Security and fire alarm systems installers
SOC Code: 49-2098Also known as:
Access Control Technician, Alarm Adjuster, Alarm Installation Tech (Alarm Installation Technician), Alarm Installer, Alarm Service Tech (Alarm Service Technician)
Median Annual Salary
$59,300
+10.4% growth (2024-2034)
9K
Openings/Year
86K
Current Jobs
What Security and fire alarm systems installers Do
Install, program, maintain, and repair security and fire alarm wiring and equipment. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes.
💰 Salary
$59,300
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+10.4%
Much faster than average
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
9K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
85,900
Projected Employment (2034)
94,900
Related Careers
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-4.6% growth
Telecommunications equipment installers and repairers, except line installers
$62,630 •
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Electrical and electronics installers and repairers, transportation equipment
$82,730 •
+6.1% growth
Electrical and electronics repairers, commercial and industrial equipment
$71,300 •
-0.8% growth
Electronic equipment installers and repairers, motor vehicles
$47,940 •
-13.6% growth
Top Skills Required
Speaking
Critical Thinking
Installation
Active Listening
Reading Comprehension
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Install, maintain, or repair security systems, alarm devices, or related equipment, following blueprints of electrical layouts and building plans.
- Mount and fasten control panels, door and window contacts, sensors, or video cameras, and attach electrical and telephone wiring to connect components.
- Demonstrate systems for customers and explain details, such as the causes and consequences of false alarms.
- Test and repair circuits and sensors, following wiring and system specifications.
- Feed cables through access holes, roof spaces, or cavity walls to reach fixture outlets, positioning and terminating cables, wires, or strapping.
- Examine systems to locate problems, such as loose connections or broken insulation.
- Test backup batteries, keypad programming, sirens, or other security features to ensure proper functioning or to diagnose malfunctions.
- Drill holes for wiring in wall studs, joists, ceilings, or floors.
- Inspect installation sites and study work orders, building plans, and installation manuals to determine materials requirements and installation procedures.
- Consult with clients to assess risks and to determine security requirements.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
Post-Secondary Certificate
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Security and fire alarm systems installers
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a security and fire alarm systems installers:
Electrician
30,349 degrees awarded •
494 colleges offer this program
Security System Installation, Repair, and Inspection Technology/Technician
42 degrees awarded •
3 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Security and fire alarm systems installers
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become security and fire alarm systems installers.
Want this ranking as a spreadsheet? Investor Pro+ members can export any Repit table to CSV. See plans →
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do security and fire alarm systems installers make?
The median annual salary for security and fire alarm systems installers is $59,300.
What education do security and fire alarm systems installers need?
Most security and fire alarm systems installers positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Common degree programs include Electrician, Security System Installation, Repair, and Inspection Technology/Technician.
Is becoming security and fire alarm systems installers a good career choice?
Security and fire alarm systems installers is projected to see +10.4% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is much faster than average for all occupations. With approximately 9,400 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for security and fire alarm systems installers?
Top colleges for aspiring security and fire alarm systems installers include
Polytech Adult Education, Elizabethtown Community and Technical College, Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College, Somerset Community College, Ashland Community and Technical College.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to security and fire alarm systems installers?
Security and fire alarm systems installers may also be known as: Access Control Technician, Alarm Adjuster, Alarm Installation Tech (Alarm Installation Technician), Alarm Installer, Alarm Service Tech (Alarm Service Technician), Alarm Technician, Burglar Alarm Inspector, Burglar Alarm Installer, Burglar Alarm Mechanic, Control Systems Technician, Electrical Fire Alarm Inspector, Electrical Fire Alarm Repairer, Electronic Fire Control Systems Mechanic, Electronics Technician, Fire Alarm Inspection Test Maintenance Technician, Fire Alarm Installer, Fire Alarm Mechanic, Fire Alarm Service Tech (Fire Alarm Service Technician), Fire Alarm Systems Tech (Fire Alarm Systems Technician), Fire Alarm Technician.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.