Welcome to Canada!
One of your first priorities after arriving in Canada will be to look for work so you can comfortably support your family and begin integrating into the Canadian way of life.
There are many jobs available in all regions of Canada but many of these jobs are difficult for new Canadians to get (for various reasons).
However, getting security jobs for new Canadians can be a great way not only to become gainly employed but also to start a rewarding career in a fast-paced and exciting industry.
Why become a security guard in Canada?
There is a high demand for security guards all across Canada and these jobs can provide you with a well-paying career while allowing for personal time to spend with family and friends.
A security guard job is a great starter job for anyone not only those just arriving in Canada. The requirements are easy to meet (assuming you have a working knowledge of English or French). You need to meet these requirements:
- Be over the age of 18 (19 in some provinces)
- Have a clean criminal record
- Complete the mandatory training
- Be legally able to work in Canada
The pay for security guards in Canada averagesaround $35,000 a year mark. Which is a decent salary foran entry-level job in Canada.
There is also an option for working part-time as a securityguard while you work at another job or attend school.
Here are some things you need to know before you start applying for asecurity guard job.
What new Canadians need to succeed in the security field
As a newly arrived person in Canada, there may be some qualities that you don’t yet have that securityguard employers are looking for.
These are not difficult to overcome with a little hard work and determination.
For any security position in a Canadian province or territory, you will need proper security training to hold a valid security guard license. This is required to secure a position as a security guard.
Language Fluency
You need to be able to communicate with your employer, co-workers, and the public in English (French in Quebec). Alberta and British Columbia make English fluency arequirement for licensing.
No need to worry asthere is plenty of help available to help you become fluent. Theseinclude:
- English language schools and courses areavailable able across Canada and will provide a certificate to document yourproficiency. A great resource isUltimate Guide to Learning English in Canada.
- Community-based groups and churches may also offer free courses for new immigrants. Do a Google search on “free English classes” + city name. Eg:free English classes in Toronto
- Public libraries are a great resource not only for free classes but also for books, CDs and DVDs on learning English. There are also courses offered online by various websites. Skillshare is just one example.
As with any skill, the more you use it the better you will become. Don’t be shy and start using your new language skills at every opportunity and you will get better very quickly.
Security Guard Training
To become a security guard, you need to complete the mandatory training legislated by the province you will be working. These requirements vary slightly from province to province so make sure you have completed all the required training for your province.
You will also need to have a clean criminal record.
While not mandatory in ALL provinces having first aid and CPR training is a big asset where it is not obligatory, such as in Alberta.
As mentioned above some provinces have different requirements For example, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and BC have 19 as the minimum age to be licensed as a security guard. In all of the other provinces, the age is 18.
Here are links to the requirements for each province:
- Alberta
- British Columbia
- Manitoba
- New Brunswick
- Nova Scotia
- Ontario
- Prince Edward Island
- Quebec
- Saskatchewan
Once you have completed the training you will need to pass a provincial exam. Passing grades vary by province but if you prepare and study you should have no problem in passing.
Once you have passed the exam and have received your valid security guard license you can start applying for security guard jobs.
Read our guide to preparing for your security guard interview.
We wish you the best of luck in your new country and with your new career!
Last Updated on Dec 7, 2023
