Overview
Security guards and workers in related security service occupations guard and implement security measures to protect property against theft, vandalism and fire; to control access to establishments; to maintain order and enforce regulations at public events and within establishments; to perform screening of passengers, luggage or cargo; to conduct private investigations for clients or employers and to provide other protective services not elsewhere classified. They are employed by public or private security agencies, residential complexes, educational, cultural, financial and health institutions, retail establishments, investigation service companies, transportation facilities, and organizations throughout the private and public sectors, or they may be self-employed.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Private investigators
Conduct investigations to locate missing persons
Obtain information for use in civil and criminal litigation matters or for other purposes
May also conduct polygraph tests (integrity surveys) for clients.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$36,289
$43,798
$65,175
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
2,105expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school is usually required.
A college diploma in law and security or police technology may be required.
In Quebec, a permit issued by the Bureau de la sécurité privée (BSP) is required to work as a private detective or security officer.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certification to practice as Private investigators in B.C.
- Private Investigator Licence
Private Investigator Licence
To work as a private investigator in B.C., you need to have a private investigator licence. Eligibility is achieved by completing courses related to private investigation and sufficient work experience.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
No programs available in B.C.
There are currently no programs offered at public post-secondary institutions in B.C. that will qualify you for this career. Please see the B.C. Government website for other options.