Security Guard in Billings, MT

The Salary Picture: Where Billings Stands

If you're looking at security work in Billings, the first thing to understand is that you're entering a market where pay is consistently a step below the national average, but the cost of living helps offset that. The median salary for a Security Guard in Billings is $35,012/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $16.83/hour. For context, the national average for this role sits at $36,140/year. That means Billings guards earn about 3% less than their national counterparts. However, with a metro population of 120,874, there are roughly 241 security guard positions in the area, offering a stable, if not booming, job market. The 10-year job growth projection is modest at 3%, indicating a slow but steady demand rather than a sudden surge.

Here’s how pay breaks down by experience level in the Billings area:

Experience Level	Expected Hourly Rate	Estimated Annual Salary
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$15.50 - $16.75	$32,240 - $34,840
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$16.75 - $18.50	$34,840 - $38,480
Senior/Lead (8-12 years)	$18.50 - $20.50	$38,480 - $42,640
Expert/Specialist (12+ years)	$20.50+	$42,640+

When compared to other Montana cities, Billings is typical for the region but sits below the state capital, Helena, and the tech/retail hubs of Bozeman and Missoula. For example, Bozeman's cost of living is significantly higher, and security pay often reflects that, but it's also a more competitive market. For someone seeking a balanced, stable environment without the intense pressure of a major coastal city, Billings offers a realistic entry point.

Insider Tip: Your starting pay will heavily depend on the employer. Hospital security and corporate contract firms often pay at the higher end of the entry-level range, while smaller, standalone businesses might be at the lower end. Always ask about shift differentials—nights and weekends can add $1.00 to $2.00 per hour.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's move from gross income to what you actually have to live on. Billings is known for its affordability, thanks in part to a cost of living index of 89.6 (compared to the US average of 100). The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $874/month. Using the median salary of $35,012 as our baseline, here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Security Guard (Median Salary)

Item	Cost ($)	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$2,918	Based on $35,012 annual (no overtime)
Estimated Taxes (Federal + FICA + State)	~$460	Assumes single filer, standard deduction
Net Take-Home Pay	$2,458	Post-tax income
Rent (1-BR Average)	$874
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Internet)	$150	Can be lower in winter with natural gas
Groceries/Household	$350	Based on USDA low-cost plan for one adult
Transportation (Fuel + Maintain.)	$200	Billings is car-dependent; no real public transit
Insurance (Health + Car)	$300	Varies; employer may cover health
Debt/Student Loans	$100	Placeholder; adjust to your reality
Misc. / Leisure / Savings	$484	This is your flexibility buffer

Can they afford to buy a home? The median home price in Billings is roughly $300,000. With a $35,012 salary, a standard 20% down payment ($60,000) is out of reach for most. However, with the Montana Housing Authority programs (like the MyHome program for first-time buyers), you can get down payment assistance. A more realistic path is to buy a starter home on the West End or in the Heights for $220,000-$250,000. This would require a mortgage payment of around $1,200-$1,350 (including taxes/insurance), which would be over 50% of your net take-home pay—not recommended on a single median income. This is a two-income household goal or a role you need to advance from first.

Personal Insight: Many security guards here work overtime or have a spouse/partner with income to comfortably buy a home. The key is to view the first few years as a stepping stone. The affordability of rent means you can save aggressively if you're disciplined.

Where the Jobs Are: Billings's Major Employers

Billings' economy is rooted in healthcare, oil/gas, and regional retail. Security jobs follow these sectors. Here are the major employers where you'll find consistent openings:

1. Billings Clinic & St. Vincent Healthcare (Part of SCL Health): These are the two largest healthcare employers in the city. Their security teams are large, unionized in some cases, and handle everything from emergency room de-escalation to asset protection. They offer some of the best benefits and pay in the city, often starting above the median. Hiring is steady due to the essential nature of healthcare.

2. Billings School District 2 & Montana State University Billings: School security has become a significant field. These are day-shift positions (when school is in session) with summers off, though some year-round roles exist. MSUB also needs security for campus events and dorms. Pay is competitive with the public sector.

3. Albertsons (In-Store & Distribution Center): Albertsons is the dominant grocery chain in Billings. Their in-store security (loss prevention) and distribution center guards are always in demand. It's a good entry point for someone with no experience, as they often train internally.

4. Chevron & ConocoPhillips (Refinery & Corporate Offices): The refineries on the city's west side and their corporate offices in the Downtown core are major employers. These are high-security sites. You'll need a clean background, and often, specific training or a military veteran status is preferred. Pay is at the mid-to-senior level.

5. Billings Police Department (Parking & Court Security): The City of Billings hires security for parking garages, municipal buildings, and courtrooms. These are public sector jobs with excellent benefits and pensions, making them highly competitive. Watch the City of Billings careers page.

6. Private Contract Firms (Allied Universal, Securitas): These national firms service many of the "mid-tier" sites: office buildings, retail centers, and industrial parks. They are the most common employers for entry-level guards. Turnover can be high, but it's the fastest way to get your foot in the door and gain experience.

Hiring Trends: The most consistent hiring happens in the summer (for seasonal event security at the Montana Fair and local concerts) and in the fall (as hospitals and schools staff up for the new academic year). The oil and gas sector's health is tied to local hiring; when oil prices are high, refinery security contracts expand.

Getting Licensed in MT

Montana has straightforward licensing requirements, managed by the Montana Department of Justice (DOJ), Division of Criminal Investigation. It’s not a barrier to entry.

Key Requirements:

• Age: 18 years or older.
• Background Check: You must pass a fingerprint-based criminal history check through the Montana DOJ and FBI. Felony convictions typically disqualify you, and serious misdemeanors may be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
• Training: No state-mandated training is required for a basic unarmed security guard license. This is a key difference from many states. However, employers will provide on-the-job training, and it is highly recommended to seek additional training (like carotid restraint, first aid/CPR, and de-escalation) from a certified provider like the Montana Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) Academy or a local training center.
• Application & Fee: You apply via the Montana DOJ website. The application fee is $50, and the fingerprint processing fee is $30. Total cost: $80.
• Armed Guard License: If you want to carry a firearm, the requirements are stricter. You must have a valid Montana Concealed Carry Permit (or be exempt), complete 8 hours of training from a POST-certified instructor, and submit additional paperwork. This adds significant time and cost.

Timeline: The process for an unarmed license is relatively quick. Once you submit your application and fingerprints, it can take 2-4 weeks for approval. The armed license can take longer due to the additional training and vetting. Insider Tip: Start the application process before you apply for jobs. Many employers will hire you contingent on you obtaining your license, but having it in hand makes you a more attractive candidate.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Where you live in Billings affects your commute and lifestyle. The city is spread out, and traffic is minimal, but a long cross-town drive in winter can be a hassle. Here are top picks based on commute to major employers and lifestyle.

1. Downtown / Historic District:

   • Vibe: Walkable, urban, and historic. Close to restaurants, bars, and the Alberta Bair Theater. Older apartments and some new lofts.
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to most downtown offices, the police department, and Billings Clinic. A short drive to hospitals.
   • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,300/month for a 1BR. Higher than average, but you can often walk to work.
   • Best For: Guards working corporate security, police/court jobs, or those who want a vibrant social scene.

2. The Heights (Highland Park / Arrowhead):

   • Vibe: The fastest-growing suburb. Modern subdivisions, big-box retail, and chain restaurants. Target, Costco, and major shopping centers are here.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to most locations. Easy access to I-90 and the airport.
   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100/month for a 1BR. Newer complexes abound.
   • Best For: Guards working at Albertsons distribution, retail security, or those who want modern amenities and a family-friendly environment.

3. West End (Near the Refineries):

   • Vibe: Industrial and established residential. Close to the Chevron and ConocoPhillips refineries, the airport, and the Billings Clinic (west campus).
   • Commute: 5-15 minutes to refinery security, airport, or hospital west-side jobs. A longer drive (20-25 min) to downtown.
   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,000/month. More affordable, with older, well-kept apartments and houses.
   • Best For: Guards working in the oil/gas sector or at the airport. Ideal for those who prioritize a short commute over nightlife.

4. South Side (The Rims area):

   • Vibe: The original residential heart of Billings. Established neighborhoods with character, closer to the hospitals and downtown. Borders the iconic "Rims" for hiking.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to hospitals, downtown, and schools.
   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,050/month.
   • Best For: Guards working at St. Vincent or Billings Clinic who want a classic Billings neighborhood feel with good access to outdoor recreation.

5. Lockwood (East of Downtown):

   • Vibe: A semi-rural, unincorporated community east of downtown. More affordable housing, larger lots, and a small-town feel.
   • Commute: 15-20 minutes to downtown (via I-90). A longer commute to the West End.
   • Rent Estimate: $750 - $950/month. The most affordable option.
   • Best For: Budget-conscious guards, those who don't mind a commute, and people who want more space and a quieter environment.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A security guard role in Billings is often a starting point, not a destination. With the 3% job growth, advancement is more about specialization than new positions.

• Specialty Premiums: Moving into these roles can boost your pay by 15-25%.

  • Armed Guard: As mentioned, this is the biggest jump. Refinery and casino security often require it.
  • Executive Protection: Very niche in Billings, but exists for high-net-worth individuals or corporate executives visiting the area. Requires extensive experience and network.
  • Fire Inspector/Supervisor: Some guards transition into fire safety roles, especially within large facilities like hospitals or refineries.
  • Loss Prevention Manager: For those starting in retail, moving into a management role overseeing multiple stores is a clear path.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Corporate Security Officer -> Security Supervisor -> Security Manager (for large employers like hospitals or refineries).
  2. Contract Guard -> Field Supervisor -> Account Manager (with Allied/Securitas).
  3. Public Sector Guard (City/State) -> Sergeant -> Lieutenant (with pension benefits).

• 10-Year Outlook: The 3% growth won't create a flood of new jobs, but it ensures stability. The key will be adapting to technology (e.g., surveillance systems, access control). Guards who get certified in video monitoring and electronic security systems will be more valuable. The retirements of the aging workforce will also open up senior roles. Personal Insight: Your best bet for a significant pay raise is to move from contract work to a direct-hire position with a stable employer like a hospital or the city. Unionized positions, while competitive, offer the clearest path to a $45,000+ salary with benefits.

The Verdict: Is Billings Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Extremely Low Cost of Living: Your paycheck goes much further here.	Low Median Salary: You'll earn less than the national average.
Stable Job Market: Essential employers (hospitals, schools, refineries) provide consistent demand.	Limited Career Growth: The 3% growth means you must be proactive in seeking new skills or employers.
Easy Commute: No traffic congestion. You can live almost anywhere and commute easily.	Car-Dependent City: You will need a reliable vehicle. Public transit is limited.
Access to Outdoor Recreation: The mountains, rivers, and hiking are minutes away.	Harsh Winters: Snow, ice, and cold are a reality for 5-6 months of the year.
Friendly, Small-Town Feel: With a population of ~120k, it feels manageable and community-oriented.	Limited Entertainment: A quieter city; nightlife and cultural options are modest compared to metros.

Final Recommendation: Billings is an excellent choice for a security guard who values affordability, stability, and work-life balance over high salary potential. It's ideal for those starting their career, looking for a second career, or seeking to escape the high cost of living on the coasts. If you're motivated to specialize (e.g., get armed certification) and target jobs with specific employers (hospitals, refineries), you can build a solid, middle-class life. However, if your primary goal is to maximize income within this profession, you may find higher ceilings in larger markets, though at a much higher cost of living. For the right person, Billings offers a realistic path to financial stability.

FAQs

1. Do I need a car to work as a security guard in Billings?
Yes, absolutely. The city is spread out, and most security posts (hospitals on the West End, refineries, retail in the Heights) are not accessible by public transit. A reliable vehicle is a non-negotiable job requirement.

2. Is the security field unionized in Billings?
It's mixed. Some positions, particularly at the large hospitals (Billings Clinic, St. Vincent) and some city jobs, are unionized (e.g., Teamsters). Most contract security work with firms like Allied or Securitas is non-union. Union jobs typically offer better pay, benefits, and job security but are harder to get into.

3. How competitive are the jobs at the refineries?
Very competitive. These are among the highest-paying security jobs in the area. Employers strongly prefer candidates with military or law enforcement experience, a clean background, and often an armed guard license. Networking and persistence are key.

4. What's the best way to find a security job in Billings?
Start with the major employers' career pages: Billings Clinic, St. Vincent, City of Billings, and MSUB. For contract jobs, check Indeed and LinkedIn regularly. Insider Tip: Walk into the security office at a local hospital or large business and ask if they have openings. In a city this size, a direct approach can sometimes beat an online application.

**5. Can I make a living on the median salary of $35,012 in Billings