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Security Guard Job: Salary, Qualification, Duty Hours and How to Join

Security guard jobs are available in every city, with steady demand. Here is what the work involves, what it pays, and how to join a genuine agency.

By Raaz sharma. Published 2 Nov 2026. 3 min read.

The short answer: security guards protect offices, housing societies, factories, malls, banks and events. Most jobs need Class 8, 10 or 12 pass, basic fitness and police verification. Salaries in cities usually range from about ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 a month, higher for 12-hour shifts, armed guards or supervisors.

What does a security guard do?

  • Controls entry and exit, checks ID cards and maintains visitor registers
  • Patrols the premises and reports anything unusual
  • Monitors CCTV in some posts
  • Handles parking, deliveries and keys
  • Responds to fire alarms and emergencies, and helps with evacuation
  • Writes a duty report at the end of each shift

Salary and duty hours

RoleApprox. pay / monthTypical shift
Security guard (8-hour shift)₹10,000–₹16,0008 hours, rotating day/night
Security guard (12-hour shift)₹14,000–₹20,00012 hours
Lady security guard₹11,000–₹18,000Mostly day shift
Security supervisor₹16,000–₹25,000Manages a team of guards
Armed guard (licensed)₹18,000–₹30,000Banks, cash vans, VIP duty

Salary figures in this article are approximate monthly ranges seen in job posts across Indian cities in 2026. Actual pay depends on the city, employer, state minimum wages and your hours — always check the job post.

Ask whether PF and ESIC are deducted and deposited — a genuine agency shows these in your salary slip, which also protects you with medical cover and savings.

Qualification and training

  • Minimum education is usually Class 8 to 12, depending on the employer.
  • Good physical fitness and eyesight.
  • Private security agencies in India are licensed under the Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act, 2005 (PSARA), and guards are expected to receive training. Ex-servicemen are often preferred for supervisor roles.
  • Fire safety and first-aid training is a big plus.

Documents needed

  • Aadhaar card and PAN card
  • Education certificate
  • Police verification certificate
  • Passport-size photos and a bank account

How to choose a genuine security agency

  • Check that the agency has a PSARA licence for your state — you can look it up on the PSARA portal.
  • Get your salary, shift hours and weekly off in writing.
  • Make sure you receive a salary slip showing PF and ESIC.
  • Do not pay large "uniform" or "joining" fees. Read how to identify a fake job offer.

Career growth

Security Guard → Head Guard → Supervisor → Security Officer → Security Manager. Training certificates, a clean record and basic English help you move up faster.

Find openings: security guard jobs on JobZeno.

Frequently asked questions

What is the qualification for a security guard job?

Usually Class 8 to 12 pass, good fitness, and police verification. Some employers prefer ex-servicemen or candidates with security training.

Do security guards get PF and ESIC?

Guards employed through registered agencies should get PF and ESIC as per law. Check your salary slip every month.

Are there jobs for female security guards?

Yes. Malls, hospitals, offices, schools and events hire lady security guards, mostly for day shifts and frisking duty.

Is a 12-hour shift normal for security guards?

Many posts use 12-hour shifts, but they should pay more than 8-hour shifts and include a weekly off. Confirm the terms in writing.

Sources

  1. Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act, 2005 — PSARA portal, accessed 2026-11-02

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