Surveillance, 24-hour service, deliveries and more. Finding reliable, well-paying jobs in surveillance, 24-hour service, and delivery has become increasingly popular across the country. Whether you’re searching for a night shift to fit your schedule or looking for a long-term career in logistics or private security, there are thousands of companies hiring right now—with competitive pay and low entry barriers.
How Much Can You Earn? Salary is a big driver for people choosing these sectors. Here are average pay rates based on current industry data in the U.S.:
Salary is a big driver for people choosing these sectors. Here are average pay rates based on current industry data in the U.S.:
- Surveillance/Security Guard: $16–$25 per hour
- Delivery Driver (Local): $17–$30 per hour, plus tips in some companies
- 24-Hour Gas Station Attendant: $14–$18 per hour
- Overnight Stocker/Warehouse Support: $16–$22 per hour
Overtime, bonuses for overnight work, and holiday pay are common. Some companies offer health benefits, paid time off, and even tuition assistance after a probation period. Surveillance, 24-hour service, deliveries and more.
How to Apply for These Jobs the Right Way
If you want to apply fast and increase your chances of being hired, here’s what matters most. Surveillance, 24-hour service, deliveries and more.
What Qualifications Do You Need?
Most roles in these sectors do not require advanced education, but qualifications may include:
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid driver’s license (for delivery jobs)
- Ability to pass a drug test and background check
- State-issued security license (for surveillance roles; requirements vary by state)
In some cases, companies provide paid training or help you get licensed after being hired.
How to Stand Out in a Competitive Field
Even though these roles are accessible, standing out can land you better positions, faster promotions, and higher pay.
Certifications That Help
While not required, the following certifications can make your application more attractive:
- Security Guard Card (varies by state)
- CPR/First Aid Certification
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) if interested in high-paying delivery or transportation roles
- OSHA Safety Certification for warehouse positions
Check with local training centers or online programs like Coursera or edX to access affordable options.
Customize Your Resume for the Role
Employers scan resumes fast. Tailor yours with keywords from the job description and highlight:
- Experience in fast-paced environments
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work under pressure or independently
- Punctuality and reliability
Even informal experience, like helping family with a small delivery business, can count—just frame it professionally.
What Employers Are Really Looking For in These Roles
Employers in surveillance, delivery, and 24-hour services often deal with tight schedules, valuable goods, and customer satisfaction metrics. That means they’re not just looking for someone to show up—they want people who can perform under pressure, stay consistent, and bring value to the team.
Soft Skills Matter More Than You Think
If you think only licenses and availability matter, think again. Many hiring managers emphasize soft skills in interviews and evaluations:
- Communication – Especially important for security guards and delivery drivers dealing with clients or the public.
- Time management – Late deliveries or missed security rounds can cost clients and contracts.
- Integrity and accountability – You’ll often work unsupervised during off-hours.
- Customer service mindset – Especially vital in overnight gas stations, delivery drop-offs, or retail surveillance.
These skills can make the difference between staying in an entry-level role and quickly moving into a team lead or supervisor position.
Work Environments and Schedules
Before applying, know what you’re signing up for. Here’s what a typical schedule might look like:
- Surveillance roles: Often 8- or 12-hour shifts; rotating weekends; outdoor and indoor posts.
- Delivery roles: Shifts can vary from early morning to late night; includes holidays; may involve heavy lifting.
- Warehouse or overnight stocking: Usually 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.; fast-paced; may require standing for long periods.
- Gas station attendants (24-hour services): Solo or with small teams; routine cleaning and restocking duties; frequent customer interactions.
If you’re a night owl, these roles can offer financial and lifestyle benefits not found in traditional 9–5 jobs.
Career Growth and Stability: Not Just Temporary Jobs
Many workers enter these fields expecting a short-term gig, only to find long-term career paths with real upward mobility.
Growth Opportunities in Surveillance
Private security firms often promote from within. Starting as a guard can lead to:
- Shift supervisor
- Site coordinator
- Operations manager
- Client services roles or scheduling coordinators
These higher roles typically pay $45,000–$70,000/year and come with added benefits. Certifications, years of service, and internal referrals speed up promotions.
Advancing in Delivery Services
If you start with local delivery jobs (Instacart, Amazon Flex, etc.), you can eventually move into:
- Route planner/logistics coordinator
- Fleet management
- Dispatcher roles
- CDL long-haul delivery (higher pay and benefits)
Companies like UPS and FedEx are known to promote drivers into administrative and operational roles after just a few years of solid performance.
Create a Daily Job Search Routine
Job hunting is a job in itself. Set aside time every morning or evening to check listings. Use alerts on sites like ZipRecruiter or LinkedIn Jobs to get instant updates.
Apply Smart, Not Just Fast
- Don’t shotgun your resume to 50 postings.
- Pick 5–10 per day that match your location, schedule, and experience.
- Take 5 minutes per job to tweak your resume or write a quick custom message if the platform allows.
Even small personalization can increase your chances of getting noticed.
Get Referrals or Recommendations
If you know someone working in a company you’re applying to—even if it’s distant—ask them for a referral. Most employers prioritize internal recommendations, especially for roles involving trust and independence like surveillance or delivery.
Best Training and Certifications to Boost Your Resume
Even though some of these jobs don’t require college degrees, getting the right certification can place you ahead of dozens of other candidates.
For Surveillance and Security Jobs
- Guard Card (varies by state) – Required in states like California and New York. Often offered through licensed training schools or online.
- CPR and First Aid Certification – Many employers prefer guards who are trained in emergency response.
- Firearm Permit (for armed security) – Needed for specific roles, usually after basic training and a background check.
- Loss Prevention Training – Retailers and malls value this certification for undercover surveillance positions.
For Delivery Jobs
- DOT Medical Card – Needed for any commercial delivery work across state lines.
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) – Offers access to higher-paying roles in trucking and long-distance delivery.
- Defensive Driving Certification – Boosts credibility, especially for insurance and fleet safety.
Warehouse and 24-Hour Service Roles
- Forklift Operator Certification – Required in many night-shift warehouse roles.
- OSHA 10 or 30-Hour Training – Shows you’re trained in safety standards.
- Retail Customer Service Training – Many platforms like Coursera and Alison offer free or low-cost certifications.
What to Expect in the Hiring Process
Knowing what’s ahead makes the process less stressful and more strategic.
Application to Interview Timeline
- Delivery and warehouse jobs: Often move fast—application to first day can take as little as 48–72 hours.
- Security jobs: Slower due to background checks, licensing, and training. It may take 1–3 weeks.
- Retail night-shift roles: Typically involve two interviews—one with a supervisor, another with HR or the store manager.
Common Interview Questions to Prepare For
- “How do you handle working independently during overnight shifts?”
- “Tell me about a time you solved a problem under pressure.”
- “How do you handle fatigue or staying focused during long shifts?”
Be ready with real examples. Employers want to know you’re dependable and alert, especially in roles that involve security or solo work.
Tips to Keep the Job and Grow Your Reputation
Once you land the job, it’s not just about showing up—it’s about building a career. In 24-hour industries, dependability is king. Showing up on time and ready to work consistently leads to better shifts, promotions, and referrals. Whether it’s scanning software for deliveries, camera systems for surveillance, or inventory systems for stocking, learn how to use the tools fast. Being tech-savvy makes you a valuable team member.
Wrapping Up: Get Started Today
Surveillance, delivery, and 24-hour service jobs are not just side hustles. With the right approach, they can be your stepping stone to financial stability and long-term success.
If you’re ready to start applying:
- Visit Indeed for up-to-date job listings.
- Prepare a clean, simple resume highlighting your availability, relevant experience, and certifications.
- Be proactive: check jobs daily, follow up after applications, and stay ready for quick interview requests.
Whether you’re looking for stability, extra income, or a career change, this field offers options that fit every schedule—and real opportunities to grow.
