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Security Guard Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Unarmed Security Guard

Pawtucket, RI

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

In alignment with fellow security staff and Operations' teams, the Security Guard fosters best practices that are compliant with federal/state regulations and respectful of our company policies and ...

Security Guard

Providence, RI · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Job Summary The Providence Center Security Guard ensures the safety and security of the Center, its clients, visitors, and staff by preventing and responding to incidents involving crime, fire ...

Security Guard

Providence, RI · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Job Summary The Providence Center Security Guard ensures the safety and security of the Center, its clients, visitors, and staff by preventing and responding to incidents involving crime, fire ...

Unarmed Security Guard

Providence, RI

$16.25 - $19/hr

We have several Retail Locations, Construction Sites, and Night Clubs that we have Unarmed Security Guard openings for. At Retail Locations and Construction sites you are required to observe and ...

Unarmed Security Guard

Providence, RI · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

We have several Retail Locations, Construction Sites, and Night Clubs that we have Unarmed Security Guard openings for. At Retail Locations and Construction sites you are required to observe and ...

Unarmed Security Guard

Providence, RI · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

We have several Retail Locations, Construction Sites, and Night Clubs that we have Unarmed Security Guard openings for. At Retail Locations and Construction sites you are required to observe and ...

... security response capability during actual or simulated incidents. Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website: Experience refers to ...

... security response capability during actual or simulated incidents. Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website: Experience refers to ...

SECURITY GUARD

Newport, RI · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Job Duties You will be subject to shift work to include: call back, overtime, weekends, and holidays. You will be subject to interruptions from meals or other work breaks. You will be required to ...

SECURITY GUARD

Newport, RI · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Job Duties You will be subject to shift work to include: call back, overtime, weekends, and holidays. You will be subject to interruptions from meals or other work breaks. You will be required to ...

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Security Guard information

See Rhode Island salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do security guard jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for security guard in Rhode Island is $18.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $18.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What security guard gets paid the most?

Security guards working in specialized roles such as executive protection, armed security, or those with advanced certifications like firearms training tend to earn higher salaries. Additionally, security personnel in high-risk environments or working for private corporations and government agencies often receive higher pay compared to standard security roles.

How to get hired as a security guard?

To get hired as a security guard, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and obtain any required state or local licensing or certification. Relevant skills include observation, communication, and sometimes first aid or CPR training. Employers often prefer prior security or law enforcement experience and may require physical fitness assessments.

How much does it cost to get a security license?

The cost to obtain a security license varies by state but generally ranges from $50 to $150, covering application fees, background checks, and training requirements. In many cases, security guards must complete a training course and pass a licensing exam before applying for the license.

How much does a security guard get an hour?

The average hourly wage for a security guard in the United States is around $15 to $20, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Security guards working in high-risk areas or with specialized skills may earn higher wages, and some work overnight or on weekends, which can affect pay rates.

What Does a Security Guard Do?

Security Guards work in various organizations to provide site or inventory monitoring and crime prevention activities. This may include actively patrolling an area on foot or in a security vehicle, or standing guard at key entrances or exits. In other cases, Security Guards may monitor security video footage and check credentials for those entering a facility. In an emergency they help direct emergency vehicles and police; they may also administer basic first aid. Security Guards keep accurate logs of daily or nightly activities and report any concerns to their supervisor. Ultimately, a Security Guard seeks to de-escalate a conflict whenever possible, but on occasion, they may need to restrain an individual. A job as a Security Guard likely demands non-traditional hours; some facilities require security for nights, weekends, and holidays.

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

To thrive as a Security Guard, you need a keen sense of observation, basic security procedures knowledge, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by relevant licensing. Familiarity with surveillance systems, alarm panels, and incident reporting software is commonly required. Strong communication, alertness, and reliability are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial to effectively protect people and property, respond to emergencies, and maintain a secure environment.

What are Security Guards?

Security guards are professionals responsible for protecting property, assets, and people from theft, vandalism, and other potential dangers. They monitor surveillance equipment, patrol assigned areas, and enforce rules and regulations to maintain safety. Security guards may work in a variety of settings, including businesses, schools, hospitals, and public events. In addition to preventing crime, they often respond to emergencies and provide assistance to visitors or employees as needed.

What is the difference between Security Guard vs Security Officer?

AspectSecurity GuardSecurity Officer
CertificationsSecurity Guard license, sometimes specialized trainingSecurity Guard license, often similar certifications
Work EnvironmentPrivate properties, retail stores, eventsCorporate buildings, government facilities, industrial sites
Employer & IndustryPrivate security firms, retail, event managementCorporations, government agencies, industrial companies

Security Guards and Security Officers often share similar certifications and work environments, but Security Officers typically work in more formal settings like corporate or government facilities. Both roles focus on maintaining safety and security, with the main difference being the specific work environment and employer type.

What are some common challenges Security Guards face during their shifts, and how are these typically managed?

Security Guards often encounter challenges such as managing unauthorized access, handling emergencies, and dealing with difficult individuals. These situations require strong observation skills, quick decision-making, and adherence to established protocols. Most employers provide regular training and clear guidelines to help guards respond effectively and safely. Team communication and support from supervisors are also essential in ensuring that challenges are managed professionally and incidents are reported accurately.
What are the most commonly searched types of Security Guard jobs in Rhode Island? The most popular types of Security Guard jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Security Guard jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Security Guard job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Security Guard jobs in RI? For Security Guard jobs in RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Security Guard job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $38,772 per year, or $18.6 per hour.
Unarmed Security Guard

Unarmed Security Guard

Arrow Security

Pawtucket, RI

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Other

Posted yesterday


Arrow Security rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 116 rated security


Job description

Position Summary

A valued contributor to our respectful and rewarding work culture,the Security Guard is responsible for performing licensed security guarding duties to ensure the safety and security of assigned client location, its visitors, guests, residents and their property. By exhibiting vigilance and tactfulness in following company protocol, the Security Guard is perceptive at identifying situational risk within assigned areas and prompt in communicating events to Site Supervisor/ Manager on duty.

In alignment with fellow security staff and Operations' teams, the Security Guard fosters best practices that are compliant with federal/state regulations and respectful of our company policies and protocols, committing to the integrity of our Arrow mission to provide an excellent client experience.


Schedule

Saturday-Wednesday 4pm-12am

Pay Rate: 15.00

*Must have valid Driver's License for at least 3 years*

*Must be able to pass a background check*


WHY SHOULD YOU CONSIDER WORKING AT ARROW SECURITY?

Wouldn't you like to be part of an organization that respects and values all of its people? Where each person can make a difference and be heard because every person's role in the organization is important? At Arrow Security, we challenge our people in a beneficial way to grow both personally and professionally. We strive to offer the best compensation, benefits, flexibility and unique perks possible while promoting a positive work-life balance. At Arrow, we understand how important this is to our people. And our people are important to us.


Here is some of what we offer our valued security staff:

  • Weekly pay
  • Internal growth opportunities
  • Flexible scheduling opportunities
  • Employee PERKS program, including discounts on everyday purchases with many of our partners


Essential Job Responsibilities:

  • Provides onsite watch/protection of assigned post and designated perimeter
  • Observes, reports and supports client expectations
  • Reports all breaches per applicable methods
  • Utilizes company scheduling platform for clock-ins/clock-outs of scheduled shift
  • Evaluates and responds to alerts in surrounding area with professionalism and according to company protocol
  • Alerts Supervisor on Duty when situation requires escalation per company protocol
  • Assists fellow security guards with de-escalation when applicable per company protocol
  • Follows procedures for fire prevention, property patrol, and incident reporting
  • Works with diligence and respect to ensure the safety and security of assigned client, visitors and property
  • Adheres to all Company service and operating standards
  • Additional tasks as needed


Minimum Qualifications/Requirements:

  • Minimum 1 Year Security Guard Experience
  • Applicants to obtain background investigation in accordance with all federal, state, and local laws and reimbursed upon hire.
  • HS Diploma/GED
  • A valid driver’s license will be required for driving positions.


Founded in 1985, Arrow has perfected our approach to high quality security. As a true Super Regional guarding company, we are large enough to provide our Clients and Officers with the resources, technology, and supervision to deliver a superior security program while being nimble enough to react quickly and deliver an exceptional customer and employee experience. "We Care" about our Officers and make sure to take care of the people that take care of our Clients.


Arrow Security is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability that requires an accommodation to complete the application process, please email Arrow Security Human Resources Department at HRresolutions@arrowsecurity.net. Please include your full name, contact information and details about your request in the email.


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