What can I expect when trying to transition to private security and not being fomer Special Forces?

It almost seems as if everyone is out for themselves. Not to much team work. I got lucky and got into a company that has mostly prior military, so we work together as a team. Good luck!

PFC Juyius Jackson - There are thousands of private security companies. Each has its own hiring criteria and they run the gamut from simply having a drivers license all the way to several years of prior service in the military, to include certification/assignment to special operations units. It all depends on what you are trying to do.

It sounds like you are looking for a position in a government contractor that provides support to the US Department of State (embassy security/personal security details, etc.) or Department of Defense (support to military installations/operations). Personnel qualifications depend on the contracts the firms have with the Government. Having been involved in this business for several years, most of those type positions do not require "Special Forces", however, they do require military service and the more training and certifications you have, the better chance you have at getting hired.

Most companies get many more applicants than they have slots for and have to come up with a methodology to pick the best qualified applicants (especially if they are Government contractors and subject to official review of their hiring practices). We came up with a very detailed matrix with which to select the best qualified. For example, we assigned points to every conceivable factor: branch of service; military occupational specialty; rank/leadership experience; special training; weapons qualifications; awards; etc., etc. That resulted, for example, in an Army Ranger being selected over an Air Force Personnel Specialist, a Marine Infantryman, an Army truck driver, or a Navy Boatswain mate.

The longer you stay in and the more training you get, the more apt you are to be able to successfully compete for that type security position.

Having said that, there are a great many other opportunities with private security firms where your basic military service will put you ahead of most applicants. Typically, reputable security companies seek out former military and former police as more desirable candidates for employment.

PFC Juyius Jackson - I keep reading over your question trying to formula a good response but I'm left a little confused. What does being or not being part of SF (which I'm assuming means Special Forces) has to do with your rate of success throughout your transition?

Please provide more thought to aid in the discussion.