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Port Security Guard Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fair Event Security Guard

Hamburg, PA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

FAIR EVENT SECURITY GUARDS Seasonal Event Position Port Royal, PA September Multiple Positions Available $17.00-$19.00 per Hour Be part of one of the area's most exciting community events! KRE ...

Security Guard Job details Compensation $22.15/hourly Job Type Temporary part-time General ... port, in compliance with local, state, and federal guidelines and policies. This job works under ...

Security Guard Job details Compensation $22.15/hourly Job Type Temporary part-time General ... port, in compliance with local, state, and federal guidelines and policies. This job works under ...

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Port Security Guard information

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$11

$19

$25

How much do port security guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for port security guard in the United States is $19.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a port security guard?

Port Security Guards are professionals responsible for maintaining safety and security at ports and harbors. Their duties include monitoring access points, inspecting vehicles and cargo, checking identification, and responding to security breaches or emergencies. They play a crucial role in preventing unauthorized entry, theft, smuggling, and other illegal activities within port areas. Port Security Guards often work in collaboration with law enforcement and customs officials to ensure compliance with security regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by port security guards during daily operations?

Port Security Guards often encounter challenges such as monitoring large and busy port areas, managing access control for authorized personnel and vehicles, and responding quickly to security incidents or emergencies. They must remain vigilant for potential threats while balancing thorough security checks with maintaining smooth port operations. Effective communication and teamwork with law enforcement, customs officials, and port staff are essential to address these challenges efficiently.

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

To thrive as a Port Security Guard, you need a strong understanding of security protocols, surveillance techniques, and emergency response, often supported by a high school diploma and security guard certification. Familiarity with access control systems, CCTV monitoring, and communication devices is typically required. Excellent observation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for maintaining safety, preventing unauthorized access, and ensuring efficient operations in a high-risk port environment.

What is the difference between Port Security Guard vs Cargo Security Officer?

AspectPort Security GuardCargo Security Officer
CredentialsSecurity guard license, possibly specialized port security trainingSecurity license, cargo handling and safety certifications
Work EnvironmentPort terminals, security checkpoints, perimeter patrolsCargo areas, shipping containers, freight yards
Employer & IndustryPort authorities, shipping companies, security firmsLogistics companies, freight handlers, shipping lines
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Both Port Security Guards and Cargo Security Officers work in port environments, focusing on security. Port Security Guards primarily monitor port perimeters and access points, while Cargo Security Officers concentrate on safeguarding cargo and freight. Their roles often overlap but differ in specific duties related to cargo handling versus perimeter security.

More about Port Security Guard jobs

What cities are hiring for Port Security Guard jobs?

Cities with the most Port Security Guard job openings:

Infographic showing various Port Security Guard job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,591 per year, or $19 per hour.

$90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

This vacancy is for a GS-0080-12, Security Specialist (International Port) located in the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Coast Guard, Atlantic Area (LANTAREA); Preparedness Division; International Port Security Branch in Portsmouth, Virginia.
Qualifications:

To qualify at the GS-12 grade level, your resume must demonstrate at least one (1) full year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-11 grade level in the federal sector. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped you with the ability, skill, and knowledge to successfully perform the duties of this position and is typically in or related to this line of work. Examples of specialized experience include performing the following types of tasks on a regular basis.

  • Supporting port assessments involving national security and providing recommendations that may have nationwide or international impact on maritime commerce.
  • Improving port security through the development, promulgation, deployment and/or implementation of operational doctrine, tactics, techniques or procedures
  • Analyzing information available and making recommendations as to whether a particular country and its ports are compliant with international security requirements
NOTE: All experience statements (i.e., duties, specialized experience, or related applicable assessment) copied from this announcement and pasted into your resume will not be considered as a demonstration of your qualifications for this position.
NOTE: Education can not be substituted for experience at this grade level.
National Service Experience (i.e., volunteer experience): Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:This position does not have a positive education requirement. If you are including education on your resume, report only attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. See Required Documents section for detail.
Only experience and education obtained by the closing date of this announcement will be considered.Employment Type: OTHER