Hotel Security

Hotel security protects hotel guests, employees, and property. Hotel security typically works directly on the hotel property, patrolling the grounds, and in an office, monitoring security cameras or filling out paperwork. This is a full-time or part-time entry-level position that requires strategic thinking and a discerning eye. Hotel security may follow a chain of command, but they are sometimes only one among two or three guards who report directly to hotel management. If the situation calls for it, hotel security may also work with the local police department.

Hotel security works discretely and can think clearly under pressure to handle disturbances and identify threats quickly.

Hotel security is responsible for reporting all suspicious activity to their supervisors or hotel management. Usually, hotel security should report current events in real time through their radio and document events that have already been resolved.

Hotels that have conference centers or are near conference centers often hold concurrent conferences or conventions. During these times, the hotel experiences a high volume of guests. Hotel security is often expected to maintain order among the different groups of guests.

Hotel security must be on call anytime during their shift to investigate disturbances reported by hotel staff and guests. This can include things like excess noise coming from a guest’s room or reports of suspicious people prowling the parking lot.

The bulk of hotel security’s day is filled with patrolling hotel grounds, parking lots, lobbies, restaurants, and hallways. They provide a sense of security to both hotel staff and guests simply by being present. Depending on hotel resources and size, some hotel security may be assigned to a surveillance room, where they monitor the hotel via security cameras.

Hotel security is also responsible for escorting guests and hotel staff to and from the hotel. If valet parking is unavailable late at night, hotel security may escort guests and staff in order to protect them. Additionally, hotel security may need to escort belligerent guests off hotel property, especially in hotels that have bars.