Security Jobs in South Dakota differ by location and job duties, but there are many roles available with all levels of training and education.
About South Dakota
South Dakota is a state steeped in the history of the American West. From the gold rush in the Black Hills to Custer’s Last Stand, South Dakota is a representative microcosm of American settlement. Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote three books about pioneer life on the plains and the hardiness of the people who settled the Dakota Territories. Harvey Dunn’s paintings illustrate the rigors and pleasures of settling in South Dakota. Home to not only historic rough and tumble Deadwood, but the state also has one of the largest cities in the upper Midwest plains states, Sioux Falls.
A huge tourist draw that requires additional security happens each year in August. Thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts make the trek from all corners of the country to transform Sturgis from a small western town into a mecca of motorcycle fun. Today, Mt. Rushmore continues to look out across South Dakota as a beacon to remind people of what it took to make America the strongest nation in the world.
Education and Scholarship Information
Higher education is necessary to advance in a security career, particularly in law enforcement. Security guards and transportation screeners need a high school diploma or a GED for an entry-level position. Local police jurisdictions may accept high school level for entry but larger municipalities and state agencies likely require post-secondary education.
Scholarships to help with post-secondary education include the list below.
- Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation Scholarships
- Alert Scholarship – ALERT – The drug and alcohol abuse prevention magazine by Golden West Publications
- Mary Chilton Chapter: National Society Daughters of the American Revolution
- Dakota Indian Foundation Scholarship
- CenturyLinkQuote.com Internet Safety Laws Scholarship
- Homeland Security Scholarship
South Dakota Security Employment and Jobs Outlook
Forbes lists South Dakota as the 12th top state for businesses. Where businesses flourish so do jobs. Jobs bring people and with people a need for added security is present. According to the U.S. Census, South Dakota’s population has increased by 7.9% since the year 2000.
Nationally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects a 15 percent growth in Security Guard and Transportation Security Screener positions for the decade between 2020 and 2030. Presently, South Dakota employs 1,320 Security Guards. Furthermore, they earn an average annual salary of $33,660.
| Location | Total Security Guard Employment | Average Security Guard Salary |
|---|---|---|
| All of United States | 1,057,100 | $35,830 |
| South Dakota | 1,310 | $33,660 |
Unarmed and Armed Security Guard Requirements
How do I get a South Dakota security license? Unarmed security guards in South Dakota are not required to have a license. There are some rules that apply to the companies that employ the guards.
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