Last updated: 10 October 2026
Security jobs are one of the largest sources of employment in South Africa. Private security companies, shopping centres, estates, mines, hospitals, parastatals and government departments all hire security officers, control room operators and supervisors. The good news is that many security jobs are open to people with Grade 10 or Matric, as long as you are properly trained and registered.
This guide explains the types of security jobs, the requirements (including PSIRA registration), where to find genuine vacancies in Gauteng, Durban, Cape Town and other areas, and how to apply.
Types of Security Jobs
| Role | Typical Requirements |
|---|---|
| Security guard / officer | PSIRA Grade E–C |
| Access control officer | PSIRA Grade D or C |
| Patrol officer | PSIRA grade plus driver’s licence |
| Armed response officer | PSIRA Grade C, firearm competency, driver’s licence |
| Control room operator | PSIRA Grade C, computer literacy |
| Retail security / loss prevention | PSIRA grade, retail experience an advantage |
| Security supervisor / manager | PSIRA Grade B or A, experience |
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Security Job Requirements
- Valid PSIRA registration at the grade required by the employer. Read our full guide to PSIRA jobs and registration.
- South African ID
- Grade 10 or Matric, depending on the employer
- Clear criminal record
- Firearm competency certificate for armed posts
- Driver’s licence for patrol and armed response posts
- Physical fitness and willingness to work night shifts, weekends and public holidays
Where to Find Security Jobs
- Private security companies: Large companies post vacancies on their own careers pages and at branch offices.
- Job boards: Search “security officer” with your area on trusted job boards.
- Retailers and estates: Some retailers hire loss prevention staff directly.
- Government and parastatals: Correctional Services, PRASA and Eskom advertise security and protection services posts.
- Police careers: If you want to move into law enforcement, see our guide to SAPS vacancies.
Security Jobs by Area
The biggest demand is in Gauteng (Johannesburg, Pretoria, Centurion, Midrand and the East Rand), followed by KwaZulu-Natal (Durban and Pietermaritzburg) and the Western Cape (Cape Town). When searching, add your town to the job title, for example “security jobs Durban” or “security officer Pretoria”.
How to Apply for Security Jobs
- Get PSIRA registered through an accredited training provider and keep your certificate valid.
- Prepare a security CV with your PSIRA number and grade at the top, plus your training, sites you have worked at and references.
- Keep certified copies of your ID, PSIRA certificate, firearm competency and driver’s licence.
- Apply online or at branch offices of reputable security companies.
- Upgrade your grade over time to qualify for better-paying posts.
Security Salaries
Security officers in South Africa must be paid at least the legal minimum for the private security sector, which depends on your grade and the area you work in. Higher grades, armed posts, night shifts and supervisory roles pay more. You can check minimum hourly rates using the Wages Per Hour Simulator on the PSIRA website.
Avoid Security Job Scams
- Never pay for a security job, uniform or “placement”.
- Do not buy a PSIRA certificate or grade upgrade without completing training; fake certificates can get you blacklisted.
- Be careful of “training plus guaranteed job” offers from providers that are not PSIRA-accredited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need PSIRA to work as a security guard?
Yes. Security officers must be registered with PSIRA, and employers are not allowed to hire unregistered guards.
Can I get a security job without Matric?
Yes, many security companies accept Grade 10, provided you have valid PSIRA registration.
Which PSIRA grade gets the most jobs?
Grade C is the most requested grade in security job adverts.
Where are the most security jobs?
Gauteng has the most security vacancies, followed by KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.
Conclusion
Security work is one of the most accessible ways to find steady employment in South Africa. Get PSIRA registered, keep your documents valid, upgrade your grade and apply only through trusted employers. Bookmark this page for new security job opportunities.
