Security Officer Career Paths
Built for progression. Earned by performance.
QBA considers both licensed and unlicensed candidates. Strong candidates can enter the organization, develop through QBA training and licensing pathways, and advance as they prove capability.
Guard IUnarmed Security Officer
Step 1 — Developing Officer
$17/hour baseEntry-level position for new or developing officers. Focused on mastering post duties, reporting, reliability, and QBA standards.
Step 2 — Proven Officer
$19/hour baseEarned after sustained strong performance, completion of required training, and demonstrated reliability.
Step 3 — Senior / Promotion-Ready Officer
$22/hour baseReserved for exceptional officers who consistently exceed standards and demonstrate readiness for armed service or future leadership opportunities.
Guard IIArmed Security Officer
Step 1 — Armed Officer
$23/hour baseQualified armed officer who meets QBA licensing, weapons-proficiency, and performance standards.
Step 2 — Advanced Armed Officer
$26/hour baseEarned through sustained strong performance, completion of advancement requirements, and demonstrated professional development.
Step 3 — Senior / Promotion-Ready Armed Officer
$29/hour baseQBA’s highest non-supervisory armed-officer tier, reserved for exceptional performers demonstrating readiness for supervision and leadership.
Published rates are base pay. Shift, assignment, location, and qualification differentials may apply without changing an officer’s underlying classification or earned step.