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Merchant Security Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Retail Security Officer $22h

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview Allstate Security provides professional security services throughout California - from San ... Report suspected theft or merchandise concealment to store management immediately. * Do not detain ...

Retail Security Officer

San Bernardino, CA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Retail Security Officer Schedule: Alternating Schedule (2-3 Days per Week) 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Paid ... Report observed theft or concealment of merchandise to store management immediately. * Prohibited ...

Retail Security Officer

San Bernardino, CA ยท On-site

$23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Report observed theft or concealment of merchandise to store management immediately. * Prohibited ... Valid BSIS security guard license * Preferred: Experience in bouncer, events, military, or ...

Security Guard

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Receive, store and log CH merchandise given to Security for pick up. Give said merchandise to authorized person after verifying identity. * Communicate effectively with the security team and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Merchant Security information

See California salary details

$14

$26

$40

How much do merchant security jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for merchant security in California is $26.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a merchant security officer do?

Merchant security officers are professionals responsible for protecting retail stores, shopping centers, or commercial premises from theft, vandalism, and other security threats. Their duties often include monitoring surveillance cameras, patrolling store floors, checking for suspicious activity, responding to security breaches, and ensuring the safety of employees and customers. They may also assist with loss prevention strategies and cooperate with law enforcement if crimes occur on the premises.

What are the most common challenges faced by merchant security personnel in a retail environment?

Merchant Security personnel in retail settings often face challenges such as preventing shoplifting, managing confrontations with suspected offenders, and balancing customer service with vigilance. They must stay alert to suspicious behavior while maintaining a friendly and approachable demeanor for shoppers. Additionally, adapting to evolving security technologies and protocols, as well as collaborating with store management and local law enforcement, is crucial for effective incident response and loss prevention.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a merchant security officer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Merchant Security, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a good understanding of security protocols, and sometimes a valid security guard license. Familiarity with surveillance systems, alarm monitoring tools, and incident reporting software is often required. Strong observational skills, integrity, and effective communication help you quickly respond to threats and interact with customers or law enforcement. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure a safe environment for both staff and customers while protecting assets from theft or damage.

What is the difference between Merchant Security vs Merchant Loss Prevention Specialist?

AspectMerchant SecurityMerchant Loss Prevention Specialist
CertificationsSecurity licenses, CCTV trainingLoss prevention certifications, security licenses
Work EnvironmentRetail stores, malls, online platformsRetail stores, warehouses, distribution centers
Employer & IndustryRetail businesses, security firmsRetail chains, security companies

Merchant Security focuses on safeguarding retail premises through surveillance, access control, and security protocols. In contrast, Merchant Loss Prevention Specialists primarily work to prevent theft, fraud, and inventory loss by analyzing security data and implementing loss reduction strategies. Both roles require similar certifications and often operate within the retail industry, but their core responsibilities differ: one emphasizes overall security, the other focuses on loss prevention.

What job categories do people searching Merchant Security jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Merchant Security jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Merchant Security job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,628 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Retail Security Officer $22h

Allstate Security

Oakland, CA โ€ข On-site

$22/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Overview
Allstate Security provides professional security services throughout California - from San Francisco down to Los Angeles, and continuing all the way through our headquarters area in San Diego, CA. For nearly a decade, we've offered comprehensive security solutions to a variety of clients as one of California's premier security guard companies.
We specialize in armed guards, unarmed guards, patrol service, and mobile patrols. Our security officers will work seamlessly as a part of our team to secure premises, customers, employees, assets and everything in between.
Allstate Security provides reliable, qualified, professional officers who are trained and ready to respond to potential security threats and provide outstanding support and service.
Job Details
Schedule
Part-Time
Tuesday & Friday | 12:00 AM - 4:00 AM
Position Summary
The Security Officer provides a visible, professional, and courteous security presence within a retail environment. The primary responsibilities include deterring theft and disruptive behavior, maintaining a safe environment for employees and customers, and promptly reporting incidents, suspicious activity, and shoplifting.
Key Responsibilities
Customer Service & Deterrence
  • Greet and engage customers in a courteous and professional manner.
  • Maintain a visible security presence at the entrance and throughout assigned patrol areas.
  • Assist store staff and customers while maintaining professional boundaries.
  • Deter and document shoplifting using approved customer service techniques.
  • Represent the company through exceptional customer service and professionalism.

Patrol & Monitoring
  • Conduct routine interior and exterior patrols of the store, storefront, sidewalks, and parking areas.
  • Observe and report suspicious activity, safety concerns, and policy violations.
  • Remain alert and vigilant throughout the shift.

Incident Response & Reporting
  • Report criminal activity, emergencies, and safety concerns to management and law enforcement as required.
  • Complete Daily Activity Reports (DARs) and Incident Reports accurately and promptly.
  • Cooperate with emergency responders when necessary.

Loss Prevention Support
  • Report suspected theft or merchandise concealment to store management immediately.
  • Do not detain, pursue, question, or physically contact suspected shoplifters.
  • Maintain professionalism and avoid confrontation at all times.

Professional Standards
  • Arrive on time in full uniform with all required equipment.
  • Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.
  • Refrain from personal cell phone use, eating, smoking, or unnecessary conversation while on duty.
  • Follow all company, state, and client policies and procedures.

Qualifications
  • Active California BSIS Guard Card required.
  • Previous retail, event, hospitality, military, or security experience preferred.
  • Strong communication and customer service skills.
  • Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure.
  • Reliable transportation and dependable attendance.
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

Work Environment
This position is in a retail environment requiring frequent interaction with customers and store staff. Officers must demonstrate professionalism, strong customer service skills, and sound judgment while maintaining a safe and secure environment.
Certification Requirements
  • Guard Card
  • BSIS Guard Card
  • Drivers License/ State ID
  • Valid CA State ID/DL

Additional Information / Benefits
  • Paid Holidays
  • 401K/403b Plan
  • Dental Insurance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Sick Days
  • Vision Insurance
  • Medical Insurance