Security Jobs in Iowa differ by location and job duties, but there are many roles available with all levels of training and education.
About Iowa
Iowa is in the Midwestern region of the United States. Like other states in the Midwest, Iowa has a humid continental climate, meaning it experiences both extreme heat and extreme cold. Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are also common throughout the state.
The population of Iowa is over 3,070,000, according to the United States Census Bureau. That makes it the 30th most populous state out of the 50 states. The largest city in the state is Des Moines, which has a population of over 200,000. Des Moines is a major center for the insurance industry. Additionally, Forbes magazine ranked Des Moines as the top city in America for young professionals.
Security Education and Financial Aid in Iowa
There are a number of state-based scholarships and grants offered in Iowa:
- All Iowa Opportunity Scholarship – for students who do well in high school and demonstrate financial need. In order to qualify, students must be taking college classes within two academic years of high school graduation.
- Iowa Grant – for undergraduate students that attend Iowa colleges and universities. Priority is given to students whose parent was a public safety worker killed in the line of duty.
- Iowa Tuition Grant – for undergraduate students interested in attending an Iowa private college or university.
- Iowa Vocational-Technical Tuition Grant – for Iowa residents enrolled at community colleges in the state.
- Kibbie Grant (Iowa Skilled Workforce Shortage Tuition Grant) – for Iowa residents enrolled in specific programs at community colleges in the state.
More information on these and other Iowa scholarships and grants can be found at iowacollegeaid.gov.
Iowa Security Jobs and Career Outlook
Over 5,550 security guards work in Iowa. Additionally, the average annual salary is $36,090. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nationwide employment of security guards will grow 15 percent over the next decade.
| Location | Total Security Guard Employment | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| All of United States | 1,124,890 | $36,700 |
| Iowa | 5,760 | $36,090 |
Unarmed and Armed Security Guard Requirements in Iowa?
Below are the requirements for both unarmed and armed security guards in Iowa. It is important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the security company or employer you work for.
Unarmed Security Guard Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a criminal background check
- Complete an approved training course (at least 16 hours)
- Pass a written exam on security procedures and law
- Obtain a security guard license from the Iowa Department of Public Safety
Armed Security Guard Requirements
- Meet all the requirements for unarmed security guards
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have a valid Iowa weapons permit
- Complete an additional 8 hours of training on the use of firearms
- Pass a shooting proficiency test
- Obtain a security guard license with firearm endorsement from the Iowa Department of Public Safety
Additionally, some employers may have their own additional training and requirements for their security guards. It is always best to check with your employer and the Iowa Department of Public Safety for the most up-to-date and specific requirements.
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