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Security Officer Trainee Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Safety & Security Officer Trainee: High School Diploma or High School Equivalency Diploma or similar equivalency such as a General Education Development Certification or higher degree. Safety ...

Security Officer Trainee information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$10

$24

$55

How much do security officer trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for security officer trainee in Rochester, NY is $24.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $28.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a security officer trainee?

Security Officer Trainees are individuals who are in the process of learning the skills and responsibilities required to become fully qualified security officers. They typically undergo training programs that cover topics such as surveillance, emergency response, legal regulations, and customer service. During this period, trainees often work under the supervision of experienced officers and may be required to pass exams or obtain certifications. The goal is to prepare them to protect people, property, and information effectively once they complete their training.

What are some typical challenges security officer trainees face during their initial training period?

Security Officer Trainees often face challenges such as adapting to shift work, learning to stay vigilant during periods of low activity, and quickly familiarizing themselves with site-specific protocols. They must also develop strong communication skills to effectively report incidents and collaborate with other team members. Overcoming initial nerves when dealing with the public or handling unexpected situations is common, but with support from experienced officers and ongoing training, most trainees adapt successfully.

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

To thrive as a Security Officer Trainee, you need a basic understanding of security procedures, physical fitness, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with surveillance cameras, access control systems, and the ability to obtain relevant security certifications are typically required. Strong observation skills, integrity, and effective communication help trainees excel in monitoring environments and responding to incidents. These skills and qualifications are critical for maintaining safety, deterring threats, and ensuring quick, appropriate responses to security situations.

What is the difference between Security Officer Trainee vs Security Guard?

AspectSecurity Officer TraineeSecurity Guard
CertificationsMay require basic security training, sometimes a licenseOften requires security license or certification
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, entry-level security rolesActive security posts, patrols, access control
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning security procedures, observing, reportingMonitoring premises, enforcing rules, patrolling

The Security Officer Trainee is an entry-level position focused on training and gaining experience, often requiring basic certifications. In contrast, a Security Guard is a fully qualified role responsible for maintaining security at various sites. The trainee role serves as a stepping stone to becoming a licensed security guard, with similar work environments and responsibilities but at different stages of professional development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Security Officer jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Security Officer jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Security Officer Trainee jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Security Officer Trainee job openings:

Safety and Security Officer 1 / Trainee (NY HELPS), Rochester Psychiatric Center, P27687

Rochester, NY • On-site


New York State
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 188 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 50 rated states

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$46K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Duties Description Are you interested in starting or advancing your career with New York State. Safety & Security Officer positions provide excellent opportunities growth and advancement. Candidates from outside or within State Service can apply.

As a Safety and Security Officer 1 / Safety and Security Officer Trainee, you are responsible for maintaining safety and security, environmental health, and protection in the buildings and grounds at [Facility Name] including: Patrolling and inspecting assigned areas; ensuring areas are properly locked and secured. Conducting safety inspections of assigned areas and equipment for compliance with safety codes and regulations. Screening visitors and vehicles, issuing temporary parking permits and badges.

Transporting or escorting individuals, visitors, and employees on and off facility grounds. Responding to incidents and emergencies. Minimum Qualifications Candidates from outside or within State Service can be considered for hire under the Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement - Statewide (NY HELPS) program as a Safety & Security Officer Trainee 1 if they have a High School or equivalent diploma or higher degree.

OR Candidates from outside or within State Service can be considered for a competitive class appointment if they are reachable on the current Safety & Security Officer Trainee 1 eligible list. OR Candidates from within State Service can be considered for a competitive class appointment if they have one year of permanent competitive or 55-b/55-c service in a title eligible for transfer under Section 70.1 of the Civil Service Law. In order to be advanced to the full performance level of this title, Safety & Security Officer 1 SG-12, you must successfully complete a 1-year traineeship and Academy Training mandated by the Municipal Police Training Council

Additional Comments All OMH employees receive a generous benefits package including: NYS medical, dental, & vision insurance Access to tuition assistance programs Excellent opportunities for advancement & professional growth Paid time off - 13 paid vacation days in the first year, 5 paid personal days, 13 paid holidays, & paid sick leave NYS Retirement programs Additional Comments: Safety and Security Officer Trainee: Equated to SG - 9 / $46,921 - $57,901 Safety and Security Officer 1: SG - 12 / $55,012 - $67,564 There are multiple positions available. Note: 1. Background checks will be required.

2. You must possess a valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State at the time of appointment and continuously thereafter. Conditional licenses are not acceptable.

3. Safety & Security Officers are public officers under State law. At appointment you must be a resident of New York State and at least 18 years old.

New York State residency is required to accept and continue employment. 4. Safety & Security Officers are peace officers and must be qualified to hold such office in accordance with State law.

Safety & Security Officers must meet requirements for peace officer status for continued employment. US citizenship is required at the time of appointment. 5.

Physical/Medical: An evaluation of your physical and medical condition will be done to ensure that you are able to perform the duties of this position with or without reasonable accommodation. The physical/medical standards include but are not limited to height and weight, speech, vision, hearing, cardiovascular, respiratory system, and neurological health requirements. A complete statement of the physical and medical standards is available at: http://www.cs.ny.gov/ehs/forms.cfm

A medical examination is required prior to appointment. Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.



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