Allied Universal is the largest security company in North America, they’re always hiring (hundreds of positions open at any time), pay starts at $15-20/hour (better than many retail/food service jobs), and you’re getting legitimate security/safety training that looks good on any resume. Plus, many positions involve just sitting and watching cameras or patrolling—way less customer service drama than retail.
Here’s what most people don’t realize about learning how to get hired at Allied Universal: the barrier to entry is extremely low (21+, clean background, that’s mostly it), training is comprehensive and paid (including guard card certification), there are hundreds of different site types (hospitals, offices, events, residential), flexible shifts exist (including overnight differentials), and career advancement is real—many supervisors and managers started as security officers.
I’ve helped thousands of people figure out how to get hired at Allied Universal, and I’m about to break down everything you need to know. The different positions (unarmed vs. armed, static vs. patrol), the pay structure (plus shift differentials for overnight), the background check process (what actually disqualifies you), training and certifications, and what it’s really like working an overnight desk shift where your biggest challenge is staying awake.
Whether you’re 21 and need steady income, 35 and want something less stressful than retail, or 55 and seeking reliable work with minimal drama, Allied Universal has positions. This complete guide on how to get hired at Allied Universal covers every step from applying to getting your first assignment.
Let’s get you hired. 🛡️
The Quick Facts About How to Get Hired at Allied Universal
Here’s what you need to know right now:
💰 Starting Pay: $15-$20/hour (varies by location and position)
📍 Locations: All 50 states, 200,000+ client sites
👥 Employees: 800,000+ security professionals worldwide
⏱️ Time to Get Hired: 2-4 weeks (background check dependent)
🎂 Minimum Age: 21 years old (18 for some unarmed positions)
💉 Drug Test: YES (pre-employment and random)
🔍 Background Check: YES (thorough, 7-10 year history)
🎓 Education Required: High school diploma or GED
🔫 Armed Positions: Additional requirements (firearm qualifications, permits)
📅 Schedule: All shifts available (overnight differential +$1-2/hour)
🎯 Hiring Volume: CONSTANT (always hundreds of openings)
💪 Physical Demands: Low to moderate (depends on position)
🚨 Training: Paid training, guard card certification provided
Now let’s break down why Allied Universal is worth considering and how to actually get hired.
Why Allied Universal is Better Than You’d Expect
Before diving into how to get hired at Allied Universal, let’s talk about why people choose security work.
1. The Pay is Competitive (Better Than Retail)
Allied Universal starting pay:
- Unarmed Security Officer: $15-18/hour
- Armed Security Officer: $18-25/hour
- Site Supervisor: $18-24/hour
- Overnight differential: +$1-2/hour
vs. typical retail/food service:
- Retail associate: $13-16/hour
- Fast food: $12-15/hour
- Restaurant server: $2-5 + tips (variable)
Allied Universal often pays better with more consistent hours.
2. Way Less Customer Service Drama
Security work vs. retail:
- Security: Mostly observing, documenting, patrolling
- Retail: Constant customer interaction, complaints, returns, upselling
Security work is often chill:
- Many positions involve sitting at desk monitoring cameras
- Checking IDs and signing people in
- Walking patrol routes
- Much less interpersonal stress than retail
Real talk: If you’re tired of dealing with difficult customers in retail, security can be a relief.
3. Overnight Shifts Pay More (And Can Be Easier)
Overnight security (10pm-6am or 11pm-7am):
- +$1-2/hour differential
- Typically slower, less activity
- Perfect for night owls
- Often less supervision
- Can study/read during downtime (site-dependent)
Overnight example:
- Base: $16/hour
- Overnight diff: +$2/hour
- Total: $18/hour
- Working while others sleep
Many people prefer nights for the pay bump and quieter environment.
4. Flexible Scheduling Options
Allied Universal offers:
- Full-time (40 hours/week)
- Part-time (20-30 hours/week)
- Per diem (fill-in shifts as needed)
- Fixed shifts or rotating
- Day, evening, overnight options
Work around:
- School schedules
- Second jobs
- Family commitments
Lots of positions available = lots of scheduling flexibility.
5. Legitimate Training and Certifications
Allied Universal provides:
- Guard card/security license (state-required)
- Company-specific training
- CPR/First Aid certification (many positions)
- Active shooter response training
- De-escalation techniques
- Site-specific protocols
This goes on your resume. Security training and certifications are valuable.
Many positions require 40-80 hours training (all paid).
6. Career Advancement is Real
Common path:
Security Officer → Shift Supervisor → Site Supervisor → Account Manager → Regional Manager
Timeline:
- Shift Supervisor: 6-12 months
- Site Supervisor: 1-2 years
- Account Manager: 3-5 years
Allied Universal promotes from within. Many managers started as security officers.
7. Variety of Work Environments
Allied Universal secures:
- Corporate offices
- Hospitals and medical facilities
- Residential communities
- Shopping malls
- Airports
- Museums
- Events and venues
- Industrial facilities
- Government buildings
You can work in environment that fits your preference.
8. Stable Employment with Huge Company
Allied Universal is:
- Largest security company in North America
- 800,000+ employees worldwide
- Contracts with Fortune 500 companies
- Steady, reliable work
Job security is solid. Security is always needed.
Understanding Allied Universal Positions
Before learning how to get hired at Allied Universal, understand the different roles.
Security Officer (Unarmed)** – $15-$18/hour
The main entry-level position. You’re providing security presence without firearm.
What you’ll do:
- Monitor entrances/exits
- Check IDs and sign guests in
- Patrol facility (foot or vehicle)
- Monitor security cameras (CCTV)
- Write incident reports
- Respond to emergencies
- Enforce site rules
- Deter theft and unauthorized access
Best for: Entry-level workers, those wanting less intense security work, people uncomfortable with firearms, career changers seeking stability.
Physical demands: LOW to MODERATE
- Sitting at desk monitoring (many positions)
- Walking patrol routes (some positions)
- Standing for periods
- Occasional running (emergency response)
Real talk: Many unarmed positions are “warm body” jobs—you’re there as presence and to observe/report. Hospital security can be more intense (dealing with psych patients, combative people). Corporate office security is usually very chill—checking badges, watching cameras, walking floors.
Minimum age: 18-21 (varies by state and site requirements)
Shifts: All shifts available—day, evening, overnight
Typical settings: Corporate offices, residential buildings, retail centers, hospitals, schools
Security Officer (Armed)** – $18-$25/hour
Higher-level security with firearm.
Additional requirements:
- 21+ years old
- Firearm permit/license (state-dependent)
- Pass firearms qualification
- Clean criminal record (more stringent)
- Psychological evaluation (sometimes)
What you’ll do:
- All unarmed duties
- Armed protection of high-value assets
- Cash/valuable transport sometimes
- Higher-risk environments
Starting pay: $18-25/hour (significantly higher than unarmed)
Best for: Those comfortable with firearms, military/law enforcement background, seeking higher pay, willing to meet additional requirements.
Training required: 40-80 hours including firearms training (all paid)
Mobile Patrol Officer** – $16-$20/hour
Driving between multiple sites, conducting patrols.
Requirements:
- Valid driver’s license (clean driving record essential)
- Reliable vehicle sometimes (company vehicle other times)
- 21+ usually
What you’ll do:
- Drive assigned patrol route
- Check multiple client sites
- Conduct security checks
- Respond to alarms
- Document observations
Pay: $16-20/hour + mileage reimbursement (if using personal vehicle)
Best for: People who like driving, independent workers, those who prefer variety over static posts.
Event Security Officer** – $16-$22/hour
Providing security at concerts, sporting events, conventions.
What you’ll do:
- Crowd control
- Check tickets
- Monitor for disturbances
- Prevent unauthorized access
- Assist guests
- Respond to incidents
Schedule: Variable (when events happen—evenings/weekends primarily)
Best for: People wanting part-time work, those who like events/concerts, social personalities.
Physical demands: MODERATE to HIGH (standing all shift, walking constantly, dealing with crowds)
Loss Prevention / Retail Security** – $15-$19/hour
Preventing theft in retail environments.
What you’ll do:
- Monitor for shoplifters
- Observe suspicious behavior
- Apprehend shoplifters (within legal boundaries)
- Work with law enforcement
- Write detailed reports
Best for: Observant people, those with retail background, patient watchers.
Can be confrontational. Dealing with angry shoplifters.
Hospital Security Officer** – $16-$20/hour
Providing security in healthcare facilities.
What you’ll do:
- Patrol hospital floors
- Respond to codes (code gray = combative patient, etc.)
- Assist with violent/psych patients
- Monitor emergency department
- Escort staff to parking
Physical demands: MODERATE to HIGH
Can be intense. Dealing with psych patients, violent individuals, emotional situations.
Requires: De-escalation skills, patience, ability to handle stress.
Shift Supervisor / Site Supervisor** – $18-$24/hour
Managing security officers at site.
Requirements: 1-2 years Allied Universal experience typically, or security management experience
What you’ll do:
- Supervise security officers
- Conduct site inspections
- Write schedules
- Train new officers
- Handle escalations
- Report to client/management
Career advancement position. Many started as security officers.
The Pay Structure at Allied Universal
Let’s get into money when learning how to get hired at Allied Universal.
Starting Pay by Position and Location (2025)
| Position | Low COL | Medium COL | High COL (CA, NY, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unarmed Officer | $15-16/hr | $16-18/hr | $18-22/hr |
| Armed Officer | $18-20/hr | $20-22/hr | $22-25/hr |
| Mobile Patrol | $16-18/hr | $18-20/hr | $20-24/hr |
| Shift Supervisor | $18-20/hr | $20-22/hr | $22-26/hr |
Shift Differentials
Extra pay for certain shifts:
- Evening shift (4pm-12am): +$0.50-1.00/hour
- Overnight shift (10pm-6am): +$1.00-2.00/hour
- Weekend differential: +$0.50-1.00/hour (some locations)
Example:
- Base pay: $16/hour
- Overnight differential: +$2/hour
- Weekend differential: +$1/hour
- Total: $19/hour for overnight weekend shift
Night owls can make significantly more.
How Raises Work
Annual performance reviews
Typical raises: $0.50-$1.00/year for solid performance
Longevity increases: Small bumps for tenure
Promotions: Significant pay jumps ($2-5/hour)
Overtime Opportunities
Overtime (over 40 hours/week):
- Time-and-a-half (1.5x pay)
- Often available (many sites need coverage)
Security is 24/7 operation. OT opportunities exist.
Example OT week:
- 50 hours worked
- 40 regular hours @ $17/hour = $680
- 10 OT hours @ $25.50/hour = $255
- Weekly total: $935
The Benefits Package
Understanding how to get hired at Allied Universal means knowing benefits.
Health Insurance (Full-Time)
Available for full-time (30+ hours/week):
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
Starts: After 30-60 days typically
Employee cost: $50-120/paycheck
Dependent coverage available
401(k) with Match
Company match: Small match (varies, typically 25-50% up to 3-4%)
Eligibility: After 90 days
Not the most generous but something.
Paid Time Off
Vacation/sick time:
- Accrues with hours worked
- Full-time gets more
- Starts accruing immediately
Typically: 5-10 days first year
Employee Assistance Program
Free counseling services
- Mental health support
- Financial counseling
- Legal assistance
Uniform Provided
Allied Universal provides:
- Uniform shirts
- Patches/badges
- Equipment (flashlight, radio, etc.)
You provide:
- Black pants
- Black shoes/boots
- Black belt
Training and Certifications
All training paid:
- Guard card/license
- CPR/First Aid
- Company training programs
Value: $200-500 in certifications provided free.
The Application Process
Alright, let’s get into the actual how to get hired at Allied Universal steps.
Step 1: Apply Online
Go to: Jobs.AUS.com or AlliedUniversal.com/careers
Search by:
- Location (city, state, ZIP)
- Position type
- Shift preference
Pro tip: Apply for multiple positions in your area. More applications = better odds.
Step 2: Complete the Application
You’ll need:
Personal Information:
- Name, contact, address
- Social Security Number
- Work authorization
Availability:
- What shifts can you work?
- Full-time or part-time?
- Day, evening, overnight?
BE FLEXIBLE. More availability = faster hire.
Work History:
- Previous employment (7-10 years)
- Be thorough and accurate
- Gaps in employment (explain if asked)
Security/military/law enforcement experience helpful but not required.
Education:
- High school diploma or GED required
Certifications:
- Guard card (if you have one)
- CPR/First Aid
- Security certifications
Don’t have certifications? Allied Universal provides training.
Criminal History:
- Be honest about any criminal record
- They WILL find it in background check
- Some offenses may not disqualify you
- Lying WILL disqualify you
Step 3: Online Assessment (Sometimes)
Allied Universal may require assessment:
- Scenario-based questions
- Judgment and decision-making
- Security-related situations
Takes: 20-30 minutes
Be honest and use common sense.
Step 4: Phone Interview (Screening)
If application looks good:
- 15-20 minute phone call
- Recruiter or hiring manager
- Basic screening questions
Questions:
- Why security?
- What’s your availability?
- Any security experience?
- Can you pass background check and drug test?
- When can you start?
Be professional, clear, and enthusiastic.
Step 5: In-Person Interview
The main interview:
- 30-45 minutes
- At Allied Universal office or client site
- With hiring manager or site supervisor
- Professional but straightforward
Questions focus on:
- Reliability
- Handling situations
- Customer service
- Following procedures
- Availability
Dress code: Business casual or business professional. Look sharp.
Step 6: Background Check & Drug Test
The lengthy part:
Background check:
- Criminal history (7-10 years)
- Employment verification
- Education verification
- Driving record (if applicable)
- Credit check (sometimes)
Timeline: 7-14 days typically
Drug test:
- Urine test
- Full panel (marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, PCP, etc.)
- Must pass to be hired
If you pass both: Job offer extended.
Step 7: Training & Orientation
Once hired:
Orientation:
- 8-40 hours depending on position
- Company policies and procedures
- Security fundamentals
- Legal aspects
- Report writing
Guard card training:
- State-required security license
- Powers of arrest
- Legal authority
- Use of force
- Allied Universal pays for this
Site-specific training:
- Client requirements
- Facility layout
- Procedures
- Equipment use
All training is paid at your hourly rate.
Interview Questions & How to Answer
“Why do you want to work in security?”
❌ Bad: “I just need a job” or “I couldn’t find anything else”
✅ Good: “I’m interested in security because I like the idea of protecting people and property, and I appreciate that the work is more structured and professional than typical entry-level jobs. I like that Allied Universal provides comprehensive training and there are opportunities to advance. Security work offers stability and the ability to make a difference in keeping people safe.”
“What would you do if you saw someone stealing from the facility?”
✅ Correct answer: “I’d observe and document what I’m seeing without putting myself at risk, call it in immediately to my supervisor and/or local law enforcement per company policy, and continue monitoring until proper authorities arrived. I wouldn’t physically confront them unless it was an immediate safety threat and I was trained and authorized to do so. My priority is observation and reporting, not enforcement—that’s for law enforcement.”
Why this works: Shows understanding of security officer role (observe and report, not police), prioritizes safety, follows procedures.
“How would you handle a difficult or aggressive person?”
✅ Strong answer: “I’d stay calm and professional, use de-escalation techniques like maintaining calm tone and body language, give them space, listen to their concerns, and try to resolve the situation verbally. If they became physically aggressive or posed a threat, I’d call for backup immediately and law enforcement if needed, while maintaining my safety and the safety of others. I wouldn’t escalate the situation or engage physically unless absolutely necessary for safety.”
“Describe a time you had to stay alert during a boring or repetitive task.”
✅ Relevant example: “At my previous job, I had tasks that required sustained attention to detail for hours at a time. I stayed focused by taking mental notes of what I was observing, varying my routine when possible, and reminding myself that maintaining vigilance was part of my responsibility. I understand security can involve long periods of quiet observation, and I’m mentally prepared for that.”
“What’s your availability?”
✅ Best answer: “I’m very flexible with my availability. I can work full-time, any shift—day, evening, or overnight—and any days of the week including weekends and holidays. I understand security is a 24/7 operation and I’m ready to work when needed.”
More availability = faster placement.
“Can you pass a background check and drug test?”
✅ If yes: “Yes, I can pass both without any issues.”
✅ If you have something in background: “I can pass the drug test. Regarding the background check, I do have [describe briefly and honestly] from [when]. I want to be upfront about that.”
Honesty is critical. They’ll find out anyway.
“Why should we hire you?”
✅ Strong close: “You should hire me because I’m reliable, available for the shifts you need filled, I take responsibility seriously, and I’m looking for stable long-term employment. I understand security work requires vigilance, professionalism, and following procedures, and I’m ready for that. I’m a quick learner, I’ll represent Allied Universal professionally, and I’m committed to keeping people and property safe.”
Questions YOU Should Ask
✅ Important questions:
- “What site would I be assigned to initially?”
- “What does a typical shift look like at that site?”
- “What training will be provided?”
- “What opportunities are there for advancement?”
- “How does scheduling work?”
- “What’s the next step in the hiring process?”
What Allied Universal is Looking For
Understanding how to get hired at Allied Universal means knowing their priorities.
Key Qualities
Reliable and responsible:
- Show up on time every shift
- Dependable
- Trustworthy
Observant and alert:
- Pay attention to surroundings
- Notice unusual activity
- Stay focused
Professional demeanor:
- Calm under pressure
- Respectful to everyone
- Represents company well
Follows procedures:
- Adheres to post orders
- Documents properly
- Respects chain of command
Good judgment:
- Makes sound decisions
- Knows when to call for backup
- Prioritizes safety
Clean background:
- Passes background check
- Passes drug test
- Honest about history
Background Check & Drug Testing (Critical)
Both are thorough and non-negotiable.
Background Check
Allied Universal runs comprehensive checks:
What they check:
- Criminal history (7-10 years, sometimes more)
- Employment history
- Education verification
- Driving record (for mobile patrol)
- Credit check (for some positions)
- Sex offender registry
What typically disqualifies:
- Felony convictions (especially violent crimes, theft, fraud, sexual offenses)
- Recent misdemeanors (assault, DUI, domestic violence)
- Theft-related offenses (major concern for security)
- Lying on application (automatic disqualification)
- Poor driving record with DUIs (for mobile patrol)
What might not disqualify:
- Minor misdemeanors 5+ years ago
- Single DUI 7+ years ago
- Non-violent offenses with time passed
- Traffic violations
Each case reviewed individually. Some offenses negotiable depending on circumstances and time passed.
Be honest on application. Lying is worse than the offense itself.
Timeline: 7-14 days
Drug Testing
Yes, Allied Universal drug tests.
When:
- Pre-employment (after conditional offer)
- Random during employment
- Post-accident
- Reasonable suspicion
Type: Urine test (full panel)
Tests for:
- Marijuana (THC)
- Cocaine
- Opiates
- Amphetamines/Methamphetamines
- PCP
- Sometimes others
If you fail: Not hired. Cannot reapply for 1 year typically.
Prescription medications: Bring documentation. Notify them before test.
Timeline: Results in 2-5 business days
Your First Day & Training
Orientation
Length: 8-16 hours typically (1-2 days)
What you’ll do:
- Paperwork (I-9, W-4, direct deposit, benefits)
- Company overview and policies
- Watch training videos
- Basic security principles
- Legal authority and limitations
- Report writing
- Radio procedures
What to bring:
- Government ID
- Social Security card or birth certificate + ID
- Bank account info
- Void check or direct deposit form
- Pen and notebook
Guard Card / Security License Training
State-required (varies by state):
- 8-40 hours depending on state requirements
- Legal powers and limitations
- Powers of arrest
- Use of force
- Report writing
- Emergency procedures
Allied Universal pays for this (usually $100-300 value).
You receive guard card/license to work legally as security officer.
Site-Specific Training
Before starting at assigned site:
- Client expectations and requirements
- Facility tour and layout
- Post orders (your specific duties)
- Emergency procedures
- Equipment training (radios, cameras, access control)
Length: 8-24 hours
Your Uniform
Allied Universal provides:
- Uniform shirts (2-3 typically)
- Patches/badges
- Name tag
- Equipment (flashlight, radio, sometimes more)
You provide:
- Black tactical pants or dress pants
- Black shoes or boots (comfortable, professional)
- Black belt
- Black socks
Dress code is specific. Follow it exactly.
First Paycheck
Pay schedule: Bi-weekly (every 2 weeks) typically
Payday: Friday usually
Method: Direct deposit
First check: 2-3 weeks after starting (first pay period + processing)
What It’s Actually Like Working Allied Universal Security
Real talk about the day-to-day.
Your Schedule
Shifts vary by site:
- Day shift: 6am-2pm, 7am-3pm, 8am-4pm
- Evening: 2pm-10pm, 3pm-11pm, 4pm-12am
- Overnight: 10pm-6am, 11pm-7am, 12am-8am
- 12-hour shifts: 6am-6pm or 6pm-6am (some sites)
Hours:
- Full-time: 40 hours/week (sometimes more with OT)
- Part-time: 20-30 hours/week
- Per diem: Variable, fill-in shifts
The Pace (Depends Heavily on Site)
Corporate office (typical):
- Very slow, mostly sitting
- Check badges, sign guests in
- Monitor cameras
- Walk building periodically
- Write reports
- Downtime for reading/studying (site-dependent)
Hospital security:
- Busy, lots of activity
- Responding to codes constantly
- Dealing with psych patients
- Escorting staff
- Managing visitors
- Can be intense
Retail/mall security:
- Moderate activity
- Patrolling, observing shoppers
- Dealing with shoplifters
- Responding to incidents
- Working with store staff
Event security:
- High activity
- Crowds, noise, constant movement
- Standing entire shift
- Checking tickets, managing crowds
- Physically demanding
The Physical Reality
Depends on position:
Static post (desk):
- Sitting most of shift
- Minimal physical demands
- Long hours of sitting (need good posture)
Patrol post:
- Walking 5-10 miles per shift
- Standing for periods
- Climbing stairs
- Moderate to high activity
Event security:
- Standing entire shift
- Constant walking
- Dealing with crowds
- Very high physical demands
The Money (Real Examples)
Unarmed officer, corporate office (medium COL):
- $17/hour
- 40 hours/week
- Weekly: $680
- Monthly: $2,720
Armed officer, overnight shift (high COL):
- $20/hour base
- +$2/hour overnight differential
- $22/hour total
- 40 hours/week
- Weekly: $880
- Monthly: $3,520
Officer with overtime:
- $17/hour base
- 50 hours/week (10 hours OT)
- 40 regular hours: $680
- 10 OT hours @ $25.50: $255
- Weekly: $935
- Monthly: $3,740
The Culture
The good:
✅ Better pay than retail ($15-20/hr vs $13-16)
✅ Less customer service drama (observation vs interaction)
✅ Overnight differential (+$1-2/hr)
✅ Flexible scheduling (many shift options)
✅ Career advancement (supervisor roles achievable)
✅ Paid training (guard card, certifications)
✅ Stable employment (largest security company)
✅ Variety of sites (find environment you like)
The challenges:
❌ Can be boring (especially static posts)
❌ Overnight shifts (hard on sleep schedule)
❌ Some sites dangerous (hospitals, retail)
❌ Strict background check (many disqualified)
❌ Drug testing (random tests ongoing)
❌ Report writing (documentation required)
❌ On your feet (some positions)
❌ Dealing with difficult people (varies by site)
Insider Tips for Getting Hired
1. Be honest about criminal history
They’ll find it anyway. Honesty is your only option.
2. Emphasize availability
“I can work any shift, any day” = faster placement.
3. Highlight military/LE/security experience
This experience is highly valued. Mention it prominently.
4. Apply for multiple positions
More applications = more opportunities.
5. Be ready for drug test
If you can’t pass, don’t waste everyone’s time.
6. Professional appearance at interview
Security is professional field. Dress accordingly.
7. Follow up after interview
Call/email after 3-5 days to check status.
8. Be patient with background check
Can take 2+ weeks. Don’t panic.
9. Express interest in career growth
“I want to advance to supervisor” shows ambition.
10. Ask about specific sites
“What types of sites are hiring?” shows genuine interest.
FAQs About How to Get Hired at Allied Universal
Q: How much does Allied Universal really pay?
A: $15-20/hour starting for most positions. Armed and overnight positions pay more.
Q: Do they really hire people with criminal records?
A: Depends on the offense, how long ago, and circumstances. Minor old offenses might be okay. Serious recent crimes disqualify.
Q: Is the drug test hard to pass?
A: If you’re not using drugs, no. Full panel urine test. No way around it.
Q: What’s the minimum age?
A: 18 for some unarmed positions, 21 for most positions and all armed positions.
Q: Do you need security experience?
A: No. They train from scratch.
Q: Is it boring?
A: Can be, especially static posts at corporate offices. Depends heavily on site.
Q: Can you really study/read during shifts?
A: Site-dependent. Some sites allow it during downtime, others don’t. Ask during interview.
Q: How long does hiring take?
A: 2-4 weeks typically due to background check process.
Q: Is it dangerous?
A: Depends on site. Corporate offices are very safe. Hospitals and retail can have incidents.
Q: Can you advance?
A: Yes, to shift supervisor, site supervisor, account manager. Many managers started as officers.
Q: Do you carry weapons?
A: Only if armed position. Most positions are unarmed.
Q: What disqualifies you?
A: Felonies, recent serious misdemeanors, failing drug test, lying on application, terrible driving record.
Allied Universal vs. Other Security Companies
| Factor | Allied Universal | G4S | Securitas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | Largest ✅ | Large | Large |
| Starting Pay | $15-20/hr | $14-18/hr | $14-19/hr |
| Training | Comprehensive ✅ | Good | Good |
| Sites | Most variety ✅ | Many | Many |
| Advancement | Good ✅ | Medium | Medium |
| Hiring Volume | Constant ✅ | Regular | Regular |
Allied Universal advantages:
- Largest = most positions
- Most site variety
- Solid training
- Clear advancement path
- Better pay than most competitors
Alright, Let’s Get You Hired at Allied Universal
So there you have it—everything about how to get hired at Allied Universal.
Is it exciting? Not always (can be boring).
Is it physically demanding? Depends on position.
Is it stable work with decent pay? Absolutely yes.
If you can pass a background check and drug test, want work with less customer service drama than retail, and need flexible scheduling, Allied Universal is worth applying to.
Your Action Plan (Do This Today):
- ✅ Go to Jobs.AUS.com
- ✅ Search positions in your area
- ✅ Apply for multiple openings
- ✅ Be completely honest on application
- ✅ Emphasize full availability
- ✅ Prepare for thorough background check
- ✅ Be ready to pass drug test
- ✅ Dress professionally for interview
- ✅ Show interest in career growth
- ✅ Be patient through 2-4 week process!
Allied Universal is always hiring. Security never stops. Now that you know how to get hired at Allied Universal, you’re ready to apply.
Go get that guard card. 🛡️
