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Entry Level Security Guard Jobs in Poughkeepsie, NY

Duties Description Air Base Security Guards (ABSGs) provide security and related services to ... Separate entry level and annual maintenance programs will be applied in accordance with Agency and ...

Duties Description Air Base Security Guards (ABSGs) provide security and related services to ... Separate entry level and annual maintenance programs will be applied in accordance with Agency and ...

Entry Level Security Guard information

See Poughkeepsie, NY salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do entry level security guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level security guard in Poughkeepsie, NY is $18.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level security guard?

Entry level security guards are professionals who are responsible for maintaining the safety and security of people, property, and premises. They typically monitor surveillance equipment, patrol assigned areas, check for security breaches, and respond to emergencies. Entry level positions usually require minimal prior experience and may include on-the-job training. Security guards play a crucial role in preventing theft, vandalism, and other criminal activities. This role often requires good communication skills, alertness, and the ability to handle stressful situations.

What do entry level security guards do?

As an entry-level security guard, your primary responsibilities are to patrol your assigned area and provide surveillance to detect suspicious activity. You may be asked to investigate disturbances, search visitors belongings, operate surveillance equipment, react appropriately to emergency situations, ensure the safety of a person or building, and complete incident reports and other paperwork. At the entry-level, you may work with another security guard as a team until you have gained more experience. An entry-level security guard may work for a company, an individual person, or a security organization. Weekends and night shifts are common in this industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level security guard?

To thrive as an Entry Level Security Guard, you need basic knowledge of security procedures, physical fitness, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a security guard license. Familiarity with surveillance cameras, alarm systems, and incident reporting software is typically required. Strong observational skills, reliability, and clear communication help distinguish top candidates in this role. These abilities are vital for ensuring the safety of people and property, as well as for effectively responding to emergencies or suspicious activity.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level security guards, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level security guards often encounter challenges such as adapting to irregular work hours, maintaining vigilance during long shifts, and effectively handling difficult or stressful situations. Building strong communication skills and staying alert are essential for managing these challenges. Many employers provide on-the-job training and mentorship to help new guards develop confidence and learn best practices for incident response, documentation, and customer service. Proactively seeking feedback and connecting with experienced colleagues can greatly aid in overcoming early obstacles and fostering professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Security Guard vs Security Officer?

AspectEntry Level Security GuardSecurity Officer
Required CertificationsBasic security license or trainingSame as Entry Level Security Guard, may require additional certifications
Work EnvironmentRetail stores, events, small businessesCommercial buildings, industrial sites, large facilities
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in retail, hospitality, small-scale securityUsed in corporate, industrial, and government sectors
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched together due to similar rolesRelated but typically involves more responsibilities

While both Entry Level Security Guard and Security Officer roles require basic security training and certifications, Security Officers often have more responsibilities and may work in larger or more complex environments. The main difference lies in the scope of duties and work settings, with Security Officers generally handling more advanced security tasks.

How do you get an entry level security guard job with no experience?

To get an entry-level security guard position with no experience, applicants should obtain a security guard license if required in their area, complete any necessary training, and highlight transferable skills such as observation and communication. Many employers are willing to hire candidates with a clean background and a willingness to learn on the job.

How to apply as an entry level security guard without experience?

Entry level security guard positions often do not require prior experience; applicants should focus on obtaining a valid security guard license or certification if required in their area, and highlight any relevant skills such as observation, communication, or customer service in their application. Gaining basic knowledge of security procedures and demonstrating reliability can improve chances of employment, even without previous security work experience.

What is the easiest entry level security guard job to get?

Entry level security guard positions that require minimal experience and certifications are generally the easiest to obtain. These jobs often involve basic surveillance, access control, and patrolling, and may require a security guard license or training course. Employers typically look for reliable individuals with good communication skills and a clean background.

What are the most commonly searched types of Security Guard jobs in Poughkeepsie, NY?

The most popular types of Security Guard jobs in Poughkeepsie, NY are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Security Guard jobs in Poughkeepsie, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Security Guard jobs in Poughkeepsie, NY are:

What cities near Poughkeepsie, NY are hiring for Entry Level Security Guard jobs?

Cities near Poughkeepsie, NY with the most Entry Level Security Guard job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Security Guard job openings in Poughkeepsie, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,115 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Air Base Security Guard

New York State

Newburgh, NY • On-site

$52K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 188 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 50 rated states


Job description

Duties Description Air Base Security Guards (ABSGs) provide security and related services to personnel and resources at various Air National Guard Bases (ANGBs) located within the State of New York. The position performs responsibilities in accordance with National Guard Bureau (NGB) standards, as outlined in the Master Cooperative Agreement (MCA) between NGB and DMNA, and specifically as required under the Security Cooperative Agreement (SCA), Appendix 23, National Guard Regulation (NGR) 5-1, Air Force Instructions (AFI) and all other applicable NGB regulations, as well as Agency and labor contract duties and responsibilities - current and as amended. Incumbents of this position are considered essential personnel.

Under the direct supervision of the Unit Chief of Security Forces (CSF), Security Forces Commander, or other appropriate designated supervisor, ABSGs perform all duties in accordance with Agency and NGB policy requirements noted above. Responsibilities include, but not limited to the following: Enforces standards of conduct and adherence to applicable laws, regulations and procedures within the Air National Guard (ANG) Area of Responsibility (AOR). Patrols flightline aircraft and other federal equipment on a priority basis to deter criminal activity by means of presence and witness.

Detect fires or other dangerous situations. Performs inspections of weapons and ammunition vaults, doors and other portals to ensure that all areas are properly locked and secured. Detect evidence of theft, burglary, vandalism, sabotage, or other hazardous conditions.

Questions suspicious persons to ascertain the legitimacy of presence in the area and detain unauthorized persons within jurisdictional limits until proper authorities arrive to take control. Controls entry and exit of military and civilian personnel, contractors and general public, to include all vehicles and other equipment. Performs traffic control duties, responds to incidents, accidents and other calls to assist personnel, secure the scene, investigate circumstances and complete required reports.

Performs pass and identification duties as required. Maintains radio contact with Base Defense Operations Center (BDOC) personnel at all times. Monitors alarm equipment and emergency response systems, and initiates appropriate response forces when applicable.

Provides other services necessary to secure location resources and personnel. Makes periodic checks of boiler rooms, security lighting, mess hall freezers and other areas as directed. Performs inspections and operator maintenance on all assigned vehicles and equipment in an effective and safe manner when required.

Dispatches security personnel to scenes of incidents and irregularities. Receives information on all complaints, taking appropriate action that may be necessary to notify appropriate law enforcement agencies, Fire Department and base personnel as required. Maintains appropriate records of all normal or emergency actions taken.

Periodic overtime may be required Periodic travel may be required to other facilities; to attend training; or other requirements related to duties as needed. Other job duties as assigned. JOB REQUIREMENTS: Ability to work independently with minimal supervision or with other individuals in a team/group setting.

Ability to push, pull, lift and carry heavy objects and equipment (50+ lbs). Ability to work outside in various temperatures and inclement weather for extended periods of time. Incumbents of this position are considered essential personnel.

WILL BE REQUIRED TO CARRY FIREARMS. At all times must meet requirements to carry firearms in accordance with National Guard Bureau and Air Base specific standards. Firearm requirements are in accordance with the authority of Title 10 United States Code (U.S.C.) 8013, Secretary of the Air Force, Air Force Instruction (AFI) 31-117, and EO 9397 (SSN), current and as amended

Must be eligible to obtain a permit to carry a handgun in New York State (NYS). May be required to obtain a NYS permit for base specific requirement. Appointees will be afforded a length of time equal to that of the required probationary period in which to obtain permit, but will not be deemed permanent until proof of permit is provided.

At the time of hire and annually thereafter, must meet mission specific weapons qualification requirements. At the time of hire and annually thereafter, must meet and maintain physical fitness and agility standards established in accordance with Agency and NGB policy requirements. Separate entry level and annual maintenance programs will be applied in accordance with Agency and NGB policy requirements.

At the time of hire and annually thereafter, must meet the medical screening requirements to include drug testing, as established in accordance with Agency and NGB policy requirements. At the time of hire and annually thereafter, must meet and maintain all mission specific proficiency training requirements to include, but not limited to, Use of Force, Rules of engagement and Search/Handcuffing; including annual evaluations. Must be eligible to be designated as a Peace Officer; training may be required.

(Note: this may be a Base specific requirement. Peace Officers are required to maintain residence in the State of New York) Ability to read and write in English. Demonstrate reliability and trustworthiness.

Good verbal and written communication skills. Minimum Qualifications Must be a member of the New York Air National Guard assigned to Security Police Flight at the time of appointment and possess at a minimum a current Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) 3P031. OR Must possess a current AFSC 3P051/3P071.

OR Must possess at least two years of verifiable military work experience in law enforcement showing successful completion of a military law enforcement career-training course. OR Must possess at least two years of verifiable civilian work experience in law enforcement showing successful completion of a Municipal Police Training Council Basic Course for Police Officers or other related training as may be deemed appropriate by the appointing authority or designee in accordance with NGB hiring requirements. AND Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age.

Must be a High School Graduate or equivalent (GED). Must be able to read and write in English. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision or with other individuals in a team/group setting.

Ability to push, pull, lift and carry heavy objects and equipment (50+ lbs). Ability to work outside in various temperatures and inclement weather for extended periods of time. WILL BE REQUIRED TO CARRY FIREARMS.

Must have or be legally eligible to obtain a permit to carry a handgun in New York State. At all times must meet requirements to carry firearms in accordance with National Guard Bureau and Air Base specific standards. Firearm requirements are in accordance with the authority of Title 10 United States Code (U.S.C.) 8013, Secretary of the Air Force, Air Force Instruction (AFI) 31-117, and EO 9397 (SSN), current and as amended

Must be eligible to obtain a permit to carry a handgun in New York State (NYS). May be required to obtain a NYS permit for base specific requirement. Appointees will be afforded a length of time equal to that of the required probationary period in which to obtain permit but will not be deemed permanent until proof of permit is provided.

At the time of hire and annually thereafter, must meet mission specific weapons qualification requirements. Individuals convicted of domestic violence are not eligible for hire or retention. Any arrests/convictions related to domestic violence must be reported through the Chain of Command.

At the time of hire and annually thereafter, must meet and maintain physical fitness and agility standards established in accordance with Agency and NGB policy requirements. Separate entry level and annual maintenance programs will be applied in accordance with Agency and NGB policy requirements. At the time of hire and annually thereafter, must meet the medical screening requirements to include drug testing, as established in accordance with Agency and NGB policy requirements.

At the time of hire and annually thereafter, must meet and maintain all mission specific proficiency training requirements to include, but not limited to, Use of Force, Rules of engagement and Search/Handcuffing, including annual evaluations. Must be eligible to be designated as a Peace Officer; training may be required. (Note: this may be a Base specific requirement.

Peace Officers are required to maintain residence in the State of New York) Must obtain and maintain a favorable background investigation and have an appropriate clearance to allow access to computer networks and restricted areas to determine suitability, loyalty, and trustworthiness. Dependent on current regulation, this will minimally be a National Agency Check with Inquiry (NACI) but may require a SECRET or CLASSIFIED clearance. Required to have or successfully complete within 90 days of receiving computer access, all training associated with assigned data systems such as SFS, GFEBS and the Statewide Learning Management System (SLMS) and/or other computer training as related to duty assignments.

Should related regulations, procedures and requirements change, additional training and/or certifications may be required. Required to report any personal arrest by local, state, or federal law enforcement authorities to the CSF or designated representative within 24 hours of incident. Convictions other than those for domestic violence will be addressed on an individual basis.

State Human Resources must be notified. Must possess a valid driver's license to operate a motor vehicle in the State of New York. Must report any changes to supervisory chain and State Human Resources (MNHS).

In accordance with current NGB policies, will be required to obtain and maintain a military driver's license identifying appropriate vehicles authorized for operation - this will include physical evaluation requirements. In accordance with National Guard Regulations there may be additional Air Base Specific requirements in order to accomplish necessary security protocols to meet and maintain the Base mission. Maintaining all minimum qualifications, and Base authorization to obtain government issued weapons/firearms to perform duties, is a condition of employment.

At all times, the employee MUST maintain minimum standards in accordance with current statutes, Agency requirements and directives. Failure to do so will subject the individual to disciplinary action and/or termination. NOTE: Position standards illustrate the nature, extent and scope of duties and responsibilities of the position described.

Standards cannot and do not include all of the work that might be appropriately performed by an incumbent. The minimum qualifications above are those which were required for appointment at the time the Position Standards were written. Please contact State Human Resources Directorate for current information on minimum requirements for appointment.

Additional Comments This position is not in the Classified Service of New York State, but is covered under New York State Military Law. If selected, current Civil Service employees will lose their seniority within the Classified Service, thereby exempting them from applying for promotional exams within Civil Service. Current Start Rate: $52,694* Job Rate: $64,321 (*All hires begin at "Start Rate" unless prior state experience affords eligibility for hiring step increase as determined by OSC.) In addition: Stewart ANGB receives a Mid-Hudson Adjustment of $2,000 annually

Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


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