ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Security Associate Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

NW Natural

Security Specialist

Portland, OR · On-site

$64K - $86K/yr

Associate's degree or equivalent experience in security or related field * 2 or more years of experience in physical security or access control systems; 5 or more years with demonstrated depth of ...

NW Natural

Security Specialist

Happy Valley, OR · On-site

$64K - $86K/yr

Associate's degree or equivalent experience in security or related field * 2 or more years of experience in physical security or access control systems; 5 or more years with demonstrated depth of ...

NW Natural

Security Specialist

Portland, OR · On-site

$64K - $86K/yr

Associate's degree or equivalent experience in security or related field * 2 or more years of experience in physical security or access control systems; 5 or more years with demonstrated depth of ...

NW Natural

Security Specialist

Portland, OR · On-site

$64K - $86K/yr

Associate's degree or equivalent experience in security or related field * 2 or more years of experience in physical security or access control systems; 5 or more years with demonstrated depth of ...

NW Natural

Security Specialist

Portland, OR · On-site

$64K - $86K/yr

Associate's degree or equivalent experience in security or related field * 2 or more years of experience in physical security or access control systems; 5 or more years with demonstrated depth of ...

U.S. Navy

Law Enforcement & Security

Gresham, OR · On-site

Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to ... College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on ...

U.S. Navy

Law Enforcement & Security

Vancouver, WA · On-site

Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to ... College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on ...

U.S. Navy

Law Enforcement & Security

Portland, OR · On-site

Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to ... College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate degree through the American Council on ...

NTT Data, Inc.

Security Officer L1

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Ensures that the client, its associates, and NTT Data Center personnel are provided with a safe and professional work environment. * Monitor and maintain security technologies, including CCTV systems ...

NTT Data, Inc.

Security Officer L1

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Ensures that the client, its associates, and NTT Data Center personnel are provided with a safe and professional work environment. * Monitor and maintain security technologies, including CCTV systems ...

NTT DATA

Security Officer L1

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Ensures that the client, its associates, and NTT Data Center personnel are provided with a safe and professional work environment. * Monitor and maintain security technologies, including CCTV systems ...

McMenamins

Crystal Ballroom Security Staff

Portland, OR

$17 - $20.75/hr

McMenamins Crystal Ballroom is Hiring for Security Staff! McMenamins is a family-owned company in ... sales associates, from server to manager and many other continuing stories within McMenamins.

Legacy Health

Safety Security Officer II

Portland, OR · On-site

$24.60 - $35.17/hr

As a Safety Security Officer II , you represent Legacy's commitment to safety by protecting our ... Associate's degree in criminal justice or related field preferred. Experience: * Minimum two years ...

Legacy Health

Safety Security Officer II

Portland, OR · On-site

$24.60/hr

As a Safety Security Officer II , you represent Legacy's commitment to safety by protecting our ... Associate's degree in criminal justice or related field preferred. Experience: * Minimum two years ...

Legacy Health

Safety Security Officer II

Portland, OR · On-site

$24.60 - $35.17/hr

As a Safety Security Officer II , you represent Legacy's commitment to safety by protecting our ... Associate's degree in criminal justice or related field preferred. Experience: * Minimum two years ...

Legacy Health

Safety Security Officer II

Portland, OR · On-site

$24.60 - $35.17/hr

As a Safety Security Officer II , you represent Legacy's commitment to safety by protecting our ... Associate's degree in criminal justice or related field preferred. Experience: * Minimum two years ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSecurity Associate JobsSecurity Associate Jobs in Portland, OR

Security Associate information

See Portland, OR salary details

$11

$21

$55

How much do security associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for security associate in Portland, OR is $21.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $23.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 types of 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 Security Associates?

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 most commonly searched types of Security jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Security jobs in Portland, OR are:
Armed Security Guard

Armed Security Guard

STRATEGIC SECURITY CORP

Happy Valley, OR • On-site

$30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Summary
As an Armed Security Guard, you will be responsible for protecting people, property, and assets while maintaining a visible armed security presence within a government, corporate, retail, or commercial environment. This role requires strict adherence to post orders, use-of-force policies, and all applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Armed officers are expected to exercise sound judgment, maintain situational awareness, and respond appropriately to security threats, emergencies, and criminal activity. Responsibilities include conducting armed patrols, monitoring surveillance and alarm systems, controlling access points, deterring criminal behavior, and preparing detailed incident reports.
In addition to security enforcement, this role supports SSC's G.E.T. Principles - Greet, Engage, and Thank, ensuring professionalism and positive engagement with customers, visitors, and associates while maintaining authority and control.
Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct armed security patrols on foot or by vehicle, as assigned
  • Maintain lawful possession and safe handling of assigned firearm at all times
  • Observe, deter, and respond to criminal activity, threats, or suspicious behavior
  • Monitor CCTV, alarms, and access control systems
  • Control access and egress points and verify authorized entry
  • Identify and address safety hazards or irregular conditions
  • Respond to emergencies and critical incidents in accordance with use-of-force policy
  • Notify and coordinate with law enforcement and emergency responders as required
  • Prepare accurate, detailed written reports on incidents, accidents, and suspicious activity
  • Preserve evidence and maintain scene integrity when necessary
  • Maintain a clean, professional, and command-presence post area

Customer Service & Engagement (G.E.T. Principles)
  • Greet customers, guests, tenants, and associates in a professional, respectful manner
  • Engage proactively while maintaining situational awareness and officer safety
  • Thank individuals for their cooperation and patronage when appropriate
  • Provide directions and general site information without compromising security
  • De-escalate situations verbally when possible and appropriate
  • Address concerns or complaints professionally and escalate to management when required

Education, Licensing & Firearms Requirements
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Must possess a valid State Armed Security Guard License/Card
  • Must possess a valid firearm permit and meet all state and local firearms requirements
  • Successful completion of an approved armed security/firearms training program
  • Must qualify with assigned firearm as required by SSC and state law
  • Must pass applicable licensing tests if operating a company-owned or client-provided vehicle

Experience
  • Verifiable work history required
  • One (2) years of armed security, military, or law enforcement experience

Skills & Abilities
  • Strong judgment and decision-making skills
  • Ability to remain calm and professional under stress
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to follow post orders, use-of-force policies, and legal requirements
  • Proficient basic computer skills for report writing and documentation
  • Strong observation, threat assessment, and situational awareness skills
  • High level of integrity, professionalism, and accountability
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

Additional Requirements
  • Must be at least 21 years of age (or higher if required by state law for armed positions)
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Must be able to operate radios, telephones, and monitoring equipment
  • Must demonstrate professionalism, restraint, and ethical conduct at all times
  • Must be able to de-escalate situations verbally prior to using force when appropriate
  • Subject to background check, drug screening, firearms qualification, and ongoing compliance requirements
  • Veterans may be required to provide a DD214 upon conditional offer of employment

Physical Requirements & Work Environment
  • Indoor and outdoor work environments with exposure to varying temperatures
  • Prolonged standing, walking, observing, and communicating
  • Ability to carry and operate assigned firearm and duty gear
  • Ability to respond quickly to emergency situations

Benefits & Perks
Full-Time Employees May Be Eligible For:
  • Major medical benefits
  • Paid vacation
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Ongoing firearms and professional development training

Additional Perks:
  • Weekly pay
  • Flexible scheduling (based on operational needs)
  • Employee discounts through corporate affiliate programs

About Strategic Security Corp. (SSC)
Strategic Security Corp. provides armed and unarmed security services to the United States Government and private-sector clients including Fortune 500 companies, financial institutions, medical facilities, warehouses, distribution centers, residential communities, and critical infrastructure sites nationwide.
SSC offers long-term career growth opportunities ranging from entry-level security roles to supervisory, management, and corporate leadership positions across the United States.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Strategic Security Corp. is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
For questions regarding Equal Employment Opportunity or application accommodations, please contact Corporate Human Resources at (888) SSC-RISK.

Apply