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Building Security Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Security Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$115K - $158K/yr

Range is building AI-powered wealth management that actually works. One platform - investments ... We're looking for a senior security engineer who breaks things so our members never have to worry.

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Building Security information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$26

$40

How much do building security jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for building security in Virginia is $26.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What type of security jobs pay the most?

In building security, roles such as security managers, security directors, and specialized security consultants tend to have the highest salaries due to increased responsibilities and experience requirements. Positions requiring advanced certifications, such as Certified Protection Professional (CPP) or Physical Security Professional (PSP), often command higher pay. Management and executive-level security positions generally offer the highest compensation in the field.

What type of security gets paid the most?

In the security field, roles such as security managers, security directors, and specialized security consultants tend to have the highest salaries. Building security professionals with advanced certifications, experience, and leadership responsibilities typically earn more than entry-level security guards or patrol officers.

What are building security personnel responsible for?

Building security personnel are responsible for ensuring the safety and protection of people, property, and assets within a building. Their duties typically include monitoring entrances and exits, conducting patrols, responding to alarms and emergencies, and enforcing access control policies. They may also check identification, assist visitors, and work closely with law enforcement or emergency responders when necessary. Building security plays a crucial role in preventing unauthorized access, theft, vandalism, and other security threats.

What are some common challenges faced by building security personnel, and how can they be addressed?

Building security personnel often face challenges such as managing access control during busy periods, responding to emergencies, and balancing customer service with enforcing security protocols. These challenges can be addressed by staying vigilant, participating in regular training, and maintaining clear communication with colleagues and building management. Strong teamwork and familiarity with security technology also play vital roles in overcoming daily obstacles and ensuring a safe environment for everyone.

What is the highest-paying security guard job?

The highest-paying security guard jobs typically involve specialized roles such as executive protection, corporate security management, or security consulting, often requiring advanced training, certifications, and experience. These positions may offer higher salaries due to increased responsibility, skills, and the need for discretion and risk management.

What is the difference between Building Security vs Security Guard?

AspectBuilding SecuritySecurity Guard
CredentialsSecurity certifications, sometimes specialized in building systemsSecurity guard license, basic security training
Work EnvironmentCommercial, residential, or industrial buildingsVarious settings including events, retail, and facilities
Employer & IndustryProperty management, security firms, corporationsSecurity companies, private clients, government
Common Search/ComparisonBuilding SecuritySecurity Guard

Building Security and Security Guard roles often overlap, but Building Security typically involves managing access, monitoring building systems, and ensuring overall safety within a specific property. Security Guards focus more on patrolling, surveillance, and immediate security threats. Both roles require security training and certifications, but Building Security may demand additional knowledge of building systems and protocols.

How much do construction site security guards make?

Construction site security guards typically earn an average hourly wage of $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the site. Salaries can range from around $25,000 to $45,000 annually for full-time positions, with some roles offering overtime or specialized training bonuses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Building Security Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Building Security Officer, you need a solid understanding of security protocols, emergency procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control technology, and sometimes security certification (such as a security guard license) is essential. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you respond quickly and professionally to incidents. These competencies are crucial for maintaining a safe environment, preventing unauthorized access, and ensuring the security of people and property.
What are popular job titles related to Building Security jobs in Virginia? For Building Security jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Building Security jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Building Security job openings:
Infographic showing various Building Security job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,878 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
2026-2027 School Security Substitute

2026-2027 School Security Substitute

Petersburg City Public Schools

Petersburg, VA • On-site

$37K - $46K/yr

Temporary

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Security/Security - Seasonal
Date Posted:
4/17/2026
Location:
All Schools
Job Title: School Security Substitute
Salary Range:
Supervisor: Principal
Job Classification: Non-Exempt
Job Summary
Have a strong desire to work with school-aged youth, professional educators, law enforcement personnel, school staff, and parents
Relate effectively to school administrators, faculty, staff, students, law enforcement personnel, and citizens in the community
Adhere to the SSO (School Security Officer) dress code prescribed by the employing school district or building principal
Must model appropriate behavior for students to emulate
Must understand the terms and conditions of employment as a SSO
Essential Job Functions
Patrols school building and grounds to prevent loitering and to ensure compliance with school regulations
Patrols parking areas and entrances to school
Assures that visitors report to the school office or leave the building and or grounds
Reports unusual incidents and observations to the proper school official in accordance with procedures established by the principal
Checks hallways, rest rooms, cafeteria, and remote areas of the building for safety and security problems or potential problems
Refers students having problems to appropriate assistant principal, counselor, classroom teacher, or other professional staff members
Communicates with students regarding improper behavior and attempts to obtain voluntary compliance with school standards
Reports to the principal any building conditions or practices which interfere with the maintenance of good building security and safety
Maintains proper records of contacts made and security activities, as required by the principal
Ensures school security equipment is kept in good working order
Develops healthy communication and relationships with community, students, parents, and staff
Participates in crisis response planning and school safety audits as requested
Job Specifications: (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities Required)
Maintains state certification as established by the DCJS
Maintain certification in Division-approved restraint training
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, families, school leaders, and staff
Effective and professional verbal and written communication
Strong problem-solving abilities
Minimum Qualifications
Education: High School Diploma
Experience: 21 years of age or older
Working Conditions and Physical Demands
Must have the use of sensory skills in order to effectively communicate and interact with other employees and the public using the telephone and personal contact as normally defined by the ability to see, read, talk, hear, handle or feel objects and controls. Frequent sitting, walking, standing, bending, grasping, and driving. Occasional running, balancing, crouching, kneeling, fingering, repetitive motion, and reaching. Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, and hazards such as moving vehicles, moving mechanical parts, etc. and/or loud noises. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally and over 50 pounds rarely. Requires timely and regular adherence to established work schedules.