First-Line Supervisors of Security Workers

First-line security supervisors do many human tasks (like training guards, handling disturbances, and making judgment calls) that aren’t easily replaced by machines ^{[1] [2]}. For example, one security expert notes that human operators are much better at spotting subtle behaviors and context in video than today’s AI ^[2]. On the other hand, some technology already helps: smart cameras, sensors, and even patrol robots can monitor premises and alert people to obvious threats ^{[3] [3]}.

In fact, robots in offices and on campuses now patrol hallways and check alarms, saving guard time ^{[4] [5]}. Even so, these tools usually send alerts to a human and need a person to investigate or explain. Supervisors still do the complex work of advising staff, writing reports, and deciding how to respond – tasks that rely on experience and human contact ^{[1] [2]}.

Security firms may hire AI faster when it clearly cuts costs or fills gaps. Sensors and AI cameras can work 24/7 and catch details that bored or tired guards might miss ^{[4] [3]}. For instance, one study found a robo-guard saves about \$79,000 per year compared to a human, helping companies who struggle to fill shifts ^{[4] [5]}.

BLS also projects that jobs for installing smart security systems (alarms, cameras, analysis software) will grow much faster than guard jobs ^[3]. At the same time, adoption is gradual because technology isn’t perfect and can be expensive. Privacy rules and safety concerns (like false alarms or camera blind spots) mean people still want a trained guard or supervisor to check things ^{[3] [5]}.

In short, AI is reaching into security work to help with routine watching and alerts, but for now supervisors’ human skills – judgment, communication, and leadership – remain central ^{[1] [3]}.