📅 2026 Update: Changes in Employment Law and Practices

Since the original article was published, there have been notable changes in U.S. employment law and practices that affect hiring and firing. The most significant update is a Supreme Court ruling that impacts affirmative action in hiring. This update outlines these changes, along with current costs and best practices for employers and job seekers.

⚖️ 2025 Supreme Court Ruling on Affirmative Action

In June 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in *Students for Fair Admissions v. President & Fellows of Harvard College*.

The ruling stated that race-based affirmative action in college admissions violates the Equal Protection Clause. This decision may influence how employers approach diversity initiatives in recruitment and hiring, leading many to reassess their practices.

💵 E-Verify Enrollment Fee Update

As of October 2026, employers can enroll in E-Verify without any fee. This federal system helps verify the employment eligibility of new hires. The removal of the enrollment fee may encourage more employers to participate in this program, ensuring compliance with hiring laws.

🗓️ Form I-9 Completion Guidelines

Employers must complete Form I-9 within three business days of a new hire's start date. This form is essential for verifying identity and employment authorization. It is available for download on the U.S.

Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.

⏱️ E-Verify Response Time

E-Verify generally provides a response within seconds after a case is created. However, some cases may take longer for further verification. This quick turnaround can help employers confirm the eligibility of new employees more efficiently.

📅 Key Points Summary

  • ⚖️ 2025 Supreme Court ruling affects diversity hiring initiatives.
  • 💵 E-Verify enrollment is now free for employers.
  • 🗓️ Form I-9 must be completed within three business days.
  • ⏱️ E-Verify usually responds within seconds, but some cases may take longer.
  • 🏢 Employers should revisit their hiring practices to ensure compliance.

💡 Tips for Navigating Employment Law Changes

Review your specific situation with an attorney to understand how these changes might affect you.

📝 Understand E-Verify Requirements

Employers should familiarize themselves with the E-Verify system. While it is voluntary for most, certain federal contractors and employers in specific states are required to use it. Knowing your obligations can help avoid legal issues.

📄 Complete Form I-9 Promptly

Make sure to complete Form I-9 within the required three business days of hiring. This is a crucial step in verifying the identity and employment authorization of new hires.

🧐 Avoid Discriminatory Practices

Employers must not implement hiring policies that negatively affect applicants based on race, sex, religion, or other protected categories. Assess your hiring practices to ensure they comply with non-discriminatory policies.

📋 Use EEOC Resources

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) provides free resources on non-discriminatory hiring practices. Utilize these resources to ensure your hiring process is compliant with federal laws.

👩‍💼 Implement Best Practices in Job Postings

Avoid language in job postings that is unjustifiably discriminatory, such as requiring U.S. citizenship unless legally necessary. This helps create a more inclusive environment for all applicants.

📅 Stay Updated on Legal Changes

Employment laws can change frequently. Keeping informed about legal updates is vital to ensure compliance and to protect your business or rights as an employee.

🏆 Services for Employment Practices Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section highlights services related to employment practices, such as job platforms and compliance solutions. The order follows user reviews from Trustpilot as of October 2026. Ratings may change over time, and it's essential to consider various factors when choosing a service.

🥇 1. Sleek.com

Sleek.com has been rated 4.5 stars. It is known for its company formation services and corporate compliance solutions. However, some users have reported issues with response times and handling urgent requests, which may affect timely service delivery.

🥈 2. ZipRecruiter

ZipRecruiter holds a Trustpilot score of 4.4. It offers an online employment marketplace with AI-driven smart matching technology. Some reviewers have mentioned challenges with customer support responsiveness, which could impact user experience.

🥉 3. Upwork

Upwork averages 4.2 stars. It serves as a freelance job platform, providing a wide range of job categories. Users have noted issues with platform fees and dispute resolution, which can complicate the hiring process for both freelancers and employers.

4️⃣ Monster

Monster has a Trustpilot score of 4.1. It is recognized as a job search engine that offers resume-building tools. However, some users have pointed out issues with job relevance and outdated listings, which could hinder effective job searches.

5️⃣ HireRight

HireRight has a low rating of 1.1. It is known for background screening services and compliance solutions. Numerous complaints about customer service and the accuracy of reports have raised concerns among users.

🆓 Free Government Resources

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) provides free guidance on non-discriminatory hiring practices. Additionally, the U.S.

Department of Labor (DOL) offers free resources to help employers comply with employment laws, including those on hiring and wages.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing Employment Services

  • 📈 User ratings and reviews
  • 🕒 Response times for support
  • 💼 Range of services offered
  • 🛠️ Compliance with employment laws
  • 📋 User experience with the platform

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🤔 What is E-Verify?

E-Verify is a federal system used by employers to verify the employment eligibility of new hires. It compares information from Form I-9 to government records.

📜 How can I ensure non-discriminatory hiring practices?

To ensure non-discriminatory hiring, familiarize yourself with EEOC guidelines and avoid policies that negatively impact any protected group unless necessary for the job.

🔍 What should I do if I suspect wrongful termination?

If you believe you've been wrongfully terminated, document your experiences and consult with an attorney to explore your options.

🚀 How can I improve my chances of getting hired?

To enhance your job prospects, tailor your resume for each position, network within your industry, and continuously develop your skills.

📅 What is the deadline for completing Form I-9?

Employers must complete Form I-9 within three business days of a new hire's start date to verify their identity and employment authorization.

🔧 Where can I find resources on employment law?

Free resources about employment law can be found through the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the U.S. Department of Labor.

⚖️ Recent Cases Impacting Employment Law

Recent court rulings, including the 2025 Supreme Court decision on affirmative action, directly affect hiring practices in the workplace. These decisions emphasize the need for employers to carefully evaluate their recruitment strategies.

For more insights on recent rulings, check out more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Security Jobs: Exploring the Growing Career Field


The field of security jobs is rapidly growing, as companies and organizations seek to protect their assets and personnel from both physical and digital threats. Security jobs encompass a wide range of roles, from traditional security guard positions to cybersecurity experts. In this article, we'll explore the various types of security jobs available, the qualifications required for these positions, and where to find security job opportunities.

Types of Security Jobs

Security jobs encompass a wide range of positions that can be broken down into different categories. Here are some examples of the various types of security jobs:

Physical Security: Physical security is concerned with protecting physical assets and personnel through various measures such as access control, surveillance, and security patrols. Examples of physical security jobs include security guards, loss prevention specialists, and personal bodyguards.

Cybersecurity: As digital threats become more prevalent, the need for cybersecurity experts is growing. Cybersecurity jobs are focused on protecting digital assets, including information and technology systems. Examples of cybersecurity jobs include security analysts, penetration testers, and network security engineers.

Security Jobs

Investigations: The investigation is a field of security jobs that includes roles such as private investigators and internal investigators. These roles are focused on investigating potential threats, such as fraud, theft, or other criminal activity.

Emergency Management: Emergency management security jobs are focused on preparing for and responding to emergencies, such as natural disasters or terrorist attacks. These roles include emergency managers, disaster preparedness specialists, and crisis management professionals.

Qualifications Required for Security Jobs

The qualifications required for security jobs vary depending on the type of position. Here are some examples of the qualifications that may be required for different types of security jobs:

Physical Security: Physical security jobs such as security guards typically do not require a college degree, but may require completion of a formal training program and state licensure. Security guards must also pass background checks and drug tests.

Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity jobs often require a college degree in a related field such as computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity. Certifications such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) may also be required for certain positions.

Investigations: Investigative security jobs often require a degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field. Private investigators must also obtain state licensure.

Emergency Management: Emergency management security jobs may require a degree in emergency management or a related field, as well as certification in emergency management or disaster preparedness.

📝 See Also

Where to Find Security Job Opportunities

There are many resources for finding security job opportunities. Here are some examples:

Job Boards: There are numerous job boards, both general and specialized, that are dedicated to advertising security job opportunities. Some of the most popular job boards for security jobs include Indeed, Glassdoor, and CyberSN.

Networking: Networking is an effective way to find job opportunities in the security field. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people in the industry to learn about job openings.

Recruitment Agencies: Recruitment agencies can connect job seekers with potential employers in the security field. These agencies can help match candidates with job openings that fit their skills and qualifications.

Government Resources: The federal government employs thousands of security professionals in various fields. The Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense, and Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) are just a few examples of government agencies that may have security job openings available.

Salary Expectations for Security Jobs

The salary expectations for security jobs can vary widely depending on the type of position, the level of experience, and the industry. Here are some examples of the average salaries for different types of security jobs:

Physical Security: The average salary for a security guard is around $29,000 per year, but this can vary depending on factors such as location and experience. Loss prevention specialists can earn an average salary of around $40,000 per year.

Cybersecurity: The average salary for cybersecurity professionals can range from $75,000 per year for entry-level positions to over $150,000 per year for more senior positions such as chief information security officers.

Investigations: The average salary for a private investigator is around $50,000 per year, but this can vary depending on client demand and level of experience.

Emergency Management: The average salary for emergency management professionals can vary widely depending on the industry. The average salary for an emergency manager in government is around $70,000 per year, while emergency management positions in healthcare or transportation can earn upwards of $100,000 per year.

Conclusion

The field of security jobs is rapidly growing, creating a range of career opportunities for the security-minded individual. Whether you're interested in physical security, cybersecurity, investigations, or emergency management, there are numerous jobs available with varying education and experience requirements. By networking, using job boards, and exploring government resources, you can find the security job that's right for you and start your career in this growing field.

How to Get Security Jobs

Security jobs are very widespread due to the variety of employers available. One of the most common positions held is a security guard or security officer who patrols and inspects an area in order to protect it against theft, terrorism, fire, vandalism, and other illegal activity. Their objective in many security jobs is to enforce the laws and prevent criminal activity within an employer’s property.

Depending on the employer, the responsibilities within security jobs can vary. Some examples include

• Department Stores

o Protecting merchandise, money, equipment people

o Theft prevention by a customer or employee, apprehend and detain suspects before police arrive

• Office buildings, hospitals, banks

o Protect the staff, customers, and properties

o Maintain order

• Sea, rail, air terminals, and other transportation facilities

o Protect cargo, property, equipment, and people

o Screen visitors or passengers for dangerous objects such as explosives or weapons

o Prevent theft

o Observe for criminals or suspicious behavior

• Public buildings such as art galleries or museums

o Protect exhibits

• Government buildings, data processing centers, factories, laboratories, military bases

o Protect information, computer codes, defense secrets, or products

• Sports Stadiums, universities, or parks

o Supervise parking or seating, crowed control, direct traffic

• Gaming Surveillance Officers

o Work for casinos where they observe casino operations to prevent theft, cheating, and to ensure compliance with laws and regulations

• Armored Car Guards

o Protect valuables and money during transit

Training for Security Jobs

While there are often no specific education requirements, many jobs prefer those with a high school diploma or some sort of certification. Most positions often have on the job training, which can be more or less rigorous depending on the employer, such as those who are armed guards. Security jobs that require heavy security often provide extensive formal training for their employees, for example, for those in position at a nuclear power plant.

Most states require some sort of licensing for security jobs. The requirements often include being at least 18 years old, passing a background check, passing many drug tests, and having the proper classroom training, and other licensing and certification depending on position. Many states also require ongoing training in order to retain a license for different security jobs.

Employment prospects for Security Jobs

While some of the higher paying jobs can be competitive, security jobs are quite favorable, as job openings are growing more quickly than the average employment growth. Between 2008 and 2018 there is an expected 14% growth in the field with about 152,500 new jobs projected. Not only are full time jobs available, but many part time jobs are opening up, which is attractive for those seeking part time work or second jobs.

The median annual wages for security jobs in May 2008 were $23,460. These median values varied depending on the field:

• Local government: $27,660

• Traveler accommodation: $25,660

• Medical and surgical hospitals: $29,020

• Elementary and secondary schools: $27,980

• Investigation and security services: $22,170

More information on security jobs can be found through local security firms and guard firms, as well as through State employment service offices. Licensing information can also be found through the State police department or the State licensing commission.  Information on local jurisdiction’s licensing requirements can also be found through a local government authority.