Security Guard Jobs in Canada: $22/hr, Requirements & How to Apply

 

Introduction:

When most people think of career options in Canada, security guarding rarely tops the list. It doesn’t get the glamour of tech or the prestige of finance. But here’s what a lot of people are sleeping on: security guard jobs in Canada are one of the most accessible, stable, and surprisingly well-paying career paths available right now, especially for newcomers, career changers, and anyone who wants to get into a solid profession without a four-year university degree.

Think about it. Every hospital needs security. Every shopping mall, every corporate office tower, every construction site, every government building, and every major event venue in this country employs security guards. Canada’s private security industry now employs over 160,000 licensed guards nationwide, and that number is only growing.

Most people who want to break into this field have absolutely no idea where to start. How much does a security guard actually earn in Ontario versus British Columbia? What licenses do you need, and how do you get them? Which companies are hiring right now, and what does the application process look like? If you’ve been asking these questions and getting only vague answers, you’re in exactly the right place.

This guide covers everything, the real numbers, the step-by-step process, the province-by-province breakdown, and insider tips to help you stand out. Whether you’re a newcomer to Canada, a recent graduate, or someone tired of their current job and ready for a change, this article is your complete roadmap.

What Does a Security Guard Actually Do in Canada?

Before we talk money and applications, it’s worth understanding what the job actually involves because it’s far more varied and demanding than most people assume.

Security guards in Canada are responsible for protecting people, property, and assets from theft, vandalism, unauthorized access, and emergencies. But the day-to-day role depends heavily on where you’re stationed. Here’s a breakdown of what the job typically involves:

• Patrolling premises – both on foot and by vehicle, checking for signs of unauthorized entry, suspicious activity, fire hazards, or damage
• Monitoring surveillance systems – watching CCTV feeds, access control panels, and alarm systems
• Controlling access – verifying credentials, issuing visitor passes, managing entry and exit points at buildings or events
• Responding to incidents – handling emergencies, conflict situations, medical events, and coordinating with law enforcement or emergency services
• Writing incident reports – documenting all notable events, unusual activity, or breaches on shift logs
• Enforcing rules and regulations – such as the Trespass to Property Act and relevant municipal bylaws
• Providing customer service – yes, really. In many settings, guards are the first face people see and must be professional and approachable at all times

The role can be physically demanding, especially in patrol-heavy or outdoor environments. Night shifts, weekends, and holidays are common in this profession. That said, the diversity of roles means you can find a setting that suits your personality and lifestyle from the quiet calm of a corporate lobby to the high-energy pace of a concert venue.

Types of Security Guard Jobs in Canada

One of the biggest misconceptions about this career is that all security guard jobs are the same. Far from it. Canada’s security industry spans a wide range of specializations, and knowing which type of role you’re targeting will help you focus your training and job search. Here are the main categories:

1. Uniformed / Static Security Guard

This is the most common entry-level role. You’re stationed at a fixed post, a building, parking lot, or retail space and your job is to maintain a visible security presence. These roles are widely available, and many require only a basic security license.

2. Mobile Patrol Guard

Instead of staying in one place, mobile patrol guards travel between multiple client sites in a vehicle, conducting checks and responding to alarms. This role typically comes with a higher pay rate and often requires a valid driver’s license.

3. Event Security Guard

Working concerts, sports events, conventions, and festivals this role involves crowd management, ticket checking, and ensuring public safety. It can be part-time or casual, making it a popular choice for students or people looking for supplemental income.

4. Loss Prevention Officer

Employed primarily in retail environments, loss prevention officers identify and address shoplifting, employee theft, and inventory shrinkage. This is a more investigative role and often serves as a stepping stone into private investigation.

5. Armed Security Guard

A more specialized and higher-paying role that requires additional training and licensing, including a Possession and Acquisition License (PAL) for firearms. Armed guards protect high-value assets, financial institutions, and sensitive locations.

6. Corporate/Concierge Security

Common in office towers and luxury condominiums, concierge security blends customer service with security duties. These roles often pay more and require excellent communication skills and a professional appearance.

7. Construction Site Security

One of the more physically demanding environments. Guards protect equipment and materials from theft and vandalism, often working long overnight shifts. This sector has seen growing demand as Canadian infrastructure and housing projects boom.

8. Healthcare/Hospital Security

Security at hospitals and medical facilities requires a calm and empathetic approach, de-escalation skills, and the ability to handle mentally distressed or aggressive individuals. Many provinces offer specialized training for this setting.

9. Government / Federal Security

Positions with federal institutions, courts, or government buildings often require higher security clearances (Reliability or Secret Level). These tend to offer better pay and benefits notably, a security guard role with the City of Toronto advertised salaries between $59,258 and $74,836 per year.

Security Guard Salary in Canada

Now for the section everyone wants to know about how much does a security guard actually make in Canada?

The short answer is: it depends significantly on the province, the type of role, experience, and whether you’re working for a private firm or a government body. Let’s break it all down.

National Average Salary

According to multiple compensation data sources compiled in 2025:

• Average hourly rate: approximately $19.51 to $24/hour
• Average annual salary: approximately $49,573/year (mid-career)
• Salary range (national): between $34,424 and $65,416 per year

The wide range reflects the diversity of roles, a part-time static guard at a parking lot earns very differently from an armed federal security officer with a decade of experience.

Salary by Province (2025 Data)

Sources: Indeed Canada, CareerBeacon, ERI Economic Research Institute, ZipRecruiter (2025 data)

Salary by Experience Level

What Affects Your Pay?

Several key factors determine where on the salary spectrum you’ll land:

• Type of role: Armed guards and government-contracted guards earn considerably more than static unarmed guards
• Province: Alberta and British Columbia tend to pay higher than the Maritime provinces
• Employer type: Government and municipal employers typically pay more than private security firms
• Certifications: Holding a First Aid instructor certification, CCTV operator certification, or advanced use-of-force training directly boosts earning potential
• Shift differential: Night shifts, weekends, and holidays typically attract a 5–20% pay premium
• Unionization: Unionized security positions generally offer better wages, benefits, and job security

Additional Benefits

Beyond base pay, many Canadian security employers offer:

• Dental, vision, and extended health benefits (especially at larger firms like GardaWorld and Securitas)
• License reimbursement -some companies cover the cost of your annual security license renewal
• Tuition assistance for additional training
• RRSP/pension contributions at government-contracted positions
• Uniform and equipment allowances

Licensing Requirements: What You Legally Need to Work as a Security Guard in Canada

Here is one of the most critical things you need to understand: working as a security guard in Canada without a valid provincial license is illegal. This isn’t a technicality you can overlook, it can result in significant fines for both you and the employer who hired you.

Licensing is regulated at the provincial level, meaning each province has its own licensing authority, training requirements, and application process. However, there are core commonalities across all provinces.

General Requirements Across All Provinces

No matter which province you’re applying in, you’ll generally need to:

• Be at least 18 years old (19 in British Columbia)
• Be legally eligible to work in Canada – Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and those with valid work permits qualify
• Have a clean criminal record – a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) or equivalent is mandatory. Conviction of certain offences can disqualify you, though this depends on the nature and recency of the offence
• Complete mandatory security guard training – from a government-approved provider
• Pass a provincial licensing examination
• Pay applicable licensing fees

Province-by-Province Licensing Overview

Ontario

Ontario operates one of the most comprehensive licensing systems in Canada, managed by the Ministry of the Solicitor General.

Steps to get licensed in Ontario:

1. Meet eligibility requirements (age, work eligibility, clean record)
2. Complete a 40-hour Basic Security Training (BST) course from a Ministry-approved provider
3. Complete 7.5 hours of Emergency First Aid with CPR (Level C) – required as part of the training
4. Receive your Training Completion Number (TCN)
5. Book and write the 60-question multiple-choice licensing exam (minimum passing score: 62%)
6. Apply for your licence through ServiceOntario
7. Pay the $80 licensing fee

Processing for online applications takes up to 15 calendar days. You must carry your licence at all times while on duty and show it to any member of the public who requests it.

British Columbia

In B.C., the licensing is managed by the Security Programs Division. There are several paths to a full security guard licence:

• Completion of a Basic Security Training (BST) course through an approved school or the Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC)
• Alternatively, advanced security training or use-of-force training within the past 12 months may be acceptable

B.C. also offers a provisional licence that allows you to begin working under supervision while completing your full training- a big advantage for newcomers to the field.

Alberta

Alberta requires completion of an Accredited Basic Security Training Course and passing a final exam with a score of 80% or higher. Applications are submitted through the Alberta Government website. Having a valid security licence from another Canadian province may exempt you from training requirements.

Other Provinces

Most other provinces follow a broadly similar process: complete approved training, pass an exam, submit a background check, and pay a licensing fee. Quebec has its own French-language requirements, and the training must be completed through a Quebec-recognized provider.

How Much Does a Security Guard License Cost?

This is a very modest investment compared to most professional certifications and many employers will reimburse these costs once you’re hired.

Step-by-Step: How to Become a Security Guard in Canada

Now that you understand the landscape, here’s a clear, actionable roadmap to go from zero to employed as a licensed security guard in Canada.

Step 1: Confirm You Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before spending any money on training, verify that you:

• Are of the minimum required age in your province
• Have legal authorization to work in Canada
• Do not have any disqualifying criminal convictions
• Are physically capable of performing the duties (no formal medical exam is required in most provinces, but guards must be reasonably fit)

Step 2: Obtain a Criminal Record Check

Get a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) or equivalent from your local police services or authorized third-party provider. This takes time, so order it early in the process. In Ontario, for example, plan for this to potentially be the slowest step.

Step 3: Enroll in an Approved Basic Security Training (BST) Course

Find a Ministry-approved or government-recognized training provider in your province. You can search for approved providers on your provincial government’s website. Many are available online for the theory component, with in-person options for practical skills.

The training covers:

• Canadian Criminal Code basics – understanding legal authority, powers of arrest, use of force
• Charter of Rights and Freedoms – respecting civil liberties while on duty
• Emergency First Response – incident reporting, basic emergency protocols
• Arrest procedures – lawful detention, documentation
• Surveillance techniques – effective monitoring and patrol methods
• Conflict management and de-escalation
• Report writing and documentation
• Fire safety and emergency procedures
• CCTV and access control systems
• Professionalism and ethics in security

Completing First Aid and CPR Level C is also required in most provinces and is often bundled with BST programs.

Step 4: Receive Your Training Completion Number (TCN)

Upon successful completion of your training, your provider will issue you a Training Completion Number (TCN). This is the number you need to book your provincial licensing examination.

Step 5: Write the Provincial Licensing Exam

The exam is typically administered:

• In-person at authorized testing centres across the province
• Online in some provinces, from your own computer

In Ontario, the exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 1 hour and 15 minutes. You need a minimum score of 62% to pass. In Alberta, the required pass mark is 80%.

If you fail, you can usually re-sit the exam after a waiting period, though you’ll need to pay the exam fee again.

Step 6: Apply for Your Security Guard Licence

Once you pass the exam, you’ll receive a Testing Completion Number. Use this to formally apply for your licence through your provincial portal (e.g., ServiceOntario online).

You’ll need to submit:

• Completed application form
• Government-issued photo ID (two pieces, one proving work eligibility in Canada)
• Your TCN and Testing Completion Number
• Payment of the licensing fee
• CRJMC results (in provinces that require submission)

In Ontario, a correctly completed online application is typically approved within 15 calendar days.

Step 7: Start Applying for Jobs

Once you have your licence, you’re ready to apply. Don’t wait until you have years of experience, most security companies actively hire entry-level licensed guards and provide site-specific on-the-job training.

Where to Find Security Guard Jobs in Canada: Top Platforms & Companies

Now that you’re licensed (or working toward it), here’s where to look for work.

Major Job Platforms

• Job Bank (jobbank.gc.ca) – Canada’s official federal job board, always a great source for legitimate listings
• Indeed Canada (ca.indeed.com) – the largest aggregator, with thousands of security guard postings at any given time
• LinkedIn (ca.linkedin.com) – useful for both applying and networking, especially for corporate security roles
• Glassdoor (glassdoor.com) – offers job listings plus salary transparency and company reviews
• Workopolis (workopolis.com) – Canadian job board with thousands of security listings
• Kijiji and local classifieds – smaller companies and independent contractors often post here

Top Security Companies Hiring in Canada

Here are some of the major employers in the Canadian security industry:

Many of these companies also offer training-to-hire pipelines, where they’ll sponsor your BST training costs in exchange for a commitment to work with them for a set period. This is an excellent option if you’re just getting started.

How to Write a Strong Security Guard Resume and Cover Letter

Having your licence is the baseline. To actually get called in for interviews, you need to present yourself well on paper.

Resume Tips for Security Guard Jobs

• Lead with your licence number and province – every hiring manager needs to see this first
• Include certifications prominently – First Aid/CPR Level C, CCTV operation, use-of-force training, etc.
• Use action verbs – patrolled, monitored, responded, enforced, documented, coordinated
• Quantify where possible – “monitored a 50,000 sq ft. facility across 3 floors” is better than “monitored a building”
• Highlight transferable skills – military, police, customer service, or hospitality backgrounds all translate well
• Keep it clean and readable – a one-to-two page resume is ideal. No photographs required in Canada (unlike some other countries)

Key Skills to Highlight

• Observation and attention to detail
• Conflict de-escalation and communication
• Report writing
• CCTV and access control systems
• First Aid / CPR Level C
• Physical fitness
• Bilingual abilities (particularly French/English – a strong advantage across Canada)

Cover Letter Approach

Your cover letter doesn’t need to be long. Three to four short paragraphs are ideal:

1. Open with your licence status and why you’re interested in the specific company or role
2. Highlight two or three concrete experiences or skills that make you a good fit
3. Mention your availability (shift flexibility is a major advantage in this industry)
4. Close with a clear call to action – request an interview

Tips to Increase Your Earning Potential as a Security Guard

If you’re thinking long-term about this career, here’s how to accelerate your income growth:

• Get your First Aid instructor certification – allows you to train others, which can earn extra income on the side
• Complete Use-of-Force (UoF) training – opens the door to higher-risk, higher-paying roles
• Pursue a firearms license (PAL) – necessary for armed security positions, which can pay 30–50% more than unarmed roles
• Apply for government security clearances – Reliability Status and Secret Level clearances are required for federal contracts and come with significant pay premiums
• Take on supervisor or site lead roles – leadership positions typically pay $3–$7/hour more than frontline guard roles
• Consider mobile patrol – higher pay than static posts due to the driving requirement and multi-site responsibility
• Specialize in healthcare or corporate security – both sectors tend to pay above the industry average
• Get CCTV operator certified – a recognized certification in video surveillance operations can strengthen applications for monitoring-focused roles

What to Expect During the Hiring Process

Most security companies follow a fairly predictable hiring process. Here’s what to expect so you’re not caught off guard (pun intended):

Stage 1: Online Application

Submit your resume and cover letter through the company’s portal or job board. Make sure your licence number is visible and all certifications are listed.

Stage 2: Initial Screening Call

A recruiter will typically call to confirm your licence status, availability, and general fit. Be ready to discuss your shift preferences- nights, weekends, and holidays significantly improve your chances.

Stage 3: In-Person or Video Interview

Expect questions like:

• “Tell me about a time you handled a conflict situation”
• “What would you do if you witnessed someone stealing?”
• “How do you handle working alone on a night shift?”
• “Describe a situation where you had to stay calm under pressure”

These are competency-based questions- answer them with the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

Stage 4: Background Check and Reference Verification

Most companies will conduct their own background checks regardless of your CRJMC. They may also verify references, so have two or three professional references ready.

Stage 5: Site-Specific Training / Onboarding

Once hired, you’ll typically receive 1–3 days of site-specific orientation covering the client’s procedures, emergency protocols, access control systems, and reporting requirements. This is paid training in most companies.

Pros and Cons of Security Guard Jobs in Canada

Let’s be balanced about this. Like any career, security guarding has genuine advantages and real drawbacks. Here’s an honest breakdown:

The Pros

• Low barrier to entry – compared to most professional fields, getting licensed and hired is relatively quick and affordable
• Steady demand – the need for security services doesn’t disappear during economic downturns
• Career mobility – strong pathway into law enforcement, corrections, private investigation, or corporate security management
• Diverse work environments – from hospitals to concerts to construction sites; no two days are exactly alike
• Supplemental income potential – many positions offer part-time or casual hours for those who want a side income
• Immigrant-friendly – the licensing process is accessible to newcomers with valid work authorization

The Cons

• Shift work – nights, weekends, and holidays are often unavoidable, especially early in your career
• Physical and mental demands – long hours on your feet, dealing with hostile individuals, and working in all weather conditions can be taxing
• Entry-level wages – starting pay in some provinces barely clears the living wage, particularly in high-cost cities like Toronto and Vancouver
• Variable hours – part-time and casual positions don’t always offer stable income
• Emotional toll – particularly in healthcare or event settings where confrontations, mental health crises, or medical emergencies are common
• Limited recognition – the profession is often undervalued despite its essential role in public safety

Security Guard Job Outlook: Is This Career Worth Pursuing in 2026?

Here’s the honest career forecast.

Canada’s Job Bank confirms that labour demand and supply for security guards are expected to remain broadly balanced through 2024–2033, meaning steady work is available but the field isn’t exploding in the way that, say, healthcare or tech is. However, several factors point to sustained and growing demand:

• Population growth and urbanization – Canada’s growing population means more buildings, events, and infrastructure requiring security
• Rise of large-scale events – concerts, sporting events, and festivals continue to expand, driving event security demand
• Construction boom – Canada’s ongoing housing and infrastructure build-out generates consistent demand for construction site security
• Healthcare security – hospitals and clinics need more security personnel as patient populations grow and de-escalation skills become more critical
• Retail security – loss prevention roles remain steady as retailers combat shrinkage in challenging economic conditions
• Growing demand for advanced skills – British Columbia’s WorkBC data confirms that guards with advanced security solutions training and threat/risk assessment skills will have better job prospects and higher pay

The bottom line? This is not a career that’s going away. It may not make you a millionaire, but with the right specializations, clearances, and experience, a security guard career in Canada can absolutely support a comfortable, stable lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do I need a security guard license to work in Canada?

Yes, absolutely. Every Canadian province requires a valid security guard licence. Working without one is illegal and can result in fines for both you and your employer. The licensing process typically takes 4–8 weeks from start to finish.

Q2: How much do security guards make in Canada per hour?

The national average is approximately $19.51 to $24/hour, depending on province, experience, and role type. Entry-level guards typically earn $15–$18/hour, while armed or government-contracted guards can earn $28–$38/hour.

Q3: Can newcomers and immigrants become security guards in Canada?

Yes. As long as you are legally authorized to work in Canada (through a work permit, PR card, or citizenship), you can apply for a security guard licence. You must be able to read and write in English (or French in Quebec) to pass the licensing exam.

Q4: How long does it take to get a security guard licence in Ontario?

From start to finish:

• BST training: 1–2 weeks (online or in-person)
• First Aid & CPR: 1–2 days
• Criminal record check: 1–4 weeks
• Exam booking and writing: 1–2 weeks
• Application processing: up to 15 calendar days

In total, expect 4–8 weeks from enrollment to receiving your licence.

Q5: Is there a difference between a security guard and a security officer?

In practice, the titles are often used interchangeably in Canada. “Security officer” sometimes implies a higher level of responsibility or a specific industry context (e.g., hospital security officer), but both roles require the same provincial licence.

Q6: Can I transfer my security licence from one province to another?

Sometimes. Several provinces have reciprocal arrangements. For example, Ontario may accept out-of-province licences without requiring full retraining, though you’ll still need to apply for an Ontario-specific licence. Always contact the licensing authority in your new province to confirm their specific requirements.

Q7: What’s the highest-paying security guard job in Canada?

Government and federal security roles tend to pay the most. A City of Toronto security guard position, for example, can pay between $59,258 and $74,836 per year. Armed security and roles requiring federal clearances (Secret Level) are also among the highest-compensating positions in the industry.

Q8: Do security guards in Canada get benefits?

Many do. Full-time positions at larger firms like GardaWorld, Securitas, and Allied Universal typically include health and dental benefits, license reimbursement, and sometimes RRSP matching. Government positions usually offer the most comprehensive benefit packages.

Q9: What’s the best province for security guard jobs?

Ontario has the largest volume of openings due to its population size, but Alberta and British Columbia offer some of the highest hourly wages. If you prioritize pay over volume, Alberta or BC may be your best bet.

Q10: Can I work as a security guard part-time?

Absolutely. Many security positions offer flexible part-time and casual arrangements. Event security in particular is ideal for those seeking supplemental income, as shifts are tied to specific events and don’t require full-time commitment.

Conclusion:

If you’ve made it this far, you now have one of the most complete pictures available of what it takes to land a security guard job in Canada, the real salaries, the exact steps to get licensed, where to apply, and what to expect.

The security profession in Canada is not glamorous, but it is honest, stable, and far more lucrative than most people assume – especially once you layer in experience, certifications, and the right employer. The barrier to entry is low. The demand is consistent. And for anyone willing to put in the work, the career growth opportunities into supervision, federal security, private investigation, or even law enforcement are genuinely there.

The truth is, most people who “can’t find a stable job” in Canada simply haven’t looked hard enough at sectors like this one. You don’t need a degree. You don’t need years of experience. You need a licence, a clean record, a professional attitude, and the willingness to work hard.

The question isn’t whether the opportunity exists. It does. The only question is whether you’re going to take it.

This article was researched and written using data from Canada’s Job Bank, Indeed, CareerBeacon, ERI Economic Research Institute, the Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General, BC’s Security Programs Division, and Alberta Government sources. All salary data reflects the most recently published 2025 figures.