The security industry in New Jersey and Delaware is currently facing a significant shortage of qualified guards, creating challenges for businesses that rely on professional protection for their properties, employees, and customers.
This shortfall is caused by a combination of factors, including increasing demand, competitive job markets, and evolving regulatory requirements. For companies needing reliable security staffing in these states, understanding how to navigate this shortage is essential. Here’s what you need to know.
Understanding the current security guard shortage
Both New Jersey and Delaware have reported difficulties in filling security positions across sectors like commercial real estate, retail, education, and healthcare.
The demand surge in residential and event security, combined with tight labor markets, means employers often face delays finding guards with proper certifications and experience. Compounded by escalating training and licensing requirements, this shortage can leave sites under-protected, increasing the risk of theft, vandalism, and safety incidents.
Prioritize recruiting and retention efforts
To counteract workforce scarcity, businesses must become more attractive employers within the security sector. This involves offering competitive wages, benefits, and flexible schedules to draw and keep guards. At EPS, for example, we actively recruit by emphasizing career growth opportunities, ongoing professional training, and workplace culture that values employee well-being.
Additionally, developing strong partnerships with local training academies and licensing bodies can create hiring pipelines that provide a steady flow of qualified candidates.
Invest in rigorous training and certification
Due to regulatory complexity in NJ and DE, it’s vital to thoroughly vet security personnel’s qualifications, such as licenses, background checks, and specialized training. Teams that receive regular updated instruction on emergency response, de-escalation, and customer service not only comply with laws but also perform their duties with greater confidence and effectiveness.
At EPS, we implement comprehensive training programs for all guards, ensuring clients receive knowledgeable and competent professionals despite overall market shortages.
Explore technological enhancements
Incorporating advanced security technologies can amplify limited manpower. Remote video monitoring, AI-driven analytics, automatic access controls, and alarm systems allow fewer guards to oversee larger areas more efficiently. These tools provide real-time alerts that enable quicker response to incidents, reducing potential vulnerabilities created by personnel shortages.
At EPS, we integrate the latest tech with human expertise to deliver cost-effective, scalable protection even during labor constraints.
Use flexible staffing models
Utilizing a mix of full-time, part-time, and on-call guards provides adaptability to meet fluctuating security demands without overextending limited personnel resources. Temporary or event-specific security staff can help fill short-term gaps and maintain high coverage during peak periods.
At EPS, we offer tailored security solutions with staffing models designed to adjust quickly to clients’ needs while maintaining continuity and reliability.
Collaborate closely with your security provider
Businesses should maintain transparent communication with security partners about staff availability challenges and anticipated needs. This enables proactive scheduling adjustments, resource allocation, and contingency planning. At EPS, we prioritize collaboration, providing regular updates and seeking client input to optimize security effectiveness.
Conclusion
The shortage of security guards in New Jersey and Delaware demands strategic approaches by businesses to maintain safety standards. Focusing on recruitment, training, technology, flexible staffing, and strong provider partnerships are key measures to navigate these challenges successfully.
But you don’t need to use a company located within your city. By working with seasoned security firm from nearby Philadelphia like EPS, companies gain access to expertise and resources designed to overcome workforce limitations without compromising protection.
For businesses in NJ or DE struggling to secure dependable security personnel, contacting EPS can provide valuable solutions tailored to specific environments and emerging conditions. Together, we can turn today’s shortage into tomorrow’s security success.
