1

Security Guard Night Shift Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Security Guard

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Security Guard Oceanside, CA Day, Swing, Night & Weekend shift $22 - 25/ hour Key Responsibilities: * Monitor premises, including buildings and surrounding areas, to prevent unauthorized access and ...

Security Guard

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Security Guard Oceanside, CA Day, Swing, Night & Weekend shift $22 - 25/ hour Key Responsibilities: * Monitor premises, including buildings and surrounding areas, to prevent unauthorized access and ...

Security Guard Oceanside, CA Day, Swing, Night & Weekend shift $22 - 25/ hour Key Responsibilities: * Monitor premises, including buildings and surrounding areas, to prevent unauthorized access and ...

Security Guard

Manteca, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Security Guards should expect to work any shift. Must be available to work weekends, nights, and holidays. Qualifications * High school diploma, G.E.D., or equivalent. * Open availability. Must be ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Security Guard Night Shift information

See California salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do security guard night shift jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for security guard night shift in California is $18.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a security guard on the night shift do?

A Security Guard on the night shift is responsible for protecting property, assets, and people during nighttime hours. Their duties often include patrolling the premises, monitoring surveillance cameras, checking entrances and exits, responding to alarms, and reporting suspicious activities. Night shift guards play a crucial role in deterring theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access when a facility is less populated. They may also be responsible for ensuring that doors and windows are secure and for providing assistance in emergencies. Effective communication and alertness are essential skills for this position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a security guard on the night shift?

To thrive as a Security Guard Night Shift, you need a solid understanding of security procedures, physical fitness, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, often with a security guard license. Familiarity with surveillance cameras, alarm systems, and communication devices is essential for monitoring premises effectively. Strong observation skills, integrity, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure safety, prevent incidents, and respond quickly to emergencies during overnight hours.

What are some common challenges faced by security guards working night shifts, and how can they be managed?

Security guards on night shifts often encounter challenges such as staying alert during late hours, dealing with low visibility, and responding to unexpected situations when staffing levels are minimal. To manage these, it’s important to maintain a healthy sleep routine, use periodic patrols to stay engaged, and communicate regularly with supervisors or team members. Developing strong observation skills and familiarity with the site’s protocols also helps address potential risks efficiently during nighttime hours.

What is the difference between Security Guard Night Shift vs Security Guard Day Shift?

AspectSecurity Guard Night ShiftSecurity Guard Day Shift
Work HoursTypically overnight, e.g., 10 PM - 6 AMTypically daytime, e.g., 8 AM - 4 PM
Work EnvironmentLess crowded, quieter, often in industrial or commercial settingsBusier, more public, in retail or office environments
Required CertificationsSame as day shift, often includes security licenseSame as night shift, often includes security license
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across retail, industrial, and commercial sectorsCommon in retail stores, offices, and public venues

The main difference between Security Guard Night Shift and Day Shift lies in the working hours and environment. Night shift guards work overnight in quieter settings, while day shift guards work during regular hours in busier environments. Both roles typically require similar certifications and are used across various industries.

How do I become a security guard night shift?

To become a security guard for night shifts, you typically need to complete a state-mandated training course, obtain a security guard license or registration, and pass a background check. Relevant skills include observation, communication, and the ability to work independently during overnight hours.

How much money do security guard night shift make?

Security guards working night shifts typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. Night shift work often includes additional pay or shift differentials, which can increase overall earnings. Annual salaries generally range from $25,000 to $45,000 for full-time night shift security guards.

What do I need to be a security guard night shift?

To work as a security guard on the night shift, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid security guard license or certification as required by your state or country, and good observational and communication skills. Some employers may also require background checks and training in emergency procedures or first aid. Physical fitness and the ability to work overnight hours are important for this role.

What cities in California are hiring for Security Guard Night Shift jobs?

Cities in California with the most Security Guard Night Shift job openings:

Infographic showing various Security Guard Night Shift job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,072 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description


JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title:                        Security Guard

Supervisor:                    Executive Director   FLSA Status:                 Hourly, non-exempt

Date Approved:        March 2022

 

OVERALL JOB PURPOSE

Identify and report incidents, responsible for the security and safety of residents at assigned community.  Periodically tour the community to identify any irregularities, observe protection and fire control equipment, and enforce regulations for the facility in regard to the premises, personnel, and visitors.

MINIMUM JOB QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • One-year related experience preferred
  • Flexible schedule, including availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
  • Fire Safety and CPR/first aid training a plus
  • Ability to periodically move about on foot in the community to perform security checks and assist residents, particularly for long distances or periods
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively (in English), both verbally and in writing, with residents and staff
  • Ability to work in a team setting and be a team player
  • Maintain a positive, respectful, and professional approach with coworkers and residents
  • Possess excellent customer service and organizational skills
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Maintain a secure environment for all residents and associates within building and community grounds
  • Greet visitors while monitoring the inside and outside of the building
  • Guard and monitor premises to prevent and detect signs of intrusion and ensure security of doors, windows, and gates
  • Call police or fire department in cases of emergency, such as fire or presence of unauthorized persons
  • Write reports of daily activities and irregularities, such as equipment or property damage, theft, presence of unauthorized persons, or unusual occurrences
  • Lock hallway doors at designated time(s) and check the security of doors regularly throughout the night
  • Handle resident questions or inquiries regarding security
  • Monitors resident call and exit alarm systems and handling of emergency procedures by responding appropriately and notifying management and families if a resident requires assistance
  • Performs housekeeping functions for community dining area by vacuuming and spot cleaning carpets; removing cobwebs from ceilings and walls; and dusting furniture, shelves, light fixtures, and other surfaces
  • Fold dining napkins and laundry as needed
  • Perform other duties as assigned by Executive Director 
OTHER JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Perform all work assigned for the agreed-upon salary, accepting no additional payment or non-perishable gifts from residents, vendors, Community management, or others
  • Meet the assigned work requirements of the job, regular attendance is required
  • Serve as a role model for all employees by displaying a responsible, cooperative, and positive attitude
  • Represent the Community in the Community in a professional, courteous, and friendly manner
  • Adhere to dress/appearance code.  Changes in attire may be dictated by special occasion or weather conditions. If you have questions, check with your supervisor
  • Adhere to company policies, procedures, and standards
  • Promote resident advocacy and demonstrate excellent customer service at all times
  • Attend education and training classes as necessary to fulfill state regulations applicable to the position
  • Maintain personnel, resident, and business proprietary and/or confidential matters/material in strict confidence with management of the company (and/or other company staff as needed)
  • This position is considered a universal employee worker and will be crossed trained in other positions as directed by the supervisor 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: 

Sunshine Retirement Living (The Company) proudly provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where residents, employees, and families feel respected and valued, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.

 Salary-History Statement: 

Sunshine Retirement Living (The Company) is committed to fair and equitable pay practices. We do not request or consider an applicant’s past or current salary when making compensation decisions, in compliance with applicable salary history and pay equity laws.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

 

20% or less

20% to 40%

40% to 60% 

60% to 80%

80% to 100%

Stand


X


Walk


X


Sit


X


Pushing, pulling and/or reaching


X


Grasping and fine manipulation


X


Climb or balance


X


Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl


X


Talk or hear