Retail Loss Prevention Specialists
Retail Loss Prevention Specialists implement systems and procedures to prevent merchandise theft and loss in retail environments. They conduct audits and investigations into employee activity, identify vulnerabilities in security practices, and may help develop policies to protect company assets. Most work in retail stores, warehouses, or corporate offices.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against retail loss prevention specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves reviewing surveillance footage, analyzing sales and inventory discrepancies, and conducting interviews with staff members. Specialists audit store procedures to identify security gaps, prepare incident reports, and document findings. They may visit multiple locations to inspect security systems, observe floor operations, and implement loss prevention training. Administrative work includes compiling data and presenting recommendations to management.
Who this work suits
Holland code CER. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to be methodical and detail-oriented, comfortable following established procedures and systems. You're also oriented toward business results and moving up in an organization, making you effective at proposing improvements to security processes and policies that protect profitability.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | $71,640 | $88,960 | $96,970 | 90 |
| District of Columbia | $76,900 | $88,570 | $103,270 | 80 |
| Alabama | $43,950 | $86,350 | $99,340 | 330 |
| New Mexico | $41,820 | $64,940 | $101,480 | 650 |
| Wisconsin | $39,270 | $57,620 | $71,410 | 910 |
| Vermont | $44,980 | $57,490 | $73,110 | 60 |
| Hawaii | $46,990 | $57,370 | $82,930 | 110 |
| Alaska | $45,590 | $56,120 | $58,860 | 400 |
| New Jersey | $37,790 | $54,950 | $74,050 | 3,520 |
| Nevada | $40,330 | $54,790 | $62,280 | 910 |
| Rhode Island | $41,910 | $54,630 | $69,200 | 60 |
| North Dakota | $46,700 | $53,460 | $63,130 | 230 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Loss Prevention Qualified (LPQ) — Loss Prevention Foundation
- Loss Prevention Certified (LPC) — Loss Prevention Foundation
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against retail loss prevention specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 33-9099.02 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.