Security Officer
Company
Columbia University
Location
New York, NY (+2 others)
Job Type
Full-time
Via
via Careers At Columbia University
Apply On
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.
• 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about Security Guard Jobs
What is the minimum wage for Security Guard Jobs in United States?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, the minimum wage for security guard jobs in United States is $7.25 per hour as of January 1 2026. Security guards receive overtime pay at 1.5 times the regular rate for all hours over 40 in a workweek under the Fair Labor Standards Act. This federal floor applies nationwide with no exceptions for the occupation.
What education and experience are required to qualify for Security Guard Jobs in United States?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, applicants for security guard jobs must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED as of 2026. No prior paid experience is required for entry-level unarmed positions though a clean criminal background check is mandatory. Armed guard roles additionally require state-specific firearms training completed before hire.
What documents are needed to apply for Security Guard Jobs in United States?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, applicants must submit a completed I-9 form with proof of identity and work authorization such as a U.S. passport or driver's license plus Social Security card. A state-issued guard registration card and recent background check results are also required before starting work in 2026. Employers file these documents within three business days of hire.
What are the standard working hours and benefits for Security Guard Jobs in United States?
As per the U.S. Department of Labor, security guards work a standard 40 hours per week with shifts typically limited to eight consecutive hours as of 2026. Full-time employees receive at least 40 hours of paid sick leave annually plus employer-sponsored health coverage after 30 days under ACA rules. Overtime is paid for any hours beyond 40 in a workweek.
