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Private Security Guard Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Park Ranger

Springfield, MO · On-site

$45K - $81K/yr

... guard or armed forces reserves OR Three (3) years of full-time successful ownership and management ... private security contractor within the last five (5) years OR Three (3) years of full-time ...

Private Security Guard information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do private security guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for private security guard in Springfield, MO is $16.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $15.82 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 cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Private Security Guard jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Private Security Guard job openings:

Infographic showing various Private Security Guard job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,758 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

$45K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Protect patrons, staff, and property of park facilities and recreational trails.

  • Communicate with law enforcement agencies and other groups as part of law enforcement duties.

  • Work flexible shifts based on staffing needs and special events.


City Of Springfield (Missouri) rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

546th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description The Springfield-Greene County Park Board is looking for Park Rangers. This is a full-time, fully-commissioned law enforcement position protecting the patrons, staff, and property of 105 park facilities and 75+ miles of recreational trails. The Park Ranger division is committed to providing quality service through personal integrity, fairness, communication, and sense of community pride.

Rangers will be in communication with the Greene County Sheriff's Office, Springfield Police Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol and crime lab, the Juvenile Justice Department and other specialty law enforcement agencies and groups. This is a great opportunity to work with a highly experienced team of professionals dedicated to providing the safest parks in Missouri. Positions will work a semi-set shift determined by the department, but candidate will need to be flexible based on staffing needs and special events like the Turkey Trot, & Harvest Fest...just to name a few

This position will be open until filled. Applications received by August 13, 2026 are guaranteed review. Benefits include: Generous paid leave Paid pension retirement Paid health insurance and MUCH MORE.

Click here. About the Springfield-Greene County Park Board The Springfield-Greene County Park Board strives to provide the very best in parks and recreation facilities, programs, events, and services to our community. In doing so, we will make a positive impact on the overall quality of life, health, environmental, social, and economic aspects for our resident families and visitors alike.

The Park Board system includes 105 parks sites, ranging from neighborhood playgrounds to multi-use recreational facilities to trails and natural resource areas. The Park Board is proud to be fully accredited, ranking among the top 2 percent of parks and recreation agencies in the country, as well as a recipient of the National Recreation and Park Association's Gold Medal Award and the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. You may learn more about our department at http://www.parkboard.org

Leadership Philosophy The City of Springfield's leadership culture is grounded in processes, relationships, and trust. Leaders across the organization operate within the principles of The Trust Edge Framework, which emphasizes: Clarity, Compassion, Character, Competency, Commitment, Connection, Contribution, and Consistency These principles guide how we work together, build relationships, and serve our community. Qualifications and Requirements Experience, Education, and Training for Park Ranger: Must be a high school graduate or have passed the high school equivalency exam, 21 years of age, a United States Citizen; AND Have two years of law enforcement experience.

ADDITIONALLY Candidates who possess at least 12 months of experience as a Park Ranger Recruit with the Parks Department, including completion of the Springfield Police Department's full Police Academy, qualify for Park Ranger. Must possess POST Class A license (if candidate does not possess a Missouri POST Class A, but possesses law enforcement certification through another state, candidate may participate in the hiring process while seeking reciprocity through Missouri POST). Must be current in P.O.S.T

continuing education requirements up to prior calendar year. Must pass Missouri state exam and maintain POST requirements, and maintain good-standing and eligibility as a Commissioned Officer. Possess a valid driver's license.

Possess or ability to obtain CPR and First Aid certification within probationary period. Park Ranger division employees must meet and pass requirements and maintain eligibility as a Commissioned Officer. This posting has the ability to be underfilled as a Park Ranger Recruit, If no qualified applicant applies at the Park Ranger level by the deadline.

Experience, Education, and Training for the Park Ranger Recruit Must be a high school graduate or have a G.E.D. AND 30 semester credit hours from an accredited college or university OR Class A P.O.S.T. certified peace officer or currently enrolled in a Class A P.O.S.T

program with successful passing of P.O.S.T. exam within six months of application deadline OR Two (2) years of experience as a Police Service Representative OR Two (2) years of experience as a Traffic Services Officer OR Two (2) years of experience as a 911 dispatcher and/or telecommunicator OR Two (2) years of active duty military service with an honorable discharge OR Four (4) years of honorable military service in national guard or armed forces reserves OR Three (3) years of full-time successful ownership and management of a business within the last five (5) years OR Three (3) years of full-time employment as a correctional or detention officer within the last five (5) years OR Three (3) years of full-time employment as a licensed professional security or private security contractor within the last five (5) years OR Three (3) years of full-time employment working in the professional trade industry within the last five (5) years OR Three (3) years of full-time employment in the last five (5) years providing paraprofessional work experience to the public or community in one of the following fields: social services, health care services, and/or education PREFERRED Law enforcement experience and/or education preferred, but not required. Licensing/Certification Must be certified through the Missouri Department of Public Safety as a peace officer within twelve (12) months of hire date; Must pass state exam and meet and maintain P.O.S.T

requirements. Possess a valid Driver's License. Possess or ability to obtain CPR and First Aid certification within probationary period.

Functions Park Ranger: (Salary Range $22.05/hr - $39.19/hr) For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the Park Ranger job description. If filled as a Park Ranger Recruit - Park Ranger Recruit: (Salary Range $20.41/hr - $32.87/hr) For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the Park Ranger Recruit job description. Other Requirements Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability and Vet The City of Springfield promotes equal employment opportunities to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or other legally protected status

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. Individuals with disabilities who believe they will need an accommodation to undergo any part of the interview, examination, or pre-employment process, should request a reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to the testing or appointment. Requests should be requested by contacting City of Springfield Human Resources by phone, 417-864-1607, or in person at the Municipal Busch Building, 840 Boonville Ave.

Springfield, MO 65802. Proof of United States Citizenship/Authorization to Work in the United States as established by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 is a condition of employment. We are committed to a drug-free workplace.

Pre-employment drug testing is required. All interested candidates MUST complete the City of Springfield on-line application in its entirety. The candidate profile must include all employment history with accurate and complete information prior to submission.

Resumes alone will not be accepted as the application, but they may be submitted as supplemental documentation.


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