Security Systems Installer
Installs and maintains CCTV, access control, alarm systems and smart home security. Configures IP cameras, network video recorders, biometric access and integrated security platforms for residential and commercial clients. Combines electrical, networking and security technology skills.
- AI exposure
- 3 of 100, low exposure
- Hiring trend
- Rising
- Hiring rate
- 50%
The role
What the work is, what it pays, and what it costs you.
At a glance
- Remote friendly
- No
- Freelance potential
- High
- Time to senior
- 5 years
- Adaptation level
- Moderate
A day in the role
Installs IP cameras at a commercial premises, configures an NVR with remote viewing, sets up a biometric access control system, and trains the client on mobile app monitoring.
What it pays
Kenyan market, per month- Entry
- KES 40,000-60,000
- Mid
- KES 70,000-120,000
- Senior
- KES 140,000-240,000
Exposure
How much of this a machine can already do, and how that was worked out.
Where this rating sits
1,516 rated careersRated above 2% of the 1,516 careers in the catalogue, which averages 43. Inside trades & vocational the mean is 11, across 66 careers.
What the rating is made of
Share of recorded tasks- Machine does it
- 10%Software can already complete this work end to end.
- Machine assists
- 30%A person still decides, but the drafting is done for them.
- Person does it
- 60%Judgement, relationships and accountability that do not transfer.
Named task by task
Already automated
- AI-powered video analytics configuration (facial recognition, intrusion detection)
- Generating system design layouts and camera placement plans
- Automating device health monitoring and alert systems
- Producing installation reports and maintenance logs
Still human
- Installing CCTV, IP camera systems and NVRs/DVRs
- Configuring network video storage and remote viewing
- Setting up biometric and card-based access control systems
- Installing and configuring alarm and intrusion detection systems
- Running network cabling (Cat6, fibre) for security systems
- Integrating multiple security systems into unified platforms
- Training clients on system operation and mobile monitoring apps
- Performing preventive maintenance and troubleshooting
Getting in
The routes into the role and what each one asks for.
What to study
8 courses- Certificate in Metal Processing TechnologyKsh 42,600a year
- Artisan in Building TechnologyKsh 67,189a year
- Artisan in Carpentry and JoineryKsh 67,189a year
- Artisan in Front Office OperationsKsh 67,189a year
- Artisan in HorticultureKsh 67,189a year
- Artisan in Land SurveyingKsh 67,189a year
- Artisan in MasonryKsh 67,189a year
- Artisan in Refrigeration and Air ConditioningKsh 67,189a year
How people get in
Electrical or IT training
2-3 yearsMedium cost
Diploma plus security systems training
On-job training
1-2 yearsLow cost
Start as installer assistant at security company
Who hires
- Securex Kenya
- G4S Kenya
- Wells Fargo Kenya
- Self-employment
- Smart home companies
Common misconceptions
Its just mounting cameras
Modern security systems involve networking, IP configuration, AI analytics, access control integration and remote monitoring.
No technical skills needed
IP-based security systems require networking knowledge, not just wiring skills.
What happens next
How the role changes from here, and where it leads.
Supply and demand
- Demand
- 50
- Supply pressure
- 12
- Balance
- High demand
What to learn
- IP networking
- AI video analytics
- Access control integration
Related careers
Kenyan market notes
Security is a major industry in Kenya. Securex, G4S, BM Security and Wells Fargo are major employers. Corporate Staffing lists 17+ CCTV controller jobs in Kenya (KES 38K+). Glassdoor: average technician salary in Kenya KES 43,333/year. Inceptor offers CCTV installation training in Nairobi. Finstock Evarsity lists career paths: CCTV technician, surveillance assistant, field installer, security systems support. Most companies look for practical skills rather than long experience — easy entry. Growing demand for AI-powered video analytics and integrated smart security systems. Self-employment is common for experienced installers.
Further reading
This role is rated 3 out of 100 today. Save it and the app keeps that number, then tells you by how much it has moved when the record is next reviewed.