Loss prevention officers work undercover in retail locations to identify suspicious behavior and apprehend those attempting theft. Unlike uniformed security officers, the loss prevention officers do not wear one and tend to blend in with the crowd.
Loss prevention managers also work for major insurance companies where they inspect properties to be insured and identify safety concerns that need to be addressed to reduce the risk to the insurer.
Loss Prevention Career Requirements
A high school education is required. Training programs are offered through private security training companies that include classroom instruction in initiating contact, electronic surveillance, and fundamentals of loss prevention. At the retail level, training may be provided by the employer.
For a career in loss prevention, the applicant must be observant, able to think quickly, and use good judgment to solve problems. Excellent customer service skills are required, and for retail loss prevention, the ability to blend into the crowd is a plus.
Loss prevention officers are also hired in the casino industry and by manufacturers who want to reduce loss by employee theft or waste of materials used in the manufacturing process.
Education and Training
For jobs in gaming or specific manufacturing processes, an associate or bachelor’s degree may be helpful. Additional coursework or new hire training may be required by employers where experience or knowledge of construction or engineering is necessary.
The title of loss prevention manager may also be found in the computer related field of information security where applicants will need a bachelor’s or even master’s degree in information systems security.
Loss Prevention Career Salary
Loss prevention officers in retail establishments are usually paid on a per hour basis. The compensation for an officer is between $22,000 and $28,000 per year, while a loss prevention manager in retail earns $33,000 – $43,000.
The salaries for managers with years of experience can reach $70,000 annually for those who manage loss prevention teams for large retail chains.
Loss Prevention Career Opportunities
The potential for career growth in loss prevention may be highest for those employed by insurance companies. From entry level positions as loss control representatives to loss prevention engineering positions, insurance companies employ many people in their effort to minimize and identify potential losses.
Retail stores and big box home improvement chains employ many loss control officers with potential for advancement to loss control manager positions.
For those with advanced education in specific areas of manufacturing or distribution, the position of loss control consultant may be an option whether as a salaried employee or acting as an independent contractor to various businesses.
Take a look at other great Criminal Justice Careers.
Radek holds a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Boston University. He is currently doing consulting work and runs this blog to provide relevant information on criminal justice degrees, colleges and related careers.
how do i apply for a job like this ?
Good question!
In order to become a Loss Prevention Officer one must apply with the corporation looking to hire loss prevention professionals.
Usually the company looking to protect their merchandise will hire their loss prevention staff. For example, the Walmart by my house hires their employees and doesn’t use a staffing agency (very popular back in a day.. still is) to get their loss prevention staff. Some places may require you to have a state license. They would let you know how to obtain one. If not, look at your state’s website to see if there are any necessary steps one needs to take to become a loss prevention officer.
I’VE RECENTLY RETIRED FROM U.S.DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE/FEDERAL ENFORCEMENT AS SENIOR SPECIALIST,WITH (27 YRS. OF EXPERIENCE WITH THOUSANDS OF DANGEROUS CRIMINALS BOTH MALE & FEMALES AS WELL AS VARIOUS GANGS/GROUPS I’ve also transported prisoners along with UNITED STATES MARSHALS TO BE AIRLIFTED OUT OF STATE ASSISTED IN COURT OPERATIONS AND CONTROL MOVEMENT OF HIGH PROFILED SUSPECTS , AND IMMIGRATION DEPORTATION PROCESS TO VARIOUS AGENCIES,DEA,ATF,DOD,STATE CORRECTIONS,INTERNATIONAL TREATY TRANSFERS WHO HAD WARRANTS-HOLDOVER CLAUSE TO KEEP IN CUSTODY UNTIL NOTIFIED CLEARANCE IS GRANTED FOR RELEASE TO TRANSPORT OR DISMISSAL BAIL,HALFWAY HOUSING SUPERVISED LIVING AUTHORIZED BY THE JUSTICE DEPARTMENT OR REPRESENTATIVES.
I was offered $18/hour for Loss Prevention Undercover Investigator working as an undercover to find out if employees in retail stores are stealing/shoplifting, is this a good hourly rate? Or should I ask for $20/hr?
If you feel you have a bargaining chip, and you know you won’t risk losing your job by asking, you always can ask for more. However, given the current economy $18 might not be too bad. Do what you think is right for you and take all things into consideration.
yes!!!! very good take it you work hard that 2 extra dollars will come.
hey i have question i am current student studying for criminal justice. How do i do start off with basic experience? What do i need to do?
you how to start off in a store that has loss prevention, like walmart ross target kmart or marshalls, you might not get the to be it right away but once you work hard for about a yr or two and get cool with the LP manager you should go for it. good things come to those who wait
I am currently working for The limited as a sales associate for 2 years now. Is it a right move to start as a Loss prevention associate? Do i have to take up any course?
I know a place that charge for a LP certificate &its $250 is this real?
I work for a big retail company and was offered a job in loss prevention or asset protection. I had to submit to a background check and drug test, as well as get a private security license through the city. It was definitely one of the most fun and exciting jobs I’ve ever had. It was hard at first because I wasn’t sure what to look for. It was about six weeks before I had my first stop but I helped other AP’s with observing and confronting shoplifters. It was all on the job training and working with the others to learn what they looked for and what worked for them. It was about learning to read people. However, we not only watched customers but other workers as well. It is sad to see someone you thought you knew stealing from work. It was definitely an experience I will never forget.