Event Specialist - Security

Event security provides protection and aid for attendees at events like conferences and concerts. These security guards travel to different venues and must familiarize themselves with new surroundings at every new event. They patrol venue grounds and buildings with a perceptive eye. Event security guards are typically paid per event and don’t work standard full- or part-time hours. They follow a chain of command and usually have a direct supervisor overseeing the entire event to whom they report. Event security guards may also work with local police if the situation calls for it.

Event Security Guard Duties and Responsibilities

The event security guard’s duties may change based on the event and the venue where the event is held.

Monitoring the Event

For the majority of the event schedule, event security guards monitor the people at the event to ensure rules are followed and everyone is acting safely. They provide a sense of protection to attendees and staff. They may even escort VIPs to and from the venue. Depending on the event location, some security guards may monitor the venue from a secure room using surveillance cameras.

Maintaining Order

Events can get crowded, and event security guards are expected to maintain order throughout the entirety of the event. This often includes directing foot traffic and helping lost people find their friends or loved ones. In the event of a disturbance that requires evacuation, event security guards maintain order to help attendees evacuate quickly and safely.

Escort Attendees Out of Events

Events where alcohol is served can often get rowdy, and event security guards escort attendees out of the venue as needed and prevent them from reentering. They may also need to escort attendees who are experiencing health problems into a clear and safe area.

Make Regular Reports

Event security guards are responsible for reporting all suspicious activity to their direct supervisors and fellow guards. They do this through two-way radios and direct verbal communication.

Suppress Disturbances

If fights break out during the event or an attendee tries to reach a VIP, event security guards are responsible for suppressing the disturbance. This includes holding the suspect until police arrive and take the appropriate action.

Event Security Guard Skills and Qualifications

Event security guards work well under pressure and can keep their cool during stressful situations. They should be able to identify threats quickly and act accordingly on their instincts. The following skills are highly preferred.

• Security/military/law enforcement experience – event security guards excel in their roles when they have previous military or law enforcement experience
• Authoritative presence – event security guards should have an authoritative presence that event guests and staff can see. They are able to give orders and expect them to be followed
• First aid skills – event security guards should have first aid skills that they can use in case an attendee or staff member is injured or experiences other health complications
• Active listening – when a disturbance happens, event security guards need to use active listening to understand what is going on. They also take reports from witnesses and accurately record them
• Communication skills – communication is key for event security guards, and they should be able to speak clearly with their coworkers, event staff, and attendees

Tools of the Trade

Event security guards typically use a variety of tools in their line of work, including the following:

• Security systems (video surveillance and alarms)
• Two-way radios
• Defensive tools (pepper spray, batons, tasers)