Loss prevention officer job description
A comprehensive job description template for loss prevention officer positions in Australian retail security. Covers surveillance duties, apprehension procedures, qualifications and conditions aligned with the Security Services Industry Award 2020.
Loss prevention officer job description
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About the loss prevention officer role
A loss prevention officer protects retail businesses from theft, fraud and shrinkage by monitoring customer and staff behavior, conducting surveillance, and lawfully apprehending shoplifters. The role requires security licensing, strong observation skills, and the ability to handle confrontational situations professionally.
In Australia, loss prevention officers are classified under the Security Services Industry Award 2020 (MA000016). Classification levels depend on duties performed, experience and level of responsibility. Loss prevention officers typically fall into Level 2 or Level 3, with progression based on expertise and supervisory duties.
This template provides a foundation for creating clear, compliant job descriptions that attract qualified security professionals. Once hired, manage your loss prevention team efficiently with security rostering software.
Key responsibilities
Core duties included in this job description template
Theft prevention monitoring
Monitoring customer and staff behavior for potential theft, shoplifting or dishonest conduct using CCTV systems and floor patrols.
Surveillance operations
Conducting covert and overt surveillance using CCTV monitoring equipment, tracking suspicious behavior and documenting incidents.
Apprehension procedures
Lawfully detaining and apprehending shoplifters in accordance with legal procedures, company policy and state legislation.
Incident reporting
Writing detailed incident reports, preparing evidence packages, and maintaining accurate records of all loss prevention activities.
Law enforcement liaison
Working with police and law enforcement agencies, providing statements and evidence for prosecution of theft offences.
Exit procedures
Conducting bag checks, receipt verification and security tag checks at store exits in accordance with customer rights and company procedures.
Staff training
Training retail staff on loss prevention awareness, recognising theft indicators, and proper procedures for reporting suspicious behavior.
Data analysis
Analysing theft patterns, shrinkage data and incident trends to identify vulnerabilities and recommend prevention strategies.
Skills and attributes
What to look for in candidates
Observation skills
Exceptional attention to detail and ability to identify suspicious behavior patterns while monitoring customers and staff.
Discretion
Ability to conduct covert surveillance, maintain confidentiality, and handle sensitive situations with professionalism.
Evidence gathering
Skills in documenting incidents, preserving evidence, taking witness statements and preparing reports for legal proceedings.
Report writing
Clear and accurate written communication for incident reports, statements and documentation that may be used in court.
Legal knowledge
Understanding of detention laws, shoplifting legislation, citizens arrest powers and legal rights of accused persons.
Customer service balance
Ability to maintain security vigilance while providing positive customer interactions and not impacting the shopping experience.
Qualifications and requirements
Loss prevention officers must hold a current security licence and undergo rigorous background checks. This is a licensed security role requiring compliance with state and territory security licensing regulations and ongoing licence renewals.
- Security licence (Required)
Current Class 1A security licence (or state equivalent) - mandatory
- Police Check (Required)
Current National Police Check - mandatory requirement
- Working rights (Required)
Eligibility to work in Australia - mandatory
- Retail experience
Previous retail or loss prevention experience preferred
- Apprehension training
Knowledge of lawful detention and apprehension procedures preferred
- First Aid certificate
Current First Aid certificate preferred
- CCTV experience
Experience with CCTV monitoring and surveillance systems beneficial
- Driver's licence
Driver's licence may be required for multi-site roles
Working conditions
Set clear expectations for candidates about the loss prevention work environment
- Retail store environment during trading hours
- Standing and walking for extended periods throughout shift
- Plain clothes or uniformed work depending on store requirements
- Weekend, evening and public holiday work required
- Dealing with confrontational and potentially aggressive situations
- CCTV monitoring room and floor patrol work
- May require attendance at court for prosecution proceedings
- High-pressure situations requiring calm decision-making
Award coverage
Understanding award coverage for loss prevention officers
Security services industry award 2020
Loss prevention officers working in retail environments are typically covered by the Security Services Industry Award 2020 (MA000016). This award sets minimum pay rates, penalty rates and conditions for security industry employees including loss prevention specialists.
Under the award, loss prevention officers are typically classified at Level 2 (security officer) or Level 3 (security officer with specialized duties), depending on their experience, responsibilities and whether they perform supervisory functions. Use award interpretation software to calculate pay accurately.
Penalty rates and retail hours
Loss prevention work in retail often requires weekend, evening and public holiday coverage during peak trading periods. Penalty rates apply for work performed on Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and for evening and night shifts under the Security Services Industry Award 2020.
Casual employees receive a 25% loading in lieu of leave entitlements. Part-time and full-time employees accrue leave and receive penalty rates on top of their base rate. Given the retail environment, weekend and holiday penalties are common for loss prevention officers.
Who should use this template?
This job description template is designed for Australian retail and security businesses
Whether you operate a security company, retail chain or shopping centre, clear job descriptions help attract qualified loss prevention officers.
How to use this template
Tips for customising the job description for your retail security operation
Add your company details
Include your business name, store locations, retail sector (fashion, electronics, department store) and a brief description of your loss prevention program.
Specify work arrangements
Clarify whether the role is plain clothes or uniformed, single store or multi-site, and the expected shift patterns including weekends.
Detail technology requirements
Specify the CCTV systems, EAS systems, and any specialized software or technology the officer will use for surveillance and reporting.
Include apprehension policy
Reference your company's specific policies on apprehension, detention procedures, police liaison and prosecution protocols.
Add reporting structure
Clarify reporting lines to security management, store management and any matrix reporting to regional loss prevention teams.
Review regularly
Update the job description when theft patterns change, new technology is introduced or when your loss prevention strategy evolves.
Legal disclaimer
This template is designed to reflect Australian workplace standards and security industry practices at the time of publication. It is provided as a general guide only and does not constitute legal advice.
You should review and tailor this template to suit your business, security operations and specific requirements. Confirm the applicable modern award for your business and ensure compliance with all relevant employment laws, security licensing requirements and workplace safety standards. For complex situations, seek independent legal or HR advice.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about loss prevention officer job descriptions, qualifications and employment in Australian retail security
- Loss prevention officers specialise in preventing theft and shrinkage in retail environments, focusing on monitoring customer and staff behaviour. Security guards provide broader security services across various settings. Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020 (MA000016), loss prevention officers are classified based on their duties and level of responsibility.
- Loss prevention officers are covered by the Security Services Industry Award 2020 (MA000016). This award sets minimum pay rates, penalty rates and conditions for employees working in security services including loss prevention. Always verify which award applies to your specific security business.
- Under the Security Services Industry Award 2020, loss prevention officers are typically classified at Level 2 or Level 3 depending on their experience and responsibilities. Higher levels apply for senior loss prevention officers and supervisors. See our Security Services Award rates guide for current classifications.
- While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates and sets clear expectations. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Award rates plus penalties' or 'Competitive rates based on experience.' Check the Security Services Industry Award 2020 for current rates.
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Learn moreAward pay rates
Current pay rates, penalty rates and allowances under the Security Services Industry Award 2020.
View ratesRegulatory sources
This job description is aligned with Australian workplace award requirements.
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Disclaimer
This document is a general job description template provided for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and may not reflect the latest changes in legislation or apply to every workplace situation. RosterElf Pty Ltd and the template provider accept no liability for any loss arising from reliance on this document. Users should seek independent legal advice and customise the template to ensure it complies with all relevant laws, awards and workplace requirements.