Employment prospects as a security guard in Quebec
The profession of security guard is essential for ensuring the protection of people and property. As a private security professional, a security guard plays a key role in risk prevention, managing emergency situations, and maintaining order in various contexts. The employment prospects for security guards in Quebec for the period from 2024 to 2026 are described as moderate. But what does this mean for current and future security guards who wish to enter this profession?
Understanding the “moderate” prospects in the security sector
When we talk about moderate prospects, it means there is a certain balance between the available job supply and the demand for these positions in the region, with neither a shortage nor an oversupply of labor in the market. Simply put, there are employment opportunities, but they are not necessarily abundant. The increase in the number of positions will occur at a slower pace compared to other rapidly growing sectors. Security guards will need to stand out with their skills and professionalism to seize the best opportunities.
Why are these prospects moderate? Several factors influence this analysis, including the stability of the security sector and the evolving needs in different areas of private security. On the one hand, the demand for security guards is driven by retirements, staff turnover, and growing needs due to precarious economic conditions and an increasing sense of insecurity in certain sectors.
The impact of retirements and staff turnover
A key factor shaping employment prospects in the private security sector is the aging of the workforce in this profession. Like many other sectors, security guards, especially the most experienced ones, are approaching retirement age. According to the latest statistics, many workers in this field are nearing retirement age. This creates a dynamic where some vacant positions will be filled by new professionals. However, it is important to emphasize that the departure of experienced workers could also create opportunities for qualified workers ready to step into their roles.
Staff turnover is also a factor that impacts employment prospects. Due to the specific working conditions in this profession, such as irregular hours, emergency interventions, and sometimes difficult situations, a number of security guards leave the profession or seek to transition into other sectors. This phenomenon generates opportunities for new or less experienced workers to find a job, especially if they are well-prepared for these challenges.
The growing demand for security services
Employment prospects in the security field are also fueled by the increasing need for protection in public and private establishments. This includes not only government administrations but also businesses of all sizes and citizens. The need for security in places such as retail stores, office buildings, shopping malls, healthcare facilities, and social services is rising. In particular, the worsening economic precarity and the rise in homelessness are driving increased demand for security services.
Private companies, whether large chains or smaller businesses, are increasingly recognizing the importance of security to ensure the protection of their employees, clients, and assets. This trend is particularly noticeable in sensitive sectors such as stores, hospitals, and public or private events. Security guards are increasingly involved in event security, care facilities, or even remote surveillance assignments through surveillance technology.
Public events or large-scale gatherings, whether sports, cultural, or political, also generate growing demand for security guards capable of managing crowds and maintaining order while preventing incidents. This gives security guards the opportunity to diversify into different areas and find varied jobs, particularly if they are willing to train for these new challenges.
The importance of flexibility and versatility
Security guards who manage to stand out in the job market are those who are flexible and willing to take on different types of positions. Employment prospects are better for those who accept varied assignments in different areas of security, such as surveillance with the Sûreté du Québec (SQ), security in care centers, or event security. This versatility allows them to adapt to the growing demand for security services and gain broader experience in the field.
Security guards who are willing to travel and work in regions less served by large urban centers (Montreal, Quebec City, Longueuil) can also access more job opportunities. By being willing to travel up to 45 minutes or 1 hour from their home, they increase their chances of finding a position and being noticed by recruiters who are looking for competent and flexible profiles.
Preparing for success: necessary skills and training
To stand out and maximize their chances of getting a job, a security guard must not only have great availability but also demonstrate professionalism and skills. Here are some key elements that allow a security guard to stand out in the job market:
A well-organized CV and an exemplary professional background: The CV is a crucial element to attract the attention of recruiters. It should reflect not only relevant professional experiences but also completed training, such as CPR certification, crisis management, and customer service courses. A well-presented and up-to-date CV is a major asset for getting noticed.
Interview Presentation: The attitude and appearance of a security guard during an interview are essential. The candidate must present themselves professionally and demonstrate their ability to follow instructions and handle stressful situations. To help you prepare for an interview, check out our article on How to Prepare for a Security Guard Job Interview.
A neat and appropriate uniform: During field assignments, it is crucial that the security guard wears a spotless uniform and follows the dress code imposed by their employer. A neat and appropriate uniform reflects the guard’s professionalism and respect for industry standards.
Continuous training: The security sector is constantly evolving, and it is important for security guards to regularly update their skills to stay competitive. Continuing education is a great way to stay current on new practices and technologies and to access new opportunities.
Leadership and communication skills: A security guard with leadership qualities and good communication skills will always be a valuable asset to a security team, especially in surveillance or event-related missions.
Opportunities beyond Montreal and Quebec City
Although large cities like Montreal and Quebec City offer numerous job opportunities, security guards can find interesting assignments in less populated areas of Quebec. For example, cities like Sherbrooke, Trois-Rivières, or Gatineau offer promising prospects, as do regions such as Mauricie, Centre-du-Québec, or Gaspésie. By relocating for assignments in these regions, security guards can not only access more positions but also benefit from interesting working conditions and a quality of life that is often quieter and more affordable.
Employers in these regions, while fewer in number than in large metropolitan areas, are constantly looking for qualified and reliable workers. This represents an excellent opportunity for security guards who want to diversify or start their career in developing sectors.
Event security: a growing niche
Event security is a sector that has experienced exponential growth in recent years. Due to the increase in large-scale events—concerts, festivals, public demonstrations, sports competitions—the demand for well-trained and experienced security guards is rising sharply. Security guards are tasked not only with surveillance but also with managing the flow of people, preventing risks, and intervening quickly when needed. Crowd management and conflict resolution skills are highly valued in this field.
Conclusion: a profession with a bright future
Employment prospects for security guards in Quebec are moderate, but this does not mean there are no opportunities. By standing out through their skills, professionalism, and flexibility, security guards can access varied jobs and evolve within a profession that is essential to the safety of people and property. By continuing to train and adapt to the needs of the market, security guards can not only find stable employment but also build a rewarding career, no matter which sector they choose to work in.
With proper preparation, a professional attitude, and strong motivation, this profession offers interesting opportunities and a promising future.
