Before making a career change, it is important to be aware of all the relevant information you need to make your decision.
Most often, the first question we have revolves around salary expectations. If you’re considering a career as a security guard, you should know that although there are many entry-level jobs that offer a starting pay close to minimum wage, your earning potential depends on your experience, your location, and your employer.
Security Guard Wages by Region and Experience
As with most jobs, having more job experience in security will likely mean your wages will be on the higher end.
According to the Government of Canada’s wage report (updated on October 1, 2019), hourly pay for security guards ranges from $11.50 to $24.86. The median hourly wage in Canada is $15.96.
Besides experience, your location makes a significant difference due to labour agreements, working conditions, and workforce availability. As you can see in the table below, Nunavut’s median hourly wage is substantially higher at $28.78, and on the high end, it goes all the way up to $44.56 per hour.
Wages in $/hour in Canada
| Province | Low | Median | High |
| British Columbia | $13.85 | $15.39 | $27.00 |
| Alberta | $15.00 | $18.00 | $26.00 |
| Saskatchewan | $12.00 | $15.00 | $23.00 |
| Manitoba | $12.10 | $14.93 | $23.00 |
| Ontario | $14.00 | $15.00 | $25.00 |
| Quebec | $13.50 | $17.50 | $25.52 |
| New Brunswick | $11.50 | $14.00 | $26.67 |
| Nova Scotia | $11.55 | $26.74 | $21,50 |
| Prince Edward Island | $12.25 | $12.60 | $20.50 |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | $12.00 | $16.00 | $23.00 |
| Yukon | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Northwest Territories | $16.00 | $18.39 | $23.00 |
| Nunavut | $13.00 | $28.78 | $44.56 |
LEARN MORE: How to Become a Security Guard.
Employer-dependent Compensation
Compensation packages for security guards vary depending on the employer and could include other factors. For example, this could be benefits, promotional opportunities, or paid training.
Payscale’s research shows that 45-47% of security companies offer their employees medical and dental benefits while 49% offer no health benefits at all.
It is also worth noting that some security companies prioritize their employees’ career growth by promoting from within.
LEARN MORE: How to write a stellar security guard resume (free template download).
Is a Security Guard Career Right For You?
There are other questions to take into account besides wages. To help you make an informed decision we have answered common questions people have when contemplating a career in security.
- Q: Is there a high demand for security guards?
According to the Government of Canada, between 2017-2026, new job openings are expected to total 47,400, while 45,500 new job seekers are expected to be available to fill them. In other words, there are slightly more jobs than security guards available and this trend is expected to continue.
As long as there is a need for companies and individuals to protect their assets, people and property, there will be a demand for security guards.
- Q: How many hours a week do security guards work?
Security guards typically have a choice between full-time, part-time, casual or shift work. If 9-5 doesn’t suit your lifestyle or needs, security jobs offer schedules around the clock. Whether you prefer working a night shift, early morning, or an afternoon shift, there are plenty of employment opportunities.
- Q: Is being a security guard boring?
Being a security guard is often more interesting than your average job. While you could choose work that involves being stationary at quiet sites, there are also positions that require being on patrol at high-traffic locations. Depending on your environment and situation, some days call for emergency response or fire safety, for example.
Additionally, you can often choose the industry that you’d like to work in. A few common industries that use security services include healthcare, retail, parking, banks and schools.
- Q: Are there opportunities for advancement?
If you’re hoping to eventually become a supervisor, manager or executive in a security company, starting as a security guard is often the best way to advance. Additionally, being a security guard can help you effectively prepare for a career in law enforcement.
What Top Security Guard Employers Have to Offer
At Paladin, we offer full-time employees extended health and dental benefits along with many corporate perks and partnerships. And when it comes to pay, Paladin has some of the most competitive wages in the country.
If you are thinking about a career change, we invite you to consider applying at Paladin Security—Canada’s Employer of Choice.
Unsure about which security role is the best for you? Take our quiz to find your fit with Paladin!
