Systems technicians are skilled professionals responsible for the installation and maintenance of security systems. They work to ensure the systems operate seamlessly, protecting businesses and individuals alike.

We recently spoke with two technicians on the American Alarm team to get a sense of their roles, what drew them to this industry, where they see the future of the field going, and more.

Johanna W. is a Systems Technician who has been with American Alarm for over three years. Bill S. is a Systems Integrator and has been with American Alarm for 32 years.

Below, we’ll explore the education and licensing process for aspiring technicians, the qualities needed to succeed in the field, and the types of challenges to expect in this role. We’ll also cover what a typical workday might look like and more!

Whether you’re considering a career change or just curious about the folks behind your security system installation, this piece will offer lots of insights.

Getting started as a Systems Technician

A career as a systems technician typically begins with a hybrid of schooling and an apprenticeship program, which takes about two years. During this time, aspiring technicians work regular hours while also attending school to gain the necessary theoretical knowledge.

No prior knowledge of trades or electrical systems is required for the apprenticeship program, though it’s certainly an asset! The hands-on experience that comes with an apprenticeship is crucial, especially for anyone entering the field without previous experience. Working with fellow techs with years of experience allows apprentices to learn on the job, ask questions, and get up to speed quickly.

Johanna mentioned that having Bill as a mentor was a significant asset because she didn’t have prior electrical experience. Bill’s foundational knowledge helped her get up to speed quickly. Bill noted that he came into the career before schooling was required but that his basic understanding of the trades and his willingness to learn on the job helped him succeed.

The licensing process

In Massachusetts, upon completing the required school hours, systems technician apprentices must pass a state-administered test to obtain their Low-Voltage Systems Technician license, officially marking the start of their professional careers. This process may differ depending on the state you are in.

While taking a formal exam may sound like a deterrent for some apprentices, Johanna mentioned that it’s well worth the effort to achieve the license because there’s a great career waiting on the other side for you.

The licensing test can be challenging, but applicants have three chances to pass to obtain their license. If someone doesn’t pass on their third attempt, they can try again after taking a refresher course.

Bill mentioned that many people don’t pass on their first try and shouldn’t be discouraged from trying again. His top tip for anyone taking the test was to familiarize themselves with where to find answers in the code book rather than trying to memorize the code itself.

A typical workday for a systems technician

Both Johanna and Bill mentioned that one of the things they enjoy so much about their jobs is that no two days are the same.

Generally, technicians receive paperwork detailing what they’re working on for the day. Then, they’ll meet with their customer, go over the logistics of the job, and get to work on the installation. After installing the equipment, technicians must also help customers learn how to use it.

A typical workday will vary depending on the scope and scale of a project. Some projects may be small one-off installations. Other times, projects may be larger in scope, requiring many days on the job site to complete each phase.

Working on a variety of different projects keeps things interesting for technicians. They can work in many different settings, with varying types of clients, and different kinds of technology.

Challenges technicians face

Every career has its challenges, and systems technicians are no exception. According to Johanna and Bill, keeping up with the evolving technology in the field is one of the biggest ones they contend with. But it’s a welcome challenge because it makes the job exciting and brings new security solutions for clients.

They also acknowledged that the apprenticeship process may feel like a big hurdle to some aspiring technicians. For anyone who thinks the apprenticeship process seems daunting, Bill and Johanna encourage them to persevere. While the process may feel long and arduous, the career track waiting on the other side has many future opportunities.

The future of the career

The systems technician field offers great diversity and growth opportunities. Many technicians begin their careers in the field and work up to sales or management roles. Bill and Johanna mentioned that American Alarm offers many opportunities to cross-train in different roles, which can be a great way to test the waters in new areas.

Technicians work with a variety of different types of systems, including access control, video, and analytics. There is room for techs to specialize in any of these areas, which can also lead to new growth opportunities as well.

As technology advances, the role of techs in the field is evolving, too. Bill mentioned that in the past, technicians primarily interfaced with building maintenance managers, but that now they find themselves working more and more with folks from IT teams. Because so many security components are now tied into a building’s network, the installation is more tech-driven than ever before. This shift is an exciting advancement for anyone who is curious about evolving tech and how it can assist in real-world security solutions.

Are you interested in becoming a systems technician?

A career as a systems technician is ideal for individuals who are eager to learn, enjoy working on diverse projects, and thrive in environments where no two days are the same. It’s also a great fit for those who prefer hands-on work and don’t want to be confined to a desk.

Don’t be deterred if you have no prior experience in this field. Johanna and Bill both emphasized that one of the most important qualities for candidates is the willingness to learn. An apprenticeship program enables you to learn on the job from experienced technicians.

If you or someone you know is looking to join our team please click here to view a list of our current openings.

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