Security in Michigan


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

About Michigan

Michigan is made up of two peninsulas known as the Upper Peninsula and Lower Peninsula. Four of the Great Lakes border Michigan contributing to the nickname of the Great Lake State. The Mackinaw Bridge spans the Straits of Mackinac connecting the two peninsulas for vehicle traffic. The Blue Water Bridge spans the St. Clair River connecting Port Huron to Sarnia, Canada. The International Bridge crosses the St. Mary’s River connecting Sault. Ste. Marie, Michigan to the Ontario, Canada city of the same name, Sault. Ste. Marie. Two major international connections from Detroit to Windsor, Canada are the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, which runs under the Detroit River and spanning the same river; the Ambassador Bridge. The Ambassador Bridge is the #1 international border crossing in North America.

Although still the headquarters for the “Big Three” automakers, GM, Ford, and Chrysler, Michigan lost jobs in the automotive manufacturing sector on top of losing 0.6% of its population in the U.S. 2010 Census. The economy; however, has begun to stabilize and diversify.

Security Education, Scholarships, and Financial Aid

Entry-level security guard or transportation security screener positions may not require more than a high school diploma, GED or equivalent. If seeking an armed position the requirements may increase to include post-secondary education. For anyone choosing to advance their career, a bachelor’s or master’s degree is an almost sure requirement.

In addition to federal and state loan and scholarship programs, the Department of Homeland Security offers 10-week internships and The American Criminal Justice Association (ACJA) funds annual scholarships for students pursuing criminal justice degrees.

Security Jobs and Career Outlook

Security at Michigan’s four international connections has increased since 9/11. Approval to build a second bridge linking Detroit to Windsor was awarded in 2012, thus increasing the opportunities for security jobs in Michigan.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2021 report stated security guard positions are expected to increase by 15 percent by 2030. In the Transportation Security Screeners division of the BLS report, Michigan is listed with 1,110 currently employed. Under the Security Guards division, a total of 21,290 are employed.

LocationTotal Security Guard EmploymentAverage Salary
All of United States1,057,100$35,830
Michigan42,860$33,900
BLS May 2021 employment of Security Guards by State

Unarmed and Armed Security Guard Requirements


Do you need a license to be a security guard in Michigan? There is not a state Security Guard license in Michigan.


Related: