A monitoring security officer is a licensed Class 1 security provider who monitors security systems and responds to information received through those systems. This can include CCTV, alarm systems, electronic access control, duress alarms and other technology used to protect people and property. Monitoring officers may work in dedicated control rooms, alarm monitoring centres, shopping centres, hospitals, universities, major commercial facilities, industrial sites and other environments where security operations are coordinated electronically.

The job involves much more than simply watching television screens. A good monitoring officer needs excellent observation and communication skills, attention to detail and the ability to recognise when something doesn't look right. They may need to assess an alarm or developing incident, communicate with security officers on the ground, dispatch mobile patrols, contact emergency services, maintain accurate logs and preserve CCTV or other evidence for later investigation. Technology is becoming increasingly important throughout the security industry, making monitoring skills valuable for people entering the profession. The CPP20218 Certificate II in Security Operations provides the training pathway used in Queensland for the security officer (monitoring) licence function, together with crowd controller and security officer (unarmed).

BARS Training Australia includes practical communication, risk assessment, incident response, access control and security procedures throughout the course. Monitoring can be an excellent security career for someone who is observant, comfortable with technology, communicates well and enjoys making decisions based on information coming from multiple sources.