervention
- Provide assistance to customers, employees, and visitors in a courteous and professional manner
- Respond to emergencies quickly and efficiently
- Maintain knowledge of all site-specific policies/procedures related to security operations
- Remain alert at all times; observe all activities and monitor surveillance cameras when necessary
Allied Universal Security Guard Salary
The salary for a Security Guard at Allied Universal is determined by a variety of factors, such as the location of the job, the experience and qualifications of the individual, the size of the company, and the type of security services being provided. Additionally, the company may offer bonuses or other incentives to employees based on performance or other criteria.
- Median Annual Salary: $31,113 ($14.96/hour)
- Top 10% Annual Salary: $37,450 ($18/hour)
Allied Universal Security Guard Job Requirements
To be hired as a security guard at Allied Universal, applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Previous experience in security or law enforcement is preferred, but not required. Applicants must also be able to pass a background check and drug test. Additionally, applicants must be able to obtain a valid guard card or other required licenses. Security guards must also be able to stand for long periods of time and be able to lift up to 50 pounds. Allied Universal also requires that applicants have excellent communication and customer service skills.
Allied Universal Security Guard Skills
Allied Universal Security Guard employees need the following skills in order to be successful:
Safety Awareness: Security guards need to be aware of their surroundings and the potential dangers they may face while on duty. Safety awareness includes knowing how to respond to emergency situations, how to handle dangerous situations and how to protect themselves and others. Safety awareness is an important skill for security guards to have as it can help them prevent accidents and keep themselves and others safe.
Report Writing: Security guards often use written reports to document their observations and actions. They may also use written reports to communicate with other security personnel or law enforcement. Security guards may also use written reports to document the results of investigations.
Attention to Detail: Security guards need to be able to notice small changes in their environment. For example, if a door is left open or a window is broken, this can be a security risk. Attention to detail can help you notice these changes and take action to fix them. Attention to detail can also help you notice suspicious activity and take action to prevent a crime.
Communication Skills: Security guards need to be able to communicate effectively with others. This includes communicating with other security guards, supervisors and members of the public. You can practice your communication skills by taking classes in public speaking or by practicing with a friend.
Incident Response: Security guards are responsible for handling emergency situations and ensuring the safety of their clients and coworkers. Allied Universal requires all of its security guards to complete a training program that includes emergency response procedures. Security guards should be familiar with how to handle a variety of emergency situations, including fires, medical emergencies and active shooter situations.
Allied Universal Security Guard Work Environment
Security guards typically work in shifts, which may include nights, weekends, and holidays. They may be required to work overtime, especially during emergencies or special events. Security guards may be required to stand for long periods of time, patrol an area, or monitor security cameras. They may also be required to travel to different locations, depending on the needs of the employer. The work environment can be stressful, as security guards must remain alert and vigilant at all times. They must also be able to respond quickly and appropriately to any security threats or emergencies.
Allied Universal Security Guard Trends
Here are three trends influencing how Allied Universal Security Guard employees work.
Education and Training Requirements
As the security industry continues to evolve, so do the education and training requirements for Allied Universal Security Guards. With new technologies being developed and implemented in the field, it is important that guards are up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices.
To ensure that all guards have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties effectively, many employers now require a minimum level of education or certification before hiring. This includes courses such as basic first aid, defensive tactics, emergency response, and active shooter protocols. Additionally, some employers may also require additional certifications such as CPR/AED, OSHA 10, and other specialized trainings.
By understanding these emerging trends, Allied Universal Security Guards can stay ahead of the curve and be better prepared to handle any situation they may encounter.
Private Security Firms
Private security firms are becoming increasingly popular as a way to supplement traditional law enforcement. Allied Universal Security Guards provide an important service in protecting people and property, while also providing peace of mind for customers.
The rise of private security firms is due to the increasing demand for more specialized services that can be tailored to specific needs. Private security guards have access to advanced technology such as facial recognition software, GPS tracking systems, and surveillance cameras. This allows them to monitor their surroundings and respond quickly to any potential threats. Additionally, they are able to provide additional training and support to ensure that all personnel are up-to-date on the latest safety protocols.
New Technology
As the security industry continues to evolve, new technology is emerging that can help Allied Universal Security Guards better protect their clients. This includes facial recognition software, which can be used to identify potential threats and alert guards of suspicious activity. Additionally, AI-powered cameras are being deployed in many locations to monitor for any unusual behavior or activities.
The use of these technologies allows Allied Universal Security Guards to stay ahead of potential threats and respond quickly if an incident occurs. By understanding how this technology works and staying up to date on the latest trends, security guards can ensure they are providing the best possible protection for their clients.
Advancement Prospects
Security guards who work for Allied Universal have the opportunity to advance their careers by taking on additional responsibilities. For example, they may become supervisors or shift leaders, or they may become certified in specialized areas such as access control or fire safety. They may also be able to move up to higher-level positions such as security manager or security director. In addition, Allied Universal offers a variety of training and development programs to help security guards advance their careers.
Interview Questions
Here are five common Allied Universal Security Guard interview questions and answers.
1. Tell me about a time where you saw something suspicious at work, what did you do?
This question can help the interviewer understand how you react to potentially dangerous situations. It can also show them your ability to make quick decisions and act on them. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a situation where you reacted quickly and helped keep others safe.
Example: “When I was working as a security guard at an event, I noticed that one of my coworkers seemed distracted while watching over a crowd. I went over to check in with him, and he told me that he thought someone had slipped something into their drink. He wasn’t sure what to do about it, so we decided to call for backup. We then watched her more closely until other guards arrived. They were able to escort her to a private area where she could wait for her ride home.”
2. Do you have any experience using alarms and surveillance systems?
This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience using similar technology in your current role. If you do, share a specific example of how you used it to improve security at your previous job. If you don’t have any experience with alarms and surveillance systems, explain that you are willing to learn about them and develop this skill set.
Example: “In my last position as a security guard for a large retail store, I was responsible for monitoring multiple cameras throughout the building. Whenever I noticed something suspicious on one camera, I would switch to another to see what else was going on. This allowed me to keep an eye on several areas of the store at once and ensure the safety of customers and employees.”
3. Are you comfortable answering phones?
This question is an opportunity to show your communication skills. If you have experience answering phones, describe how you would answer a call and what kind of information you would gather from the caller.
Example: “I’ve answered phones for my current employer for two years now, so I’m very comfortable with it. When someone calls in, I greet them by name and ask if they need help or are calling about something specific. Then, I listen carefully to their response and take notes on any important details. After that, I connect them to the appropriate person or department.”
4. How familiar are you with Microsoft Office Programs (Word, Excel, Powerpoint)?
The interviewer may ask this question to assess your computer skills and determine if you have the ability to complete basic tasks on a computer. Use your answer to highlight any experience you have with these programs, including how often you use them and what types of projects you completed using them.
Example: “I am very familiar with Microsoft Office Programs as I used them in my previous role as a security guard at XYZ Company. In that position, I was responsible for completing daily reports using Word, creating spreadsheets using Excel and presenting information through Powerpoint. While I’m comfortable working with all three programs, I find myself using Excel most frequently.”
5. Are you able to operate alarm system panels and respond appropriately to emergencies?
This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the security industry and how you can use it to benefit the company. If you have experience operating alarm systems, describe a time when you used that skill to help others or improve your workplace.
Example: “I’ve worked as a security guard for several years now, so I’m familiar with many different types of alarm system panels. In my previous position, I was responsible for monitoring the building’s alarm system 24/7. When there were issues with the system, I would respond immediately to ensure the safety of everyone in the facility. I also had training on how to operate the fire alarms and emergency phones throughout the building.”
