Position Descriptions

    Free Position Description (Security Officer) Template

    Download our free Position Description (Security Officer) template. This DOCX and PDF resource helps you define roles, responsibilities, and key WHS duties.

    September 16, 20263 min read13 viewsLast reviewed September 2026Licensing terms (PDF)

    Free Position Description (Security Officer) Template

    DOCX • 137 KB + PDF

    Updated Oct 2026

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    Free Position Description (Security Officer) Template — document preview

    Purpose of the Free Position Description (Security Officer) Template

    A well-drafted position description is a foundational tool for effective workforce management and WHS compliance. Our Free Position Description (Security Officer) Template provides a structured starting point for defining the role, responsibilities, and authority of security personnel within your organisation.

    It clarifies expectations for both the employee and management, covering key duties, qualifications, and performance indicators.

    Using a clear position description helps to attract suitable candidates during recruitment, sets a benchmark for performance reviews, and aids in training needs analysis. From a WHS perspective, it formally assigns specific health and safety responsibilities, which is crucial for demonstrating due diligence and ensuring key safety tasks are not overlooked. Integrating these roles correctly is a core part of building robust WHS management systems.

    What is included in the template?

    This Position Description template includes sections for:

    • Position summary and objectives
    • Key responsibilities and duties (including specific WHS tasks)
    • Reporting relationships
    • Essential and desirable qualifications, skills, and experience
    • Key performance indicators (KPIs)
    • Physical requirements and work environment

    How to Use the Free Position Description (Security Officer) Template

    This template is available for download in both DOCX format for easy editing and PDF for straightforward printing and distribution. To use it, simply download the file and adapt the content to match the specific context of your workplace.

    Fill in the details relevant to the security role, including site-specific duties, company policies, and required licences or certifications.

    Please note: This is a template document. We strongly advise that you customise it to reflect the specific hazards, risks, procedures, and legal requirements of your organisation and the particular security role.

    Consultation with current security personnel and supervisors is highly recommended to ensure the document is practical and accurate.

    When to Use a Position Description

    A formal Position Description for a Security Officer should be used in several key situations. It is essential when recruiting new staff to provide candidates with a clear understanding of the role.

    It should also be used during the onboarding process for new hires to formalise their duties and responsibilities from day one.

    The document is also a valuable tool for conducting regular performance appraisals, providing a clear framework for discussing achievements and areas for development. Furthermore, it should be reviewed and updated following any significant change in duties, after a workplace incident, or as part of a periodic review of your safety procedures.

    These reviews can be a key input for a broader WHS compliance auditing program to ensure roles and practices remain aligned.

    Who Should Use This Resource

    This template is designed for use by anyone responsible for managing security staff in an Australian business. This includes:

    • Human Resources (HR) Managers
    • Recruitment Consultants
    • Security Managers or Supervisors
    • Operations Managers
    • Small Business Owners

    It is applicable across various industries that employ security officers, such as retail, corporate services, manufacturing, logistics, events, and healthcare. For roles involving night shifts, this PD should be supported by specific procedures and training, such as those covered in our Working at Night - Security and Safety Toolbox Talk Template.

    Defining roles is just one part of ensuring a safe workplace. If you require expert guidance on structuring your safety framework or defining complex roles, consider engaging professional WHS consulting services.

    You can also explore our complete free WHS resources library for other useful templates and guides.

    Common mistakes

    Common mistakes to avoid

    • Forgetting to include specific WHS duties, such as hazard reporting or participation in safety committees.
    • Using vague language (e.g., 'assist with safety') instead of clear, actionable responsibilities.
    • Failing to consult with current security staff to ensure the PD reflects the practical realities of the job.
    • Not reviewing and updating the position description after an incident or a change in operational procedures.

    Legal references

    Legal considerations

    The following legal requirements may be relevant to this type of work.

    • Work Health and Safety Act (Harmonised) — Provides the primary duties for protecting workers and other people from work health and safety risks.
    • Work Health and Safety Regulations (Harmonised) — Sets out requirements supporting the management of workplace hazards and risks.

    The following codes may be relevant to this type of work.

    • Managing WHS Risks Code of Practice — Provides practical guidance on identifying hazards, assessing risks and applying effective controls.
    • Work Health and Safety Consultation, Cooperation and Coordination Code of Practice — Provides practical guidance on consulting workers and coordinating with other duty holders.
    • Managing the Work Environment and Facilities Code of Practice — Provides practical guidance on safe work environments, workplace facilities and related controls.

    Did you know

    A High-Risk Profession

    According to Safe Work Australia, the security services industry faces a high rate of serious workers' compensation claims, with common injuries resulting from assaults, falls, and muscular stress.

    FAQ

    Frequently asked questions

    01What WHS responsibilities should be included in a Security Officer position description?
    Include duties like conducting risk assessments, reporting hazards and incidents, participating in emergency drills, using personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly, and promoting a positive safety culture among staff and visitors.
    02Does a Security Officer need a specific WHS qualification in Australia?
    While a formal WHS qualification isn't always mandatory, it is highly desirable. At a minimum, a PD should require evidence of training in first aid, emergency response, and hazard identification relevant to the specific work environment.
    03How does a position description help manage risks like workplace violence?
    A PD clarifies the officer's authority and responsibilities in managing conflict and aggression. It outlines the requirement to follow de-escalation procedures, report incidents of violence, and participate in related training, forming part of a systemic approach to risk management.
    04Can this template be used for both static guard and mobile patrol roles?
    Yes, but it requires significant customisation. For mobile patrols, you must add specific duties related to vehicle safety, journey management, and procedures for working alone, which differ from the responsibilities of a static guard.

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    How To Use It

    1. 1Download and open in Word or PDF.
    2. 2Replace the placeholders with your business details.
    3. 3Get it reviewed by a WHS specialist before rollout.
    Get a document review

    Need it customised?

    Our WHS consultants can adapt this template to your site, run a gap analysis, or audit what you already have in place.

    Book a Free Consultation WHS consulting services

    or call 1300 156 382

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