Here is a comprehensive career guide for Security Guards considering a move to Mansfield, Texas.

A Career Guide for Security Guards in Mansfield, TX

If you're in the security field and considering a move to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Mansfield, Texas, offers a distinct blend of suburban stability and proximity to major urban opportunities. As a local, I can tell you that Mansfield isn't just another dot on the map between Dallas and Fort Worth; it’s a community with its own economic drivers, specific security needs, and a cost of living that, while rising, remains more accessible than the urban cores. This guide is built on local data and on-the-ground insights to give you a clear, realistic picture of what your career as a security guard looks like in Mansfield.

The Salary Picture: Where Mansfield Stands

Let's start with the numbers that matter. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market data, the financial landscape for Security Guards in the Mansfield area is modest but competitive for the region.

The median salary for a Security Guard in Mansfield is $36,497 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.55. This is slightly above the national average of $36,140 per year, a small but meaningful margin when you factor in the local economy. The Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area has 159 jobs specifically listed for Security Guards, indicating a steady, though not explosive, demand. Over the next decade, the 10-year job growth is projected at 3%, which aligns with national trends for the profession.

Experience-Level Breakdown

While the median provides a baseline, your earnings will vary significantly based on experience, specialization, and the type of employer. Here’s a realistic breakdown for the Mansfield area:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary Range	Hourly Rate Range	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	$30,000 - $34,000	$14.42 - $16.35	Basic patrols, access control, reporting incidents. Often at retail, small office parks, or residential communities.
Mid-Level	$36,000 - $42,000	$17.31 - $20.19	Armed posts, higher-responsibility sites (hospitals, schools), some supervisory duties. Requires TX Level II or III license.
Senior/Supervisor	$43,000 - $52,000	$20.67 - $25.00	Team leadership, site management, client liaison, advanced training (CPR/AED). Often at major corporate or government sites.
Expert/Specialist	$53,000+	$25.48+	Executive protection, critical infrastructure security, security manager roles. Requires extensive experience and advanced certifications.

Comparison to Other Texas Cities

Mansfield's salary is on par with many similar-sized cities in Texas but trails behind major metros where cost of living is higher.

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)
Mansfield	$36,497	103.3
Dallas	$37,200	106.5
Austin	$38,100	118.9
San Antonio	$35,800	98.3
Houston	$36,500	100.8

Insider Tip: The slight premium over the national average is a positive sign, but it's crucial to negotiate based on your specific licenses (especially armed certification). Companies in Mansfield competing for reliable guards at the $36,497 median will often pay more for candidates with a clean driving record, no criminal history, and the ability to start immediately.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The salary number is one thing; your disposable income is another. Mansfield's cost of living is 3.3% above the national average, driven primarily by housing. Let's break down a monthly budget for a single person earning the median salary.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Security Guard, $36,497 Annual Salary)

• Gross Monthly Pay: $3,041.42
• Estimated Taxes (Federal + FICA + State): -$550
• Net Monthly Take-Home: $2,491.42
• Average 1BR Rent in Mansfield: -$1,291
• Remaining for Utilities, Groceries, Transport, Savings: $1,200.42

This leaves roughly $1,200 for all other expenses. It's manageable but tight. A significant portion will go to a car payment and insurance, as Mansfield is a commuter city with limited public transit. Budgeting $400 for a car, $150 for gas/insurance, $300 for groceries, and $200 for utilities leaves only $150 for savings, entertainment, or debt. Living with a roommate or in a more affordable neighborhood can significantly change this equation.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

On a single $36,497 salary, buying a home in Mansfield is challenging. The median home price is approximately $350,000. A 20% down payment ($70,000) is a major hurdle. Even with an FHA loan (3.5% down, ~$12,250), the monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would likely exceed $2,000, which is nearly 80% of the take-home pay calculated above. This is not financially advisable. Homeownership typically becomes feasible at the mid-to-senior level ($45,000+) with dual incomes or significant savings.

Where the Jobs Are: Mansfield's Major Employers

Mansfield's job market for security guards is anchored by a few key sectors: healthcare, education, and logistics. Unlike downtown Dallas, you won't find many skyscraper postings, but you will find stable, long-term posts at these local institutions.

1. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Mansfield: This is a major employer. Security here is critical for patient safety, asset protection, and managing visitor flow. They often hire for both in-house security and contract positions. Hiring trends show a consistent need for both day and night shifts.
2. Mansfield Independent School District (MISD): School security is a growing field. MISD employs security officers and campus monitors. These positions are often day-shift, align with school calendars (summers off, but lower pay), and require a clean background check. Demand is steady due to ongoing enrollment growth.
3. Amazon Fulfillment Center (DFW7): Located just south of Mansfield in Fort Worth, this massive facility is a huge employer for security personnel. The work is often more industrial, focusing on warehouse security, access control, and loss prevention. Shifts are 24/7, and the employer often offers competitive pay and benefits.
4. Texas Health Resources Mansfield: Another key healthcare provider. Similar to Baylor, they need security for ERs, parking lots, and general facility patrols. These roles often prioritize de-escalation training and have a strong focus on customer service.
5. Lake Ridge High School & Other Large Schools: Beyond the district, individual large campuses hire dedicated security. These roles are less about armed response and more about being a visible deterrent and first responder to minor incidents.
6. Logistics Parks (I-35W Corridor): The area south of Mansfield along I-35W is packed with distribution centers for companies like Frito-Lay, Medline, and others. These facilities require 24/7 security for access control, truck gate operations, and warehouse patrols. These are often contract jobs with companies like Allied Universal or Securitas.
7. The Town Square & Retail Centers: While not a single employer, the Mansfield Town Square and shopping centers along Highway 121 need loss prevention and walk-around security. These are common entry-level posts.

Insider Tip: The most stable jobs are often with the school district or healthcare systems. While the pay might be at the lower end of the median, the benefits (health insurance, retirement) are typically better than with smaller contract firms. For higher pay, target the logistics and warehouse security roles.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas has specific requirements for security guards, and getting licensed is a prerequisite for almost all professional jobs.

• Level I - Unarmed Security Guard: This is the base requirement. You must complete a 6-hour training course from a licensed school, pass a state exam, and submit fingerprints for a background check. Total cost is typically $150 - $250, and the timeline from start to holding your license is about 3-6 weeks.
• Level II - Armed Security Guard: This requires the Level I license plus an additional 15 hours of firearm proficiency and legal training. The total cost jumps to $300 - $500. The timeline is similar, but you must also qualify with a firearm. This license is essential for higher-paying posts (hospital ERs, armed corporate security).
• Level III - Commissioned Officer (Arrest Powers): This is the highest level, allowing for detention and arrest on premises. It requires Level II plus an additional 45 hours of training. It's more common for government or high-security contract work and can cost $800+.

Process:

1. Complete training at a licensed Texas school (there are several in the DFW area).
2. Submit your application to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Bureau.
3. Get fingerprinted.
4. Wait for approval (typically 30-45 days).

Insider Tip: Many security companies will sponsor your Level I or Level II training if you agree to work for them for a set period (e.g., 6 months). This is a great way to enter the field with no upfront cost.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

As a commuter city, where you live affects your daily life and finances. Here are neighborhoods to consider, balancing rent and commute.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Best For
Historic Downtown	Walkable, charming, older buildings. Easy access to local shops.	$1,250	Those who want a short commute to local jobs (schools, town center) and a community feel.
North Mansfield (near 156)	Suburban, family-oriented, newer subdivisions.	$1,350	Those working at Baylor or the northern schools. A bit pricier but quiet and safe.
South Mansfield (near 1431)	Growing, more affordable, closer to I-35W for logistics jobs.	$1,200	Commuters to the Amazon center or warehouse parks. More traffic but easier highway access.
East Mansfield (near Kennedale)	Blends suburban and rural. Larger lots, lower density.	$1,150	Those seeking more space and a quieter environment, willing to drive a bit further.
West Mansfield (near Walnut Creek)	Established, wooded, near parks and outdoor areas.	$1,275	Nature lovers who want a balance of suburban comfort and green space.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 3% job growth suggests stability, not rapid expansion. Career advancement in Mansfield requires specialization.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Armed (Level II): Adds $2 - $4/hour to the base rate.
  • Executive Protection: Rare in Mansfield itself but available in the wider DFW metro. Can command $25 - $50/hour with the right experience and network.
  • Security Supervisor/Manager: Requires leadership skills and often a business or security management degree. Can push salary into the $50,000 - $65,000 range locally.
  • Technology Integration: Experience with CCTV, access control systems, and security software is increasingly valuable.

• 10-Year Outlook: The demand will be stable, driven by the continued growth of Mansfield and the DFW metro. Automation may reduce some static guard posts, but roles requiring human judgment, customer service, and emergency response will remain. The key to growth is moving from a static post to a mobile or supervisory role, or transitioning into a specialized field like cybersecurity (physical security overlap) or risk management.

The Verdict: Is Mansfield Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable Job Market: Strong demand in healthcare, education, and logistics.	Commuter City: You will likely need a reliable car.
Manageable Cost of Living: More affordable than Dallas or Austin, though rent is rising.	Limited Nightlife/Urban Culture: It's a suburb; for big-city amenities, you drive to Dallas/Fort Worth.
Growing Community: Good schools, family-friendly environment.	Salary Ceiling: Top-tier pay is in the larger metro area; local growth is modest.
Good Entry Point: Accessible licensing and a range of employers from entry-level to specialized.	Traffic: I-35W and Highway 121 can be heavily congested during peak hours.

Final Recommendation:

Mansfield is an excellent choice for security guards who are practical, self-reliant, and looking for stability over high-stakes glamour. It's ideal for those starting their career (with a company that might sponsor training) or for mid-level professionals seeking a better work-life balance than a downtown core provides. If you're willing to specialize (get armed, learn technology) and commute occasionally to the wider DFW area for advanced opportunities, Mansfield can be a strategic home base. It's not a place to get rich quickly as a security guard, but it's a place to build a solid, sustainable career.

FAQs

1. Can I find security jobs in Mansfield without prior experience?
Yes. Many entry-level positions in retail, residential communities, and some school roles require only a clean record and a willingness to get licensed. Companies like Allied Universal often hire for these roles.

2. How is the job market for armed guards in Mansfield?
It's smaller but more lucrative than the unarmed market. The primary employers are healthcare systems (Baylor, Texas Health) and some logistics facilities. Having your Level II license significantly improves your prospects and pay.

3. What's the biggest mistake new security guards make in this area?
Underestimating the commute. A job in south Mansfield (near I-35W) from a north Mansfield home can take 30+ minutes in traffic. Always factor in commute time and cost when evaluating a job offer.

4. Are there union jobs for security guards in Mansfield?
Union presence is minimal in Mansfield for security. Most jobs are with non-union contract firms or direct hires by employers like the school district or hospital. Benefits and pay are set by company policy, not collective bargaining.

5. Is it better to work for a contract firm or directly for an employer like the school district?
It depends on your priorities. Contract firms (like Allied, Securitas) offer variety and sometimes higher starting pay but less job stability (contracts can end). Direct employers (school district, hospital) offer better benefits, stability, and a clear career path within the organization, often with a slightly lower starting wage. For long-term stability in Mansfield, a direct-hire role is often preferred.