Commissioned security guards have gone through the training to carry firearms. Non-commissioned officers might not carry a gun, but they still play a huge role in keeping public spaces and businesses safe.

But what exactly does an unarmed officer do?

In this article, you’ll learn: 

• What a non-commissioned officer is
• Training and certification
• Commissioned vs. non-commissioned officers
• Unarmed officers vs. personal protection officers
• When to choose unarmed guards
• Challenges non-commissioned officers face
• How Belfry can help

Let’s start by defining what a non-commissioned officer is.

‍

What is a non-commissioned security officer?

A non-commissioned security officer is an unarmed security professional responsible for protecting people, property, and assets. Essentially, they’re the unarmed security guards you see everywhere at malls and offices.

Their job is more about keeping an eye on things, reporting issues, and preventing problems before they happen. 

They’re a better fit for places where the risk is lower, like in:

• Retail stores, stopping shoplifters and helping customers when needed.
  ‍
• Offices buildings, keeping tabs on who’s coming and going, or managing access control.
  ‍
• Residential complexes, where their presence helps people feel safe.

Their typical duties include monitoring surveillance systems, patrolling assigned areas, controlling access to buildings or spaces, and assisting with crowd control. They also provide support to visitors or employees and report suspicious activity or incidents to the appropriate authorities.

If you want to become an unarmed security officer in Texas, there are a few requirements you need to meet:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be able to work legally in the US
• Pass a criminal background check and possess general physical fitness
• Be of good moral character

Once you meet all of these requirements, you’re ready for the next step — training and licensing.

‍

Training & certification requirements

For example, in Texas, the Department of Public Safety’s Private Security Bureau (DPS-PSB) oversees licensing for non-commissioned officers. To work as an unarmed officer, you need to complete the PSB’s Level II training course. 

Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll learn:

• Classroom instruction: The course starts with classroom training at a DPS-certified school. You’ll learn about legal guidelines, ethical conduct, emergency response protocols, and how to handle common challenges like unauthorized access or conflict situations.

• Situational awareness: Another key focus of the training is learning how to assess your surroundings and identify potential risks. 

• Communication skills: During the course, you’ll learn how to interact effectively with guests, employees, and law enforcement. Lessons emphasize clear, professional communication, de-escalation techniques, and how to document incidents accurately.

Once you complete your training course, you can apply to the PSB to get your non-commissioned officer license. But first, you have to pass a screening process:

• Background checks: These checks, which include fingerprinting, are there to make sure that applicants have no criminal history that would make them unfit for security work.

• Interviews: Some employers conduct interviews to assess your professionalism, problem-solving abilities, and attitude toward security work.

• Drug testing: Many organizations also require drug testing to make sure that candidates are capable of performing their duties safely and responsibly.

Ready to apply? You need to be employed (or in the process of getting hired) by a licensed security company before you send an application. A Texas private security company must sponsor your application — but don’t worry, they’re pretty experienced with that process.

‍

Commissioned vs. non-commissioned security officers

The difference between commissioned and non-commissioned security officers mostly comes down to whether or not they carry firearms, the kind of training they go through, and where they’re best suited to work.

Commissioned officers are the armed guys. They’re trained to handle riskier situations where there’s a chance of physical threats. You’ll usually see them in higher-risk areas, like:

• Corporate facilities, protecting sensitive info, high-value assets, and employees.
  ‍
• Banks or financial institutions, guarding cash, vaults, and high-risk areas.
  ‍
• Event venues, especially ones with big crowds or high-profile guests.
  ‍
• Luxury stores like jewelry stores which carry expensive merchandise.

For example, in Texas, these officers must complete Level III training, which includes firearms safety, how to use them properly, and when it’s legally okay to use force. On top of that, they need to pass a shooting test and stay up to date with certifications over time.

‍

Non-commissioned officers vs. personal protection officers (PPOs)

While non-commissioned officers handle general security work, PPOs focus on safeguarding specific individuals and managing higher-risk situations. You most likely know PPOs as bodyguards — people who step in to make sure that their clients are safe from harm.

But what exactly is the difference? Let’s take a look:

• Training: Many PPOs begin their careers as non-commissioned officers, where they develop essential skills in observation, communication, and situational awareness. Then, PPOs undergo more advanced training that focuses on defensive strategies, close protection techniques, and handling dynamic security challenges.

• Licensing and certifications: Both roles require basic Level II licensing. However, PPOs need to complete additional certifications, which may include specialized training tailored to individual protection, such as defensive tactics, threat assessment, and possibly defensive driving courses.

• Duties: Unarmed guards focus on general security responsibilities like patrolling, monitoring, and reporting incidents. PPOs are dedicated to personal protection and escort clients, providing safety during travel, events, or daily activities.

• Operational environments: Non-commissioned officers typically work in public spaces like retail stores, office buildings, or healthcare facilities. PPOs operate in more varied environments, including private homes, corporate gatherings, and even international travel settings.

• Armed roles: Both non-commissioned officers and PPOs can work unarmed, but PPOs are more likely to transition to armed roles if client needs or risks require it.

Getting trained as a security officer can vary by state. Read the full guide to learn the security license requirements in all 50 states. 

‍

Benefits of non-commissioned security officers

Non-commissioned security officers are a great option for a lot of businesses, especially if they want to maintain a more welcoming environment. Here are more of their benefits:

• Cost-friendly: Since they don’t carry firearms or go through extensive weapons training, they’re usually less expensive to hire and manage. For businesses with lower security risks, this can make a big difference in keeping costs under control.

• Customer-focused: They’re often trained in customer service and know how to handle public-facing jobs, whether that’s giving directions, answering questions, or de-escalating small issues without making anyone uncomfortable.

• Lower risk for the business: Because they’re unarmed, there’s less liability to worry about. They’re also ideal for locations where there are stricter controls on firearms.

‍

Why businesses prefer non-commissioned officers

Non-commissioned security officers are a great fit for places like retail stores, hotels, and healthcare facilities. These environments don’t always need an armed presence, it’s more about keeping things safe and creating a sense of trust. Here’s why unarmed guards work so well:

• Non-confrontational presence: Having unarmed officers around helps people feel secure without feeling intimidated. Customers and clients are more comfortable when security feels approachable and not overly aggressive.

• Helpful for shoppers: They’re great at preventing shoplifting by keeping a visible presence and stepping in when needed, but they don’t make shoppers feel like they’re being watched too closely. 

• Safety at hotels: Guests want to feel safe, but they also want a welcoming environment. Non-commissioned officers help with things like monitoring the lobby or responding to issues discreetly, all while maintaining that friendly, guest-focused vibe.

• Trust at healthcare facilities: In places like hospitals, these officers play an important role in keeping things calm. They can handle crowd control in busy areas and assist staff while making sure that patients and visitors feel at ease.

‍

Challenges & limitations of non-commissioned officers

Non-commissioned officers are great for a lot of situations, but they do have some limits:

• Limited response to serious threats: Since they’re unarmed, they’re not equipped to handle situations involving armed individuals. If something serious happens, their job is to stay safe and call for backup.

• Deterrence can be tough: Let’s face it, unarmed officers don’t have the same authoritative presence as someone who’s visibly armed. Criminals might not take them as seriously, especially in high-risk areas.

• Rely more on law enforcement: When it comes to handling criminal activities or dangerous situations, non-commissioned officers often have to call the police to step in. They can manage the scene and provide support, but they’re not there to directly engage in those kinds of incidents.

‍

How organizations address these challenges

Even though non-commissioned officers have some limitations, organizations have ways to work around these challenges and make their security teams as effective as possible. These methods include:

• The right tools: Giving officers the tools they need, like radios, surveillance systems, and access control technology, makes a big difference. These help them stay connected, monitor situations, and act quickly if something seems off.
  ‍
• Teamwork with armed officers: In some cases, businesses combine unarmed and armed guards. Non-commissioned officers focus on observation, customer interaction, and early detection, while armed officers are ready to step in if things escalate.
  ‍
• Training that matters: De-escalation and emergency response are key parts of training for unarmed guards. When officers know how to defuse situations calmly or respond effectively to emergencies, they’re better prepared to handle issues without needing physical force.

‍

When to choose non-commissioned over commissioned security

There are plenty of situations where non-commissioned officers are the better choice. Here are a few examples:

• Low-risk settings: If you’re running a retail store or a quiet office building in a place where there aren’t many high-risk threats, unarmed security is usually enough.

• Strict rules about firearms: Some locations, like certain businesses or public spaces, don’t allow firearms on-site, so non-commissioned officers make much more sense.

• Customer-focused roles: If your security team needs to interact with people a lot, unarmed officers are a great choice, since they can be a welcoming presence without feeling too unapproachable.

‍

How Belfry supports security teams

Security guards have a tough job. But with the right tools and technology, they can be much more effective — whether they’re a non-commissioned security officer, a commissioned officer, or a PPO. This is where security management platforms can help.

Belfry provides a comprehensive suite of tools designed to optimize the operations of security teams. 

Here’s how:

• Smooth workforce management: Belfry simplifies scheduling, payroll, and task assignment, allowing teams to manage their workforce with a reduced administrative burden.

• Compliance tracking: To help keep licenses and certifications up to date, the platform allows you to note each guard’s licenses, certifications, and training requirements, including when they expire.

• Training integration: Belfry supports the seamless integration of training programs, making it easy to assign, track, and assess officer preparedness across various roles.

• Enhanced communication: Features like instant messaging and centralized task updates help to improve collaboration and coordination among team members.

• Data-driven insights: Belfry’s integrated dashboards enable organizations to track performance metrics, incident reporting, and other data needed to make more informed strategic decisions.

Want to see how Belfry can help your team streamline operations? Schedule a Free Demo Today.