Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers

SOC code 49-2098 · O*NET-SOC 49-2098.00 · Medium preparation needed · Skilled trades

Bright Outlook — O*NET expects rapid growth for this occupation

Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$60,070

a year

Hourly

$28.88

per hour

10th$38,800Median$60,07090th$81,150

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$60,960

$29.31 per hour

Middle 50%

$47,820 – $73,690

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$38,800 – $81,150

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

86,340

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $38,800; $18.65/hr
25th percentile: $47,820; $22.99/hr
Median percentile: $60,070; $28.88/hr
75th percentile: $73,690; $35.43/hr
90th percentile: $81,150; $39.01/hr

What do security and fire alarm systems installers do?

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

The tasks that matter most day to day

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.

How to qualify for this work

Most people in this role hold post-secondary certificate — 49% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 3 — Medium preparation needed

Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Experience: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

See all zone 3 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

Post-Secondary Certificate49%
High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)41%
Some College Courses8%
Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree2%

Common questions

How much does a security and fire alarm systems installers earn?

The national median is $60,070 a year. The full range runs from $38,800 at the 10th percentile to $81,150 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a security and fire alarm systems installers without a degree?

Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 3, meaning the typical entry route is most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Speaking3.4/5
Critical Thinking3.4/5
Active Listening3.3/5
Reading Comprehension3.1/5
Monitoring3.0/5

Knowledge areas

Public Safety and Security4.1/5
Computers and Electronics3.7/5
Customer and Personal Service3.6/5
Telecommunications3.6/5
Building and Construction3.3/5
Engineering and Technology3.1/5
English Language3.1/5
Mechanical3.1/5

Transferable strengths: Installation, Complex Problem Solving, Operations Monitoring, Quality Control Analysis, Judgment and Decision Making.