Job type

Store detective

£17k - £26.5k

Typical salary

38 – 48

Hours per week

Store detectives work to prevent shoplifting as part of a team of security officers.

More info

  • Prevent shoplifting as part of a team of security officers
  • You'll need observational skills and the ability to handle sensitive situations
  • Progress to a senior post, like supervisor or security manager

DAY-TO-DAY DUTIES

  • Following shoppers or staff who behave suspiciously
  • Calling the police and describing what you've seen
  • Taking evidence from witnesses
  • Writing short reports
  • Giving evidence in court
  • Stopping anyone trying to leave the store with stolen goods

DAY-TO-DAY ENVIRONMENT

You could work evenings and weekends. You may work shifts, depending on the opening hours of the store. Temporary and seasonal work is often available.

You'll need

This role would be ideal for someone with good observational skills, the ability to handle sensitive situations, confidence to challenge people when necessary, the ability to use modern surveillance systems, like CCTV and electronic tags, and the ability to make quick decisions.

For this role you'll need to have a good level of fitness, pass an identity check, pass enhanced background checks and be 18 or over.

Employers will carry out checks on your personal and work history, which could go back up to 10 years.

You may need a security licence issued by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) for certain jobs. You can complete relevant SIA approved training if you need to get one.

You might also need a driving licence and access to a vehicle.

You could apply directly for jobs if you've got relevant experience in retail security, or from working in the police, armed forces or a security company.

Alternatively you can do an intermediate apprenticeship in providing security services.

CAREER PROSPECTS

With experience you could progress to a senior post, like supervisor or security manager. You could also become self-employed and work on contracts for stores.