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Security Associate Jobs in Oceanside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Be the face of Carvana at the gate for associates, vendors, and visitors. * Communicate like a pro - clear, calm, active listener, no missed signals. * Use our Unified Security Platform to monitor ...

New

Be the face of Carvana at the gate for associates, vendors, and visitors. * Communicate like a pro - clear, calm, active listener, no missed signals. * Use our Unified Security Platform to monitor ...

New

Unarmed Security

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Platinum Security, Inc. has been providing professional services for almost a decade. We pride ... Responsible for ensuring customer/associate safety Posses good customer service techniques Visual ...

Unarmed Security

San Diego, CA

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

Platinum Security, Inc. has been providing professional services for almost a decade. We pride ... Responsible for ensuring customer/associate safety Posses good customer service techniques Visual ...

Though the position is located in Cooley's San Diego, CA office, this associate will be engaged on ... Three to five years of public securities/capital markets experience, * SEC and exchange reporting ...

Candidate should have achieved or be working toward Microsoft Administration certification, Network Associate-level certification, or Information Security associate-level certification. Equal ...

Motorcycle Technician

Temecula, CA · On-site

$34 - $40/hr

Family culture with organized structure * Long term job security * Associate discounts on vehicles, service and parts purchases * Employee recognition programs * Leading competitive pay We are an ...

Family culture with organized structure * Long term job security * Associate discounts on vehicles, service and parts purchases * Employee recognition programs * Leading competitive pay We are an ...

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Security Associate information

See Oceanside, CA salary details

$11

$21

$54

How much do security associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for security associate in Oceanside, CA is $21.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $22.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a security associate?

Security Associates are professionals responsible for ensuring the safety and security of people, property, and information within an organization or facility. Their duties often include monitoring surveillance equipment, patrolling premises, controlling access points, and responding to incidents or emergencies. Security Associates may also perform checks, write reports, and assist law enforcement when necessary. The role requires attention to detail, good communication skills, and the ability to respond quickly and effectively to potential security threats.

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

To thrive as a Security Associate, you need a strong understanding of security protocols, incident response, and surveillance, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and sometimes security certification. Familiarity with CCTV systems, access control software, and incident reporting tools is typically required. Exceptional observation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These skills are important to effectively protect people and property, respond to emergencies, and ensure a safe environment.

What situations might a security associate encounter during a typical shift, and how are they expected to respond?

As a Security Associate, you may encounter various situations such as unauthorized access attempts, minor disturbances, lost property, or safety hazards. You are expected to assess each situation calmly, follow established protocols, and communicate effectively with both team members and the public. Quick decision-making and clear reporting are essential, as is collaborating with law enforcement or emergency services when necessary. Regular training helps you stay prepared for diverse scenarios, ensuring the safety and security of the premises.

What is the difference between Security Associate vs Security Guard?

AspectSecurity AssociateSecurity Guard
CredentialsTypically requires a security license or certification, sometimes basic trainingOften requires a security license or certification, similar training
Work EnvironmentIndoor and outdoor settings, including retail, corporate, and event venuesPrimarily on-site at specific locations like malls, buildings, or events
Employer & IndustryEmployers include retail stores, corporate offices, and event organizersEmployers include malls, private properties, and security firms

Security Associates and Security Guards often share similar credentials and work environments, focusing on safety and surveillance. The main difference lies in their roles' scope; Security Associates may have more customer interaction and perform additional duties like monitoring systems, while Security Guards typically focus on patrol and access control. Both roles are essential for security in various settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Security jobs in Oceanside, CA?

The most popular types of Security jobs in Oceanside, CA are:

What cities near Oceanside, CA are hiring for Security Associate jobs?

Cities near Oceanside, CA with the most Security Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Security Associate job openings in Oceanside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,515 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Security Associate - 2nd Shift

San Diego, CA • On-site


Carvana
Automobile Dealers • 5 - 10K employees

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 281 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

145th of 738 rated retailers

People enjoy working here

Paid breaks

Respectful managers


$21/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Schedule (Open Availability Highly Preferred):
  • Mon, Thurs, Fri 2PM-10:30PM, Sat/Sun 6AM-2:30PM

Pay Range: $21 hourly
About Carvana
At Carvana, we believe buying a car the old-fashioned way sucks - so we're rewriting the playbook. Yes, we're the vending machine people. Yes, we built that on purpose. And yes, we're just getting started.
We're looking for people who want to thrive in an environment of impactful change. Team spirit shows up in everything we do - every day, our passion and creativity drive the kind of innovation that moves an industry. We take big swings, set ambitious goals, and challenge each other to make data- and process-driven decisions in everything we do. Here are a few of our stories. We've been changing the game since 2013, and we're not letting up. Want the full story? Check it out here.
About the team and position
Our Safe & Secure team is the heartbeat of every Carvana location. You're the people we trust to protect our associates, our customers, and the thousands of vehicles that flow through our gates every day. Rain, shine, ice, or 110° heat - the mission doesn't change, and neither does the standard.
This is a boots-on-the-ground role. We bring the strategy; you bring the hustle. From clearing snow during a winter storm to running heat-safety protocols in July, you'll be the reason our site stays open, safe, and moving. Some days you'll be at the gate - the literal face of Carvana to every associate, vendor, and visitor walking through it. Other days, you'll be out on the lot scanning vehicles, knocking out safety audits, or restocking the supplies that keep this place humming.
You won't just monitor a perimeter - you'll own it. That means spotting hazards before they become incidents, building real relationships with the folks on site, and stepping up when something needs your attention. You'll be trained and trusted to act in emergencies, partner with our Inspection Center and Logistics teams, and feed sharp, accurate intel back to your Safe & Secure leadership. Hourly position, reporting to your Safe & Secure Functional Lead or Manager.
What you'll be doing
  • Lead with a service-first mindset in every interaction.
  • Live the Carvana values - and make sure they're felt by everyone you work with.
  • Be the face of Carvana at the gate for associates, vendors, and visitors.
  • Communicate like a pro - clear, calm, active listener, no missed signals.
  • Use our Unified Security Platform to monitor live cameras, review footage, and investigate intrusion alerts so nothing on site catches us off guard.
  • When things get hot, keep it cool. De-escalate, win with partners, and remember - we're all in this together.
  • Run point at the gate using the Safe & Secure App (SAS App) and RFID tech, enforcing ingress/egress procedures every single time.
  • Manage and document vehicle movement through the Inspection Center entrance and exit gates.
  • Show up when the team needs you. You'll be trained and certified in first aid, CPR, and AED - and we expect you to use it when the moment calls for it.
  • Know our emergency protocols cold so you can act decisively when seconds count.
  • Keep the site operational in any weather - snow removal in winter, heat-safety protocols in summer, no excuses, no shortcuts.
  • Drive a safety-first culture by spotting environmental hazards, running safety audits, and reinforcing best practices with the people around you.
  • Scan thousands of vehicles a day to keep operational flow tight - between mobile rover tech and manual handheld scans, every car gets accounted for.
  • Cover ground. This role involves serious walking to reach restricted or hard-to-access areas of the lot.
  • Run vehicle location research and deliver clean, detailed reports to leadership when operational questions come up.

Key Metrics:
  • Unit Loss Rate versus Plan
  • Safe & Secure App Execution
  • Inventory Control/Accuracy and Tracking
  • Safety Incident Performance

What you should know/have
  • 1-2 years in a customer service environment
  • Strong verbal and written communication
  • A track record of solid decision-making in a complex, fast-moving environment
  • Ability to build strong working relationships and connect with people quickly
  • Ability to organize, plan, and execute multiple tasks at once in a fast-paced setting
  • Ability to handle conflict in a positive, productive way

We'd love it if you also have
  • Familiarity with CCTV, RFID, Card Access, or other Safe & Secure technology
  • Previous experience supporting an OSHA / Safety Team program
  • Experience with crisis prevention and/or response plans

What we'll offer in return
  • Full-time hourly position with a competitive wage
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits
  • 401(k) with company match
  • A stack of perks - student loan support, vehicle discounts, pet benefits, and a lot more
  • A wellness program built to keep you healthy, physically and mentally
  • Real opportunities to grow your skills and share what you know across the org
  • A promote-from-within culture with a startup feel - career paths can move fast around here
  • A seat at one of the fastest-growing companies in the country

Other requirements
To do your job at Carvana, there are some basic requirements we want to share with you:
  • Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • This position is designated as a safety-sensitive position
  • Must be able to lift up to 60 pounds independently; the majority of lifting from knee to shoulder heights; other lifting required from various levels
  • Must be able to carry and transport up to 60 pounds up to 20 feet
  • Requires standing for extended periods of time with frequent stretching, reaching, walking, stooping, pushing, and/or pulling in an environment that may be cold, hot, noisy, and wet, and may have fumes or odors due to vehicle maintenance
  • Requires excellent visual acuity and manual dexterity
  • Requires use of safety equipment that may include, but is not limited to, face shield or goggles, non-slip shoes, gloves, mask, and other protective garments and equipment
  • Requires frequent driving and computer data entry
  • Must adhere to regular and predictable attendance
  • The facility is a 24/7 operation, and gates must be manned at all times

Of course, we'll make any reasonable accommodations for those with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their jobs.
Legal stuff
Hiring is contingent on passing a complete background check. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Carvana is an equal employment opportunity employer. All applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, age, mental or physical disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law. Carvana also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any protected category.
Please note that this job description is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Carvana logo

About Carvana

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Carvana, we sell cars, but we're not salespeople. Since 2013, we've been making it our mission to change the way people buy cars. We saw a huge problem with how much it can suck to buy a car the traditional way, so we committed ourselves to tackling one of the largest, yet-to-be-disrupted markets in the world - the $1T per year U.S. car market (yes, that's $Trillion with a "T").

Industry

Automobile dealers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tempe, AZ, US

Year founded

2011


What Carvana employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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