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Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers

Wages
In 2015, the average annual wage in a Alabama was $36,870 with most people making betweeen $21,640 and $56,460
Wages by Industry
  • vestigation and Security Services $39,900.00
  • Building Equipment Contractors $42,320.00
  • Electrical and Electronic Goods Merchant Wholesalers $44,830.00
  • Miscellaneous Durable Goods Merchant Wholesalers $33,070.00
  • Machinery, Equipment, and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers $46,860.00
Education Required
Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Common Majors
  • Electrician
  • Security System Installation, Repair, and Inspection Technology/Technician
About the job

Install, program, maintain, or repair security or fire alarm wiring and equipment. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes.

What you'll do
    • Adjust sensitivity of units, based on room structures and manufacturers’ recommendations, using programming keypads.
    • Consult with clients to assess risks and to determine security requirements.
    • Demonstrate systems for customers and explain details, such as the causes and consequences of false alarms.
    • Drill holes for wiring in wall studs, joists, ceilings, or floors.
    • Keep informed of new products and developments.
    • Mount raceways and conduits and fasten wires to wood framing, using staplers.
    • Order replacement parts.
    • Prepare documents, such as invoices or warranties.
    • Provide customers with cost estimates for equipment installation.
    • Test and repair circuits and sensors, following wiring and system specifications.
Things you need to know
    • Computers and Electronics – Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
    • Customer and Personal Service – Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
    • Public Safety and Security – Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
    • Building and Construction – Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
    • English Language – Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Abilities you'll need to have
    • Critical Thinking – Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
    • Active Listening – Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
    • Operation Monitoring – Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
    • Reading Comprehension – Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
    • Speaking – Talking to others to convey information effectively.
    • Monitoring – Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
    • Installation – Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.