Security Jobs With No Experience: How To Get Started

Security is one of the few industries where you can start with no direct experience, as long as you get licensed and show that you are reliable. Everyone in the industry had a first shift somewhere.

Step one: get a licence

For most beginners, the SIA Door Supervision licence is the best first step. It covers pubs, clubs and events, and allows you to work in general guarding roles too.

Where beginners get hired

• Large security contractors that hire regularly.
• Event companies, especially during festival season.
• Retail and construction sites.
• Relief and weekend cover roles.

What gets you hired without experience

Punctuality, a clean and checkable history, good communication and a calm manner. Customer service, hospitality or team sport experience counts — explain it in your application.

Building from there

Aim to add one skill or qualification each year: better first aid, supervision, CCTV or specialist training. Once you have real experience behind you, create a profile that shows the progress you have made.