Antonio Salguero, owner of a security firm protecting Congregation Beth Israel in San Diego, prepares for the Jewish High Holy Days with extra guards, radios, and emergency protocols. His work intensified after a shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego killed three, including security guard Amin Abdullah, who died confronting gunmen. Despite 1.3 million security guards nationwide—more than police—many earn under $19 an hour, about 73 cents per dollar compared to the average U.S. worker, per a UC Berkeley Labor Center report.

Guards often lack health insurance, face high turnover, and receive minimal training, with state requirements ranging from 4 to 48 hours for unarmed staff. The private security industry is a $50 billion market, yet wages and training lag behind risks. Unions like the Service Employees International Union advocate for better pay; New York City now mandates $33.70/hour for armed guards and $22.20 for trained unarmed guards, with Baltimore following suit.

Salguero increased security post-Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, underscoring the growing tension between duty and compensation.