A Meaningful Role in a Dynamic Environment
Working in campus security offers more than just a paycheck; it’s a chance to make a real difference in your community. Whether it’s a university, college, or private institution, campus security guards play a vital role in keeping students, staff, and visitors safe.
In Ontario, post-secondary campuses are vibrant, fast-paced environments that require a professional security presence 24/7. From monitoring residence halls and parking lots to supporting emergency responses, guards must balance authority with approachability.
If you’re a student, part-timer, or career-switcher looking for a rewarding role with flexible hours and long-term growth potential, here’s how to get started in the Ontario security industry, and why Paragon Security is a trusted choice for your career journey.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements
Before you can work as a security guard in Ontario, you must meet the Ministry of the Solicitor General’s licensing requirements.
To be eligible, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be legally eligible to work in Canada
- Have a clean criminal record
- Complete an approved security guard training course
- Pass the Ontario Security Guard Licence exam
Once licensed, guards are legally permitted to work in a variety of roles, including campus, retail, corporate, and event security.
Step 2: Complete the Mandatory Security Guard Training
Ontario requires all new security guards to complete a Ministry-approved 40-hour training program.
This training includes both in-class and online learning modules covering:
- The Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA)
- Emergency response and fire safety procedures
- Use of force theory and communication skills
- Report writing and note-taking
- Ethics, professionalism, and customer service
- First Aid and CPR certification
At Paragon Security, we help prospective guards access recognized training partners and provide mentorship and guidance on how to prepare for the licensing exam. Many of our current campus guards began their journey through our support programs or internal referrals.
Step 3: Apply for Your Ontario Security Guard Licence
After completing your training, you’ll need to apply for your official licence.
You can do this directly through ServiceOntario. You’ll need to submit:
- Proof of training completion
- Valid photo ID
- A passport-quality photo
- The application fee (currently $80)
Once approved, you’ll receive your licence number, which you must carry while on duty. Licences are valid for two years and must be renewed before expiry.
Step 4: Gain Real-World Experience
With your licence in hand, the next step is finding the right employer to help you build experience.
Campus security roles are ideal for:
- Students looking for flexible work schedules that align with class hours
- Part-time workers wanting consistent, meaningful employment
- Career-switchers interested in stable, service-oriented work
Paragon Security offers a wide range of campus placements across Ontario — from large universities to private colleges and research facilities. Our guards handle tasks such as:
- Monitoring entrances and visitor access
- Conducting foot patrols across campus grounds
- Supporting residence staff and student life teams
- Responding to emergencies and medical calls
- Providing safety escorts during late hours
This hands-on experience builds both confidence and professional credibility.
Step 5: Continue Building Skills and Advancing Your Career
Campus security is often the gateway to a lifelong career in protection services. Many of our guards go on to become site supervisors, mobile patrol officers, or operations coordinators within Paragon. We provide ongoing professional development, including:
- Advanced training certifications (fire warden, de-escalation, mental health awareness)
- Leadership programs for supervisory roles
- Technology training for CCTV and access control systems
- Partnerships with educational institutions for continuing studies
This continuous learning approach ensures every Paragon employee can advance, whether they choose to remain on campus sites or explore other security sectors like healthcare, retail, or corporate protection.
Why Students and Career-Changers Choose Paragon Security
Paragon Security is one of Ontario’s most trusted and established security employers, known for its employee-first culture, industry-leading training, and diverse opportunities across multiple sectors.
We understand the needs of part-time and student workers, offering flexible scheduling, reliable mentorship, and clear communication. Our commitment to professionalism and inclusivity has helped countless individuals begin and grow their careers in the security industry.
When you join Paragon, you’re not just getting a job; you’re joining a community that invests in your success.
Start Your Campus Security Career Today
If you’re ready to take the first step toward a rewarding security career, Paragon Security can help you get licensed, trained, and placed in the right role.
Are you ready?
If you are ready to jumpstart your career in security, check out our training classes and in-person or online training opportunities.
Join a booming industry! With ten years as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, a place in the Hall of Fame of Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures, being named Best Employer by Forbes Magazine for three years in a row, and winning the OSPA’s Outstanding Contract Security Company Award, Paragon is one of the fastest-growing companies across Canada, offering Ministry -approved Security Guard Training and Placement Assistance to help you get the best start possible in the Security Sector. Be sure to follow and read Our Blog to learn more about Paragon and the exciting world of security.
