What is an LPO?
A Covert Loss Prevention Officer (LPO) is part of a security team operating in a retail store. They are an essential in the fight against organised retail crime, general shop stealing and criminal offences. In today’s society they are also pivotal in preventing terrorism through using terrorism awareness skills.
This is achieved by the LPO proactively patrolling a retail store looking to detect persons who are displaying behaviours that are precursors to committing thief of items from the store.
Unlike other in-store security guards, they do not wear a uniform, instead they are dressed as a normal shopper to blend into the environment that they are working in.
Covert operations are a diverse role. As an LPO you get to interact with all types of people, from general shoppers right up to and including combined operations with Police.
Training
Training as an LPO provides you with skills in the following:
- Surveillance and counter surveillance.
- Identifying behavioural ques that are used by persons with intent to steal or commit terrorist actions.
- High levels of report writing skills.
- High levels of communication skills.
- Interacting with the latest up to date technology in the form of data bases and CCTV.
- Dress and bearing to operate covertly in a retail setting.
- The ability to disseminate information in a fluid and dynamic environment.
- Managing persons who may have a mental or medical health issue.
- Managing person who may be intoxicated or under the influence of an illicit substance.
- Arrest and apprehension (Use of Force) techniques above and beyond what is taught in the Certificate II Security Operations course.
Training is a combination of online and face to face training at our dedicated training facility and training in a workplace setting.
All successful candidates are issued with a Statement of Attendance that is recorded on our internal database.
The benefits
- Work in a retail setting, no outdoor work in extreme weather conditions.
- Generally business hours, no late nights.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Be part of a team that is proactive in crime prevention.
Eligibility requirements to become an LPO.
- Must have a current first aid certificate HLTAID011 and HLTAID009 Refresher within the last 12 months.
- Must have a valid security licence with ‘Security Guard/Unarmed guard and crowd controller’ endorsement. Control room operator endorsement and advantage.
- Must have high levels of communication skills.
- Must be able to write detailed reports that could be viewed by Senior staff and Police.
- Must be able to remain calm under pressure.
- Be able to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures relevant to a retail setting.
How do I apply?
To become an LPO, you can click the link below!
