Security in Delaware


Security Jobs in Deleware differ by location and job duties, but there are many roles available with all levels of training and education.

About Delaware

Delaware, located on the east coast of the United States, is the only state completely located on the Delmarva Peninsula. The state neighbors Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia, and is across the Delaware Bay from New Jersey. Known for white sandy beaches along the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, one of the biggest industries in the state is tourism, although the northern area of the state has a large commercial and banking industry.

The capital of the state is Dover, located in Kent County, while Wilmington is the largest city, located in New Castle County. There are only three counties in the state, and Sussex County takes up almost half of the land in the entire state. For those moving to Delaware from metropolitan areas, the cost of living in the majority of the state is significantly lower as Delaware is mostly rural. The highest cost of living in the state is in New Castle County, and this is the area with the highest population. Kent and Sussex Counties, other than the beach areas found in Sussex County, are predominantly rural, keeping the cost of living lower.

Security Education and Scholarship Opportunities

The type of security position desired will determine the education necessary in Delaware. To become a correctional officer, you must be at least 19 and a half years old, have a high school diploma, and hold a valid driver’s license. A background investigation is necessary as well, and there is a written examination.

The Basic Officer Training Classes for becoming a correctional officer is a 12-week training course required for correctional officers, and potential job applicants must also take the Correctional Employee Initial Training, which is a 9-week course. There may be financial aid in the form of grants or scholarships available. Information on courses is available at the State of Delaware website.

Security Jobs and Career Outlook

According to the State of Delaware Occupational Employment Statistics Program Delaware Wages, employment distribution in protective services, which is what security positions in the state fall under, there were approximately 9,550 positions in the state.

Of these positions, 2,880 are security guards making, on average $34,060 per year. The highest-paid of these positions were private detectives and investigators, but there were only 40 positions in the state. The lowest-paid were recreational protective service workers, including lifeguards.

LocationTotal Security Guard EmploymentAverage Salary
All of United States1,057,100$35,830
Delaware2,880$34,060
BLS May 2021 employment of Security Guards by State

Unarmed and Armed Security Guard Requirements

Does Delaware require a security guard license? Visit the Delaware State Police website to find out more details.

Delaware State Police


Related: