Officer Training

At Merchant Patrol Security, training begins with proper recruitment and selection. To become a MPS officer, applicants must meet state and local requirements and have the following minimum qualifications:

  • Be at least 21 years of age
  • Be a U.S. citizen or be able to provide documentation permitting residency and authorization to work
  • Have a neat, well-groomed appearance
  • Have completed high school or its equivalent
  • Have a valid Washington State driver’s license, transportation and telephone
  • Have or applied for all registrations or licenses required by local and state jurisdiction
  • Be able to read and comprehend directives and instructions in English as issued by the company or client management. (Bi-lingual officers available upon request). They must also be able to complete forms and reports as required in the normal performance of duty.
  • Be physically and mentally able to perform the functions of a security officer

Before we assign newly hired personnel to a client’s site, MPS completes a thorough background screening. This includes reviewing and verifying his/her military records, driver’s licenses, employment histories, etc., taking fingerprints for the Department of Licensing and FBI and having the Washington State Patrol conduct background checks through the W.A.T.C.H. (Washington Access to Criminal History) program. Our goal is to make sure the applicant is stable and has a suitable background for security work.

Training

Our experienced management team and trainers work one on one with new officers during eight hours of initial security training, which includes classroom and briefings with senior officers. Training topics include:

  • Basic Security
  • Legal Powers and Limitations
  • Emergency Response
  • Safety and Accident Prevention
  • Positive Communications: Written, Verbal and Non-Verbal

Once security officers have completed their classes and initial instruction, they receive on-going site-specific training from the senior training officers to maximize their effectiveness at the client’s location. In addition, Merchant Patrol Security provides training through classes and company newsletters.