To become a security systems installer, you could take a college course like:

• Level 3 Diploma in Providing Electronic Fire and Security Systems
• Level 3 Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• T Level in Building Services Engineering for Construction

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

You could complete a Fire Emergency and Security Systems Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.

You could also do a Smart Home Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship. This apprenticeship teaches you how to install and set up 'smart' security systems in homes.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

You can apply directly to employers if you've got experience in electrical or electronics work.

Employers might expect you to have GCSEs or similar qualifications in English, maths, science and a technical subject.

You could study to become a security systems installer with a private training organisation.

The National Security Inspectorate and British Security Industry Association list private training providers.

You'll need:

• practical skills for installing equipment
• customer service skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work on your own
• to be flexible and open to change
• knowledge of public safety and security
• broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
• problem-solving skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• have a full driving licence
• pass security checks

As a security systems installer you could:

• discuss security plans with customers
• install security systems and equipment
  
• test systems, find faults and fix them
• show customers how to use their equipment
• offer support for existing systems

You could work at a client's home or at a client's business.

Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time and at height.