Shipboard Security Guard – Passenger Screening and Surveillance

Houston Skilled Consultancy; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 268,000 - 469,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free accommodation onboard

Meals onboard

Insurance coverage

Hazard allowances

Career progression

Job summary

Houston Skilled Consultancy is seeking dedicated Shipboard Security Guards to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and vessel property on luxury cruise ships. The role requires vigilance, calmness under pressure, and strong teamwork in a maritime environment.

Responsibilities include security patrols, passenger screening, CCTV monitoring, incident reporting, and collaboration with ship officers. Prior shipboard or port security experience is highly valued.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; security certifications preferred (e.g., STCW, ISPS).
• Basic training in first aid, firefighting, and emergency response.
• Good physical condition for long patrols.
• Knowledge of security equipment (X-ray scanners, detectors, CCTV).
• Excellent observations and problem-solving skills.
• English verbal communication; additional languages a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform regular and surprise security patrols throughout the ship.
• Screen passengers, baggage, and crew using security equipment.
• Monitor CCTV to detect suspicious activity or threats.
• Enforce ISPS Code and maritime safety protocols.
• Respond to security incidents, alarms, or disturbances.
• Escort unauthorized individuals from restricted areas.
• Maintain incident logs and reports for management and authorities.
• Participate in onboard drills and real-time emergencies.
• Collaborate with captain, safety officers, and onboard law enforcement.
• Assist in crowd control during embarkation/disembarkation.

Skills

Observational skills

Problem solving

Verbal communication

Calm under pressure

Multicultural adaptability

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

STCW Awareness

ISPS Code Awareness

First aid training

Firefighting training

Tools

X-ray scanners

Handheld detectors

Surveillance systems

Job description

Job Summary

Houston Skilled Consultancy is hiring dedicated Shipboard Security Guards to ensure the safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel property on luxury cruise ships. This position is ideal for individuals with a strong sense of responsibility, alertness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. The Security Guard will be responsible for surveillance operations, passenger screening, and responding to onboard incidents to maintain a secure environment at sea.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform regular and surprise security patrols throughout the ship, including restricted areas.

• Conduct screening of passengers, baggage, and crew using security equipment such as metal detectors and scanners.

• Monitor CCTV systems to detect suspicious activities or security threats.

• Ensure compliance with international maritime safety and security protocols (e.g., ISPS Code).

• Respond promptly to security incidents, alarms, or passenger disturbances.

• Escort unauthorized individuals from restricted areas.

• Maintain detailed logs and incident reports for management and port authorities.

• Participate in onboard emergency drills and provide support during real-time emergencies.

• Work closely with the Ship Captain, Safety Officers, and onboard law enforcement teams when necessary.

• Assist in crowd control during embarkation and disembarkation.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional security certifications (e.g., STCW, ISPS Code Awareness) are preferred.

• Basic training in first aid, firefighting, and emergency response.

• Good physical condition with the ability to stand or patrol for long hours.

• Working knowledge of security equipment (X-ray scanners, handheld detectors, surveillance systems).

• Excellent observational and problem-solving skills.

• Strong verbal communication in English; additional languages are a plus.

• Ability to maintain composure and professionalism in high-pressure situations.

Experience

• Minimum 1–2 years of experience in security services, preferably in maritime, aviation, hotel, or public safety industries.

• Prior experience in shipboard or port security will be highly regarded.

Working Hours

• Rotational work schedule with shifts covering 24/7 ship operations.

• Average duty duration: 8–10 hours per day, including night and weekend shifts.

• Rotational assignments: 6 months onboard with scheduled leave breaks.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of international maritime security standards (ISPS Code, SOLAS, MARPOL).

• Capability to handle confidential or sensitive matters with discretion.

• Proficiency in writing incident reports and maintaining security documentation.

• Ability to work in multicultural environments and adapt to sea-based life.

• Team-oriented with the ability to follow chain-of-command protocols.

Benefits

• Competitive monthly salary with overtime and hazard allowances.

• Free accommodation and meals onboard during the contract period.

• International travel exposure and multicultural working environment.

• Health and life insurance coverage during contract tenure.

• Uniforms and protective gear provided.

• Opportunities for long-term contracts and promotions based on performance.

Why Join Us

At Houston Skilled Consultancy, we pride ourselves on partnering with world-class cruise liners and providing our candidates with opportunities to grow in one of the most exciting, fast-paced sectors in hospitality and security. Our shipboard security roles offer not just employment— but an adventure at sea, professional growth, and a global platform for your skills.