Security Alarm Installer

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:

• 2006 NOC: Electronic Service Technicians (Household and Business Equipment) (2242) 
• 2006 NOC-S: Electronic Service Technicians (Household and Business Equipment) (C142) 
• 2011 NOC: Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment) (2242) 
• 2016 NOC: Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment) (2242) 

Security alarm systems may include motion sensors and other types of intruder and alarm devices. They may be wired or wireless. In general, security alarm installers lay out wiring routes, cut openings in walls, floors, and frames, mount raceways or conduits, and pull wires through and splice them. They also:

• Check the installation site, read the work order, and check drawings to determine locations for specified equipment
• Program security systems onsite, or program them remotely across cell networks or the internet, using computers and special software
• Use equipment, such as multimeters, to test systems
• Demonstrate systems for customers and explain the cause and seriousness of false alarms
• Troubleshoot malfunctions and make the necessary adjustments or repairs
• Prepare documents such as invoices, warranties, installation and repair records, and contracts

Security alarm installers work in both indoor and outdoor settings. These may vary from clean, comfortable homes and businesses to cold, dusty buildings under construction. Travel between job sites is required.

A standard 40-hour workweek is the norm. However, some overtime may be required during busy periods. For customer convenience, security alarm installers may work some evenings and weekends.

Installers must observe safety precautions to avoid injuries when working with power tools and electricity. They must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when working on construction sites. On some sites, they can expect to work on ladders, scaffolding, and man lifts. The work involves handling heavier items.

Security alarm installers need:

• Motor co-ordination and manual dexterity
• Normal colour vision
• Mechanical aptitude and spatial perception
• Communication (reading and writing) and interpersonal skills for dealing with customers and other workers
• A positive and professional image
• The ability to self-motivate and self-direct, because most often they work alone

They should enjoy using tools and equipment to perform precision tasks. They should like troubleshooting problems. They should enjoy working with little direction or supervision.

Security alarm installers work for alarm companies ranging in size from local operations to national chains. A growing number of installers work on a contract basis.

Experienced installers may advance to lead installer and supervisor positions. They may move into other areas, such as sales or customer service, or set up their own businesses.

Security alarm installers are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 2242: Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment). In Alberta, 75% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

• Retail Trade (pdf)
• Other Services (pdf)
• Wholesale Trade (pdf)
• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (pdf)
• Business, Building and Other Support Services (pdf)
• Construction (pdf)
• Educational Services (pdf)

The employment outlook (pdf) in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• Trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• Location in Alberta
• Employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• Occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• Size of the occupation

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

In Alberta, the C142: Electronic Service Technicians (Household and Business Equipment) occupational group is expected to have a below-average annual growth of 1.5% from 2016 to 2020. In addition to job openings created by employment turnover, 114 new positions are forecasted to be created within this occupational group each year.

BuildForce Canada website: www.buildforce.ca

Canadian Security Association website: www.canasa.org

For more information on career planning, education and jobs call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre toll-free at 1-877-644-9992 or 780-644-9992 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Supports Centre near you.