Security systems installer

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly
• specialist courses

Entry requirements:

College

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:

• 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

Apprenticeship

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:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

DirectApplication

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.

OtherRoutes

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.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• 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
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• knowledge of building and construction
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to work well with your hands
• the ability to read English
• active listening skills
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• concentration skills

What you'll do:

Security systems installers fit and service electronic systems that detect intruders or manage access to buildings.

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

Location : You could work at a client's home or at a client's business.
Environment : Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time and at height.

Salary:

Starter : £19,000
Experienced : £35,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

41 - 43 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends / bank holidays on a rota

Career Path:

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