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Store detective

Alternative titles for this job include

Store detectives prevent shoplifting in retail outlets and shopping centres.

Average salary (a year)

£17,000 Starter

to

£26,500 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

46 to 48 a week

You could work

evenings / weekends / bank holidays on shifts

How to become

Explore the different ways to get into this role.

How to become a store detective

You can get into this job through:

  • an apprenticeship
  • applying directly

Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships relevant to this role include:

  • Level 3 Security first line manager

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

More Information

Direct Application

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.

More Information

Further information

You'll find more details about security training and licensing through the Security Industry Authority.

What it takes

Find out what skills you’ll use in this role.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • knowledge of public safety and security
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • the ability to work well with others
  • the ability to use your initiative
  • knowledge of English language
  • customer service skills
  • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

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.

What you’ll do

Discover the day to day tasks you’ll do in this role.

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

You could:

  • follow shoppers or staff who behave suspiciously
  • call the police to describe what you've seen
  • take evidence from witnesses
  • write short reports
  • give evidence in court
  • prevent anyone trying to leave the store with stolen goods

Working environment

You could work at a store or in a court.

Your working environment may be crowded.

Career path and progression

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.

Career path and progression

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.

Current opportunities

Find apprenticeships, courses and jobs available near you.

Current opportunities

Courses In England

Principles of Providing Security Services

  • Provider: GLOUCESTERSHIRE COLLEGE
  • Start date: 17 January 2022
  • Location: Gloucester

Level 3 Preparation for the Security Industry

  • Provider: DCG
  • Start date: 07 February 2023
  • Location: Ilkeston
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