Security Management Specialist

Your Fit

Income

$107K

Preparation

Considerable

Growth

4.1%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Security Management Specialist?

A Security Management Specialist is responsible for overseeing and coordinating an organization's security operations to protect against threats and ensure safety. This role involves developing security policies, managing security systems, and responding to security incidents.

Sample job titles:

Physical Security Engineer, Physical Security Specialist, Security Analyst, Security Consultant

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Security Management Specialist.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Security Management Specialist earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Security Management Specialist.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$62K per year	$79K per year	$107K per year	$130K per year	$170K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $42K above the national average.

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What does a Security Management Specialist do?

Work environment

Security Management Specialists often work in corporate offices, government agencies, or security firms. Their environment may vary, including fieldwork to assess security protocols at different locations. The role can involve crisis management situations, requiring readiness to respond to emergencies at any time.

Quick task list

Develops and implements security policies and procedures.
Manages security personnel and coordinates their activities.
Oversees the installation and maintenance of security systems and equipment.
Conducts risk assessments and security audits.
Responds to and investigates security incidents and breaches.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Corporate Security Management: Focusing on protecting a corporation's assets, employees, and information.
Cybersecurity Management: Specializing in the protection of information systems and digital assets.
Crisis Management and Response: Handling emergency situations and developing response strategies.
Physical Security Management: Concentrating on the physical safety of facilities and personnel.
Compliance and Risk Management: Ensuring compliance with security laws and regulations, and managing risk assessment.

Description

Security Management Specialists are integral to protecting an organization's assets, information, and personnel. They must be knowledgeable about various security technologies and practices, as well as legal and regulatory requirements related to security. This role requires a strategic mindset to develop and implement effective security plans and policies.

Effective communication skills are essential, as these specialists often collaborate with various departments and external agencies. They must be able to clearly explain security protocols and provide training to staff on security best practices.

Staying current with evolving security threats and technologies is critical in this field. Security Management Specialists must continuously update their knowledge and skills to effectively counter new security challenges and vulnerabilities, ensuring the ongoing safety and integrity of their organization.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Making a tangible impact on the safety and security of an organization and its employees.
The challenge of developing and implementing comprehensive security strategies.
Opportunities for continuous learning and staying abreast of the latest security technologies and threats.

You might make a good Security Management Specialist if you are...

Vigilant and proactive, with a keen eye for identifying potential security risks.
A strong leader and communicator, able to manage teams and coordinate with different departments.
Analytical and strategic, capable of developing effective security policies.
Tech-savvy, especially in regards to security systems and cybersecurity.
Calm under pressure, able to respond effectively to emergency situations.

Pros:

High responsibility and the opportunity to play a critical role in an organization's safety.
Diverse work environment, with opportunities to work in various industries.
Career growth potential, especially with increasing focus on security across sectors.

Cons:

High-pressure role, especially when dealing with security breaches or emergencies.
The need for constant vigilance and readiness to respond to threats.
Requirement to stay continuously updated with rapidly evolving security technologies and threats.

How to become a Security Management Specialist

Typical education

Typically, a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, security management, cybersecurity, or a related field is required, totaling around 4 years of post-secondary education. Additional certifications in security management or related areas can be beneficial.

High school preparation

Courses:

Computer science, particularly focusing on cybersecurity.
Criminal justice or law studies to understand legal aspects.
Psychology for understanding behavior related to security and risk.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining cybersecurity or computer clubs.
Participating in emergency response training or first aid courses.
Engaging in leadership roles in school clubs or teams.

Preparation after high school

Pursuing a bachelor's degree in security management, criminal justice, cybersecurity, or related fields.
Gaining experience through internships in security departments or law enforcement agencies.
Obtaining professional certifications like Certified Protection Professional (CPP) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

More resources

ASIS International - Offers resources and certifications for security professionals.
International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO) - Provides education and training for security officers and managers.
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) - Cybersecurity - Offers guidelines and resources on cybersecurity.
Security Management Magazine - A publication covering the latest trends and best practices in security management.
International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) - Specializes in security in healthcare settings.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.