Installation, maintenance and repair
Security and fire alarm systems installers
Install, program, maintain, and repair security and fire alarm wiring and equipment. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes.
Median pay
$60,070
Growth to 2035
+7%
faster than average
Openings a year
8,500
Time to qualify*
6 months
* From a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field.
Pay
Security and fire alarm systems installers
Getting in
- Typical entry education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- On-the-job training
- Moderate-term on-the-job training
- Prior experience
- None
Calculate your switch to security and fire alarm systems installers
What the work is like
Dealing with the public
Unpleasant or angry people
Time pressure
Cost of a mistake
Freedom to make decisions
Repeating the same tasks
Time sitting
Time standing
Outdoors in all weather
Hazardous conditions
Exposure to disease
Security and fire alarm systems installers: 57% usually work over 40 hours a week
Core tasks
- 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.
Also called: Alarm Technician · Fire Alarm Technician (Fire Alarm Tech) · Home Security Alarm Installer · Install Technician · Installation Technician · Installer · Security Installation Technician · Security Installer
Outlook and AI
Security and fire alarm systems installers held 86,300 jobs in 2025. BLS projects 92,100 by 2035 (+7%, faster than average; all jobs: +3.5%).
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