In the Air Force:
Electrical Systems; Electrical Systems Apprentice; Electrical Systems Craftsman; Electrical Systems Helper; Electrical Systems Journeyman; Facility Systems Manager; Facility Systems Superintendent; Infrastructure Systems Superintendent
When a building fire breaks out, or a burglar breaks in, the people involved want to be alerted as soon as possible. Security and fire alarm systems installers ensure that alarm systems operate correctly and provide the margin of time that home and business owners need to set emergency procedures in motion and prevent major damage. Installers use electrical layouts from blueprints and building plans to connect sensors, video cameras, and control panels into the electrical system of the building, making sure that fires or burglars are unable to escape detection. They mount wiring, program the system, test circuits, and install backup batteries, to create an airtight security or fire prevention system. Customer service and communication skills are important, as installers frequently work in customers’ homes, and need to understand the unique aspects of a property or of owners’ habits. Home and commercial security firms are the predominant employer for security and fire alarm systems installers. A high school education is typically required, and many installers have a related technical credential.
What they do:
Install, program, maintain, and repair security and fire alarm wiring and equipment. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes.
On the job, you would:
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.
Safety and Government
public safety and security
Engineering and Technology
computers and electronics
building and construction
Business
customer service
Communications
telecommunications
Basic Skills
talking to others
thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
Problem Solving
noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Hand and Finger Use
hold or move items with your hands
keep your arm or hand steady
Verbal
listen and understand what people say
communicate by speaking
Ideas and Logic
notice when problems happen
order or arrange things
People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
Dependability
Integrity
Attention to Detail
Independence
Self Control
Stress Tolerance
You might use software like this on the job:
Operating system software
Microsoft operating system
Microsoft Windows
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
certificate after high school or high school diploma/GED usually needed