Best Security Guard Companies in Canada (Pay & Benefits 2026)

In the Canadian security industry, there is a massive divide.

On one side, you have the "Warm Body" sites. These are the jobs where you sit in a parking lot shack at 3:00 AM for minimum wage ($17/hr), freezing and bored.

On the other side, you have "Specialized Security." These are roles in hospitals, airports, and government buildings. These guards carry handcuffs (and sometimes batons), deal with real conflict, and earn $22 to $28 per hour.

The mistake most new guards make is applying to the wrong company. They apply to a generic agency and get stuck at a construction gate.

If you want a career with Benefits, Paid Training, and Respect, you need to target the "Big Players" who hold the high-value contracts. Here are the best security companies to work for in Canada in 2026.

1. Commissionaires (The Veteran's Choice)

Best For: Stability & Top Pay

The Pay: $18.00 – $26.00+ per hour.

• Why it wins: Commissionaires is a non-profit organization originally created to employ war veterans. Today, they hire civilians too, but they maintain a "Military" culture.
• The Contracts: They hold the most prestigious Federal Government contracts. You might be guarding an RCMP detachment, a Service Canada office, or a military base.
• The Stability: Because they work for the government, the pay is consistent, and layoffs are rare.
• The Benefits: They offer excellent health/dental plans (often better than private companies) because of their non-profit status.

2. Paladin Security (The Healthcare Specialist)

Best For: Training & Career Growth

The Pay: $18.00 – $24.00 per hour.

• Why it wins: Paladin dominates the Healthcare Security market (Hospitals).
• The "Risk" Premium: Hospital security is hard. You deal with aggressive patients and emergency rooms. Because of this, Paladin pays a premium. A "Healthcare Security Officer" makes much more than a mall cop.
• Free Training: Paladin is famous for its internal "University." They will train you in "Use of Force" (Handcuffs/Baton) and "Non-Violent Crisis Intervention" (NVCI) often at no cost to you. This training usually costs $300+ elsewhere.

3. GardaWorld (Cash Services)

Best For: The "Armored Car" Route

The Pay: $17.00 (Guard) – $28.00+ (Armored Driver).

• The Divide: GardaWorld is huge.
  • General Security: Pays average rates ($17/hr).
  • Cash Services (Brinks/Armored): This is where the money is. If you get your Possession and Acquisition License (PAL) for firearms, you can work on the armored trucks.
• The Opportunity: They are constantly hiring. If you need a job tomorrow, GardaWorld is your best bet because they have massive contracts (Airports, Condos, Malls).
• Related Link: This fits well with our Jobs That Hire Without a Resume guide for their general labour roles.

4. Paragon Security (The Condo Kings)

Best For: Customer Service & Concierge

The Pay: $17.50 – $22.00 per hour.

• The Niche: Paragon specializes in High-End Condominiums in Toronto and the GTA.
• The Role: You aren't really a "Guard"; you are a Concierge. You wear a suit, not a tactical uniform. You accept packages and greet residents.
• Why it fits: It is indoor, clean, and low-risk. If you hate conflict and cold weather, apply here.
• The Tip Factor: In luxury condos, residents often give the concierge cash tips at Christmas. A good concierge can make an extra $2,000 in December.

5. ASP Security (The Airport Specialists)

Best For: Aviation Lovers

The Pay: $20.00 – $25.00 per hour.

• The Niche: ASP holds major contracts at Toronto Pearson and other airports.
• The Job: Access control (checking badges), terminal patrol, and crossing guard duties.
• The Perks: You work indoors (mostly) and deal with professional airport staff. The background check is strict (Transport Canada Clearance), but the pay reflects that higher standard.

Comparison Table: Niche vs. Pay Rate

Practical Questions Answered

"Do they pay for my license?"

Usually No, but...

• The Norm: You typically must pay for your own Provincial Security License (~$250 for the course + test).
• The Exception: Companies like Paladin sometimes offer "Sponsorship" where they pay for your license upfront, and you pay them back via payroll deduction over 3 months. Always ask about this in the interview.

"Is Hospital Security dangerous?"

Yes.

• The Reality: You will physically restrain people. You will see blood. You will be yelled at.
• The Upside: It is the best experience for police applications. If you want to become a Cop, put "2 Years Hospital Security" on your resume. It proves you can handle stress.

"What is a 'Tactical' Guard?"

Higher pay, more gear.

• The Gear: These guards wear stab vests, tactical boots, and carry handcuffs. They are deployed to high-risk sites (Transit, Social Housing, Hospitals).
• The Pay: Usually $22 - $28/hr. You need specialized training (Use of Force) to qualify.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can international students work in security?

Yes.

As long as your Study Permit allows you to work, you can get a Security License. It is a very popular job for students because you can study during quiet night shifts at "warm body" sites (like an empty office building).

How long does it take to get a license?

Approx. 3-4 Weeks.

1. Take the 40-hour course (Online).
2. Take the 1-day First Aid course (In-person).
3. Pass the Ministry Test.
4. Apply for the plastic card.

Do I need a driver's license?

It helps immensely.

If you have a G License, you can drive the Mobile Patrol car. Patrol guards make more money ($20+) and have more freedom than guards who are stuck standing at a door.

About the author

Jeff Calixte (MC Yow-Z) is a Canadian career researcher and digital entrepreneur. He tracks real-time labour market data, government hiring trends, and entry-level opportunities to help newcomers and students navigate the Canadian job market.

Sources

• Paladin Security Careers: https://paladinsecurity.com/careers/
• Commissionaires Canada: https://commissionaires.ca/en/careers
• Ministry of Solicitor General (Ontario License Info): https://www.ontario.ca/page/security-guard-or-private-investigator-licence-individuals

Note:

Job availability, wages, and hiring conditions can vary widely by province, employer, season, and experience level. All salary ranges and job examples in this guide are estimates based on current labour market data. Always confirm details directly with the employer before applying.