Security systems installer
Security systems installers fit and service electronic systems that detect intruders or manage access to buildings.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a security systems installer you could:
- discuss security plans with customers
- install security systems and equipment
- test systems, find faults and fix them
- show customers how to use their equipment
- offer support for existing systems
Working environment
You could work at a client's home or at a client's business.
Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time and at height.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could:
- manage a team of installers and sales assistants
- specialise in an area, such as designing new security systems
- set up your own security systems company
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- practical skills for installing equipment
- customer service skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work on your own
- to be flexible and open to change
- knowledge of public safety and security
- broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
- problem-solving skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Restrictions and Requirements
You'll need to:
- have a full driving licence
- pass security checks
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- specialist courses
To become a security systems installer, you could take a college course like:
- Level 3 Diploma in Providing Electronic Fire and Security Systems
- Level 3 Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- T Level in Building Services Engineering for Construction
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
More Information
You could complete a Fire Emergency and Security Systems Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
You could also do a Smart Home Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship. This apprenticeship teaches you how to install and set up 'smart' security systems in homes.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More Information
You can apply directly to employers if you've got experience in electrical or electronics work.
Employers might expect you to have GCSEs or similar qualifications in English, maths, science and a technical subject.
You could study to become a security systems installer with a private training organisation.
The National Security Inspectorate and British Security Industry Association list private training providers.
Further information
You can find out more about working in the security industry from the British Security Industry Association.
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This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.