Director, Security Operations (Sony Pictures)
WHAT YOU DO: A Hollywood studio security operations director oversees a contracted guard force of 150 officers responsible for access control to the studio and other properties; and requests for security services.
EDUCATION: Security officers in California are required to attend class to obtain a Guard Card, and continuing education is required. Depending on the industry you work, you could expect further training including firearms, customer service, handcuffing and arrest and control techniques.
USEFUL SKILLS: A positive outlook, great observations skills, but most importantly - GOOD COMMUNICATION skills. Understand the business you work at -- if you work at a studio, understand how the studio works.
HOW TO GET IN: Apply to reputable security services providers, or look for entry level opportunities at various corporations.
CAREER PATH: Continue to grow and learn. Take classes relative to the business you support, seek out leadership opportunities and continue to grow. Attend security seminars and other related training offered by law enforcement.
PAYBACK: Mid-career managers can earn upward of $75,000 to $100,000
DOWNSIDES: Entry level requires working odd-shifts and some element of danger if you accept a job transporting money or other high value items for clients.
FUTURE OF JOB: Security officers are always in demand. The need for security remains steady throughout the world. Those leaving law enforcement careers and prior military are especially sought after to work in other countries.
NETWORKING: http://www.bsis.ca.gov/
https://www.asisonline.org/
http://jps.anl.gov/
http://www.securitydirectornews.com/
http://www.securitymanagement.com/
Video produced by students at LACES (Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies) working with Gigniks' careers media program.