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Private Security Guard Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Security Guard II

Franklin, TN ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

The Security Guard will help maintain the safety and security of the In-N-Out Burger facility in ... privately owned and operated. Under the direction of the Snyder family, the company has opened ...

Security Guard II

Franklin, TN ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Security Guard II Location: Franklin, TN Work Type: Full-time Department: Enterprise Security ... privately owned and operated. Under the direction of the Snyder family, the company has opened ...

Security Guard II (Part-Time)

Franklin, TN ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Name: Security Guard II (Part-Time) Location: Franklin, TN Work Type: Part-time Department ... privately owned and operated. Under the direction of the Snyder family, the company has opened ...

New

Security Guard II (Part-Time)

Franklin, TN ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

The Security Guard will help maintain the safety and security of the In-N-Out Burger facility in ... privately owned and operated. Under the direction of the Snyder family, the company has opened ...

Security Officer

Newport, TN ยท On-site

$13.75 - $16.25/hr

Security Guard license required. * Arkansas: Private Security Officer (PSO) registration or Commissioned Security Officer (CSO) license required. Arkansas Boiler Operator license required. Successful ...

Security Officer

La Follette, TN

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Security Guard license required. * Arkansas: Private Security Officer (PSO) registration or Commissioned Security Officer (CSO) license required. Arkansas Boiler Operator license required. Successful ...

Security Officer

La Follette, TN ยท On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Security Guard license required. * Arkansas: Private Security Officer (PSO) registration or Commissioned Security Officer (CSO) license required. Arkansas Boiler Operator license required. Successful ...

Armed Security Officer

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$12 - $20/hr

Private Protective Services - Armed Security Office r/ Guard Requirements A security guard/officer is an individual employed by a contract security company or a proprietary security organization to ...

Armed Security Guard

Memphis, TN ยท On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Serve as an armed private security officer for assigned clients, and follow established and applicable laws, rules, and regulations involving investigation, apprehension, and detention. * Observe and ...

Watchforce (WF) Guards enhance the safety and security of persons and property through active ... private sector organization, or similar. * Knowledge of security systems and equipment in a ...

Watchforce Guard I - PT / Temp

Oak Ridge, TN ยท On-site

$16.11 - $21.54/hr

Watchforce (WF) Guards enhance the safety and security of persons and property through active ... private sector organization, or similar. * Knowledge of security systems and equipment in a ...

Security

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

Security Guard - 1 - 2+ years experience. Responsible for monitoring activities within stores; screening all traffic, entering and exiting the store and conducting clearance and loss prevention ...

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Private Security Guard information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do private security guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for private security guard in Tennessee is $17.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $17.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a private security guard?

Private security guards are professionals hired by individuals, businesses, or organizations to protect people, property, and assets. Their duties can include monitoring surveillance equipment, patrolling assigned areas, checking for security breaches, and responding to emergencies. Unlike police officers, private security guards do not have the same legal powers but play a crucial role in crime prevention and maintaining safety on private property. They may work in various settings such as malls, offices, residential communities, or events. Training and licensing requirements for security guards vary by region.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a private security guard?

To thrive as a Private Security Guard, you need strong observational skills, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by a security guard license. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control software, and basic first aid certification is typically required. Excellent communication, integrity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you stand out in this role. These skills are crucial to ensure safety, deter incidents, and respond effectively to emergencies in various environments.

What are common challenges faced by private security guards during their shifts?

Private security guards often encounter challenges such as managing access control for large groups, responding to unexpected incidents, and maintaining vigilance during long or overnight shifts. Adapting quickly to changing situations, such as dealing with trespassers or diffusing minor conflicts, is a crucial part of the job. Security guards also need to balance maintaining a visible presence to deter issues while providing helpful and professional customer service to clients, visitors, or employees.

What is the difference between Private Security Guard vs Security Officer?

AspectPrivate Security GuardSecurity Officer
CredentialsSecurity license or certification, sometimes specialized trainingSecurity license, basic training often required
Work EnvironmentPrivate properties, events, corporate facilitiesPublic spaces, government buildings, retail stores
Employer & IndustryPrivate companies, organizationsGovernment agencies, private firms

Both Private Security Guards and Security Officers require similar credentials and often work in security roles within private or public sectors. While their work environments may differ slightly, their primary goal is to ensure safety and security. The choice between the two often depends on the employer and specific job setting.

How do I get a job as a private security guard?

To become a private security guard, you typically need to meet age requirements, pass a background check, and complete required training or licensing depending on your location. Obtaining certifications such as first aid or CPR can improve job prospects, and some employers prefer candidates with prior security or law enforcement experience. Applying through security firms or job boards and demonstrating reliability and alertness are key steps in securing employment.

How much do you get paid as a private security guard?

Private security guards typically earn an average hourly wage between $12 and $20, depending on experience, location, and the specific employer. Salaries can range from around $25,000 to $50,000 annually for full-time positions, with additional pay for night shifts or specialized security roles. Certifications such as CPR or first aid can also influence pay rates.

What are popular job titles related to Private Security Guard jobs in Tennessee?

For Private Security Guard jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Private Security Guard jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Private Security Guard job openings:

Infographic showing various Private Security Guard job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,933 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Unarmed Security Guard

Nashville, TN โ€ข On-site

$14/hr

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Licensed Unarmed Security Guard

Topps Private Investigation and Security Firm is a fast growing and rapidly expanding security company providing exceptional service to both government and private business. In addition to contract security, TPISF provides a wide range of services including private investigation, background checks, and state funded enrollment services.

We are seeking 1 high-quality, experienced, and professional licensed unarmed security guard in the Nashville, TN area. If you are looking for a positive and team-work based environment, then we are the company for you!

Positions available:

  • Full time and Part time positions available
Qualifications:
  • Current and active State of TN Unarmed Security Guard License
  • Security Guard experience
  • High School Diploma or GED
Job Requirements:
  • Maintain professional dress and appearance (uniform provided)
  • Maintain visual presence in main lobby as the first point of contact for anyone entering the building
  • Maintain visitor sign-in book and follow procedures for signing in visitors
  • Document accurate and concise reports by recording observations, occurrences, and information of any doors found unsecure, propped open, etc. in daily security log
  • Complete at least one site keycard scan per hour at each site
  • Ensure main exterior doors are locked and/or only accessible by resident keycard and elevators are in proper working order at the start of the shift by use of keycard
  • Contact Metro Nashville Police Department for non-emergency and 911 for emergencies AND supervisor immediately following
  • Report to supervisor no later than the day following each shift of any problems encountered
  • Additional duties as assigned

Job Type: Full time

Salary: From $14.00 per hour

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift
  • Overnight
  • Monday - Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

  • Nashville, TN: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

Security guard: 2 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

  • State of TN Unarmed/Armed Security Guard License (Preferred)

Work Location: In person