Fire/Security Alarm Installation Technician

Wachter, Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid weekly

Per-Diem travel pay

Company vehicle

Vacation and holidays

401(k) plan

Career advancement

Job summary

Wachter, Inc. in Chicago seeks experienced Fire Alarm/Intrusion Installation Technicians to install, troubleshoot, and maintain fire alarm systems across commercial sites nationwide. Travel 2–6 weeks at a time and the ability to read blueprints is required.

We offer long-term employment with competitive pay, paid weekly, per-diem for travel, a company vehicle when eligible, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, 401(k). Wachter is an equal opportunity employer.

Qualifications

• Proven field installation experience in fire alarm and/or intrusion systems.
• Current state license in security and/or life safety.
• Strong knowledge of NFPA 70/72 and ability to read blueprints.
• Willingness to travel extensively (2–6 weeks).

Responsibilities

• Install, troubleshoot, and maintain fire alarm systems in commercial settings.
• Run low-voltage cabling, drill concrete walls, and install cable supports.
• Test systems and ensure NFPA compliance.
• Document work clearly and maintain records.
• Collaborate on pre-installation design and planning.

Skills

Field installation

NFPA 70/72 knowledge

Blueprint reading

Travel readiness

Licenses

Job description

Wachter’s greatest asset is the people who work here. Join the Wachter family and chart your career path!

We are seeking experienced Fire Alarm/Intrusion/Burglar Installation Technicians to join our growing team. This role involves installing, troubleshooting, and maintaining fire alarm systems across various commercial and retail locations nationwide. Ideal candidates will have strong technical skills, a commitment to safety, and the flexibility to travel extensively.

We seek self-motivated and reliable technicians who can work independently and find solutions to complete the job. Long-term employment with competitive pay and exceptional benefits for qualified candidates. We value relationships and invest in our employees.

Why Wachter?

• Full-time work
• Competitive Compensation based on experience
• Paid weekly
• Per-Diem paid when overnight travel is required
• Company vehicle provided, in some cases, after initial 2-4 weeks of employment
• Drive time and mileage paid for use of personal vehicle when travel is required
• Paid Vacation and Holidays
• Opportunities for certification and career advancement
• Supportive team environment

Benefits Package: Company Paid!

• Medical, Dental, Prescription & Vision Benefits
• Life, AD&D, and LTD insurance
• Paid Vacation and Holidays
• Company-Matched 401(k) and IRA Retirement Savings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of fire alarm systems infrastructure.
• Running low-voltage cabling in commercial buildings, including drilling concrete walls and limited conduit work.
• Installing cable support structures such as j-hooks, cable racks, and innerduct.
• Conducting tests to ensure all newly installed cable systems and component devices are operational.
• Troubleshooting issues with cable networks and fire alarm panels.
• Ensuring all installations and repairs comply with NFPA standards, including NFPA 70 and 72.
• Collaborating with team members on pre-installation design and planning.
• Maintaining accurate and detailed records of all work performed.
• Adhering to all required project safety requirements as set forth by Wachter, our customers, or OSHA.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in field installation within security environments: Fire Alarm and/or Intrusion.
• Current and valid state-required Physical Security and/or Life Safety license.
• In-depth knowledge of NFPA standards, especially NFPA 70 and 72.
• Experience reading blueprints and site maps.
• Comfortable working at heights of 20–60 feet using lifts.
• Ability to work in cramped spaces and operate BOOM or scissor lifts.
• Proficiency with smartphones, computers, email, spreadsheets, and Microsoft Office.
• Possession of basic PPE and reliable transportation during the initial training period.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record (no DUI/DWI in the last 3 years).
• Availability for extensive travel (2–6 weeks at a time) and flexible shifts including nights and on-call work.

Preferred Qualifications:

• NICET Level 2 certification or State-required licenses.
• Knowledge of cabling infrastructure and conduit installation.
• Ability to identify independent colors and learn color codes.
• Experience with multiple Intrusion and Fire system manufacturers.

Wachter is a family-owned company since 1930 and we see each employee as a critical piece of the Wachter Family. With over 900 licenses across the country, Wachter serves commercial and industrial clients with the right technologies needed to keep them successful.

We design, install, and maintain the technologies that keep businesses operating efficiently. Our team of dedicated electricians, engineers, and technicians provides electrical, data, security, communications, and automation services to clients in numerous industries.

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.