Security / Fire Alarm Installer

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

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Alarm Technician; Fire Alarm Technician (Fire Alarm Tech); Home Security Alarm Installer; Install Technician; Installation Technician; Installer; Security Installation Technician; Security Installer; Security Technician (Security Tech); Service Technician

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.
• 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.
• Mount raceways and conduits and fasten wires to wood framing, using staplers.
• Adjust sensitivity of units, based on room structures and manufacturers' recommendations, using programming keypads.
• Keep informed of new products and developments.
• Order replacement parts.

Knowledge

• Public Safety and Security
• Computers and Electronics
• Customer and Personal Service
• Telecommunications
• Building and Construction
• Engineering and Technology
• Mechanical
• English Language
• Education and Training

Skills

• Speaking
• Critical Thinking
• Active Listening
• Reading Comprehension
• Monitoring

Abilities

• Oral Comprehension
• Problem Sensitivity
• Oral Expression
• Near Vision
• Deductive Reasoning
• Information Ordering
• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Manual Dexterity
• Inductive Reasoning
• Category Flexibility
• Visualization
• Finger Dexterity
• Multilimb Coordination
• Extent Flexibility
• Speech Recognition
• Speech Clarity
• Written Comprehension
• Written Expression
• Perceptual Speed
• Control Precision
• Far Vision