Security Officer

Security Officer

New York, United States

Company
Columbia University
Location
New York, NY (+2 others)
Job Type
Full-time
Via
via Careers At Columbia University

Job Description
• Job Type: Support Staff - Union
• Bargaining Unit: TWU - Security
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• End Date if Temporary:
• Hours Per Week: 40
• Standard Work Schedule:
• Building:
• Salary Range: $25.76 - $25.76

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

Position Summary

The Security Officer protects Columbia University personnel and facilities against the hazards of fire, accidents and vandalism; maintains law and order, and enforces all regulations, including those in manual for Security Officers.

Responsibilities
• The Security Officer protects Columbia University personnel and facilities against the hazards of fire, accidents and vandalism.
• Maintains law and order, and enforces all regulations, including those in manual for Security Officers.
• Protects the building structure and grounds to which officer is assigned, including the contents, occupants and visitors.
• Patrols as assigned and seeks out and takes preventive action against existing hazards or conditions which may cause injury, damage or interference with the usual operation, and reports same immediately.
• Guides visitors in a courteous manner and assists as directed.
• Returns lost or found articles to Public Safety Office.
• Assists ill or injured persons in obtaining care and treatment, and reports such event immediately by radio or telephone and on proper report forms.
• Maintains order on post and makes request for necessary assistance from law enforcement agencies.
• Makes court appearances as required.
• The Security Officer may be assigned to any of the Columbia University Manhattan Campuses.

Minimum Qualifications
• High school diploma and/or its equivalent required. Candidates given a tentative/conditional job offer must possess and maintain a valid NYS Guard License as a requirement, NYS Dept. of State's 8 hour mandated certificate of training required.
• Must be physically fit and able to pass a physical exam.
• The incumbent should be able to engage in strenuous physical activity, including climbing stairs, as well as standing or sitting for long periods of time.
• Must also be willing and able to perform duty in inclement weather conditions.
• Ability to write legible reports, use a portable radio, and use judgment that is sound and proper when addressing emergency situations.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Security Guard Jobs in United States

Q What is the median hourly wage for security guards in the United States in 2026?
As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for security guards is $19.96 as of May 2026. The lowest 10 percent earn $14.00 per hour, while the highest 10 percent earn $28.75 per hour. Annual median pay totals $41,500 for full-time workers.
Q What is the federal minimum wage for security guard jobs in the United States in 2026?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division, the federal minimum wage for security guards under FLSA is $7.25 per hour as of January 1, 2026. Overtime pay is required at 1.5 times the regular rate for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek. 30 states mandate higher rates, such as $16.50 per hour in California.
Q What work visa is required for foreign nationals to work as security guards in the US in 2026?
As per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, security guard jobs typically qualify under H-2B temporary non-agricultural worker visas with a FY2026 cap of 66,000 visas plus supplemental allocations up to 64,000. Employers must file Form I-129 with a $460 fee and obtain temporary labor certification from DOL. H-1B visas do not apply due to lack of specialty occupation status.
Q What education and experience are required for security guard jobs in the US?
As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, no formal postsecondary education is required, but a high school diploma or GED is preferred by 70 percent of employers. Entry-level positions need no prior experience, though 40 hours of on-the-job training is standard. Applicants must be 18 years old with a clean criminal background.
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