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Fire Alarm Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Electrician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25.75 - $35.25/hr

Successful completion of electrical apprentice program. Class "B" electricians card. * Must have ... NICET qualified for maintenance and installation of fire alarm systems. * Ability to handle routine ...

Electrician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25.75 - $35.25/hr

Successful completion of electrical apprentice program. Class "B" electricians card. * Must have ... NICET qualified for maintenance and installation of fire alarm systems. * Ability to handle routine ...

You won't be pulling fire alarms or doing building HVAC work. You're here for the machines. In your ... If you want to grow into a higher-level maintenance role, pursue a machinist apprenticeship, or ...

Fire Alarm Apprentice information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$23

$37

How much do fire alarm apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire alarm apprentice in Chicago, IL is $23.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fire alarm apprentice?

A Fire Alarm Apprentice assists in installing, maintaining, and repairing fire alarm systems under the guidance of a licensed technician. They learn to read blueprints, run wiring, mount devices, and ensure systems comply with safety regulations. This role provides hands-on training and industry knowledge, helping apprentices work toward certification and career advancement in fire protection.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for a fire alarm apprentice?

As a Fire Alarm Apprentice, your daily tasks typically include assisting with the installation, inspection, and maintenance of fire alarm systems under the supervision of licensed technicians. You’ll gain hands-on experience working with a variety of tools and equipment, learning how to read blueprints, follow safety codes, and troubleshoot system malfunctions. Apprenticeships offer valuable opportunities for on-the-job training, mentorship, and exposure to a range of commercial and residential environments. This foundational experience helps prepare you for advanced certifications and roles in life safety systems, paving the way for career growth in this in-demand field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire alarm apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Alarm Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of electrical systems, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with fire alarm panels, wiring tools, and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes is often required, and some employers may encourage or support NICET certification. Strong attention to detail, eagerness to learn, and effective teamwork and communication skills are especially valuable in this role. These competencies ensure the accurate installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of fire alarm systems in compliance with safety standards.

How much does a fire alarm apprentice make?

A fire alarm apprentice typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Apprentices often receive on-the-job training and may work towards certifications in fire alarm systems and safety standards.

What are popular job titles related to Fire Alarm Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Fire Alarm Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fire Alarm Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Fire Alarm Apprentice jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Fire Alarm Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Fire Alarm Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Fire Alarm Apprentice job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,880 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Experienced Security Alarm Installer

Johnson Controls

Arlington Heights, IL

$32.07 - $44.13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 412 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, helps customers use energy more productively, reduce carbon emissions, and operate with the precision and resilience required in rapidly expanding industries such as data centers, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, and higher education.

For more than 140 years, Johnson Controls has delivered performance where it really matters. Backed by advanced technology, lifecycle services and an industry-leading field organization, we elevate customer performance, turn goals into real-world results and help move society forward.

Visit johnsoncontrols.com for more information and follow @Johnsoncontrols on socialplatforms.


Be part of the future!

We are one team, dedicated to working collaboratively to create the purposeful solutions that propel the world forward. We hope you will join our diverse team of top people - you bring your talent, and we'll give you the space and opportunities to grow and succeed.We are committed to make a difference.

What we offer:

  • Competitive Starting Pay

  • Paid Training

  • Global Advancement Opportunities

  • Company Vehicle (as applicable)

  • Referral Bonuses

  • Comprehensive Benefits

    • Medical/Dental/Vision insurance

    • Health Savings Account (HAS)

    • Life Insurance

    • 401(k) savings plan with company match

    • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability

    • Employee Assistance Program

    • Wellness Program

    • And more!


What you will do:

As a critical part of the team, the Commercial Installer works onsite with our commercial customers to set up and program their Integrated Security fire and security systems. The Commercial Installer also dismantles and reconstructs equipment when necessary.

What you will do:

This position will be responsible for the installation of complex integrated security systems to include the wiring, equipment and programming of access control systems, CCTV, digital recorders, network recorders, and intercom systems for clients.

How you will do it:

  • Can use electronic test equipment to troubleshoot complicated problems during installation.

  • Reads and interprets blueprints, diagrams, submittals, specifications, software/systems programs, schematics and operational product manuals.

  • Readjust equipment, repair or replace inoperative equipment and test for operation

  • Performs system checks for proper operation.

  • Knowledge of computer programs including word processing, spreadsheets and databases; CCTV and access control systems; media storage.

  • Ability to plan, organize and prioritize work paying close attention to details.

  • Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, while establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships.

  • Ability to analyze information.

  • Can work unsupervised to complete installation jobs and is self-motivated to complete jobs.

  • Completes and submits all necessary paperwork related to job assignments.

  • Capable of using hand and power tools to properly mount and secure equipment

  • Conduct End- User training.

  • Ability to isolate trouble to a customer network, where applicable

What we look for

Required:

  • High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.

  • Significant background (5+ years) with Commercial Fire Alarm Systems, Commercial Digital & Analog Camera Systems and/ or Commercial Access Control Systems.

  • Understanding of the function and design of Alarm Systems.

  • Experience with IP addressable security devices (2+ years).

  • Must be computer literate to include advanced TCP/IP networking skills.

  • Required to participate in After-Hour On-Call Rotation

  • Must be able to operate a company truck with an acceptable driving record.

  • Is proficient with all aspects and operation of ADT A.I. core card access, CCTV systems.

  • Proficient with NFPA Code and National electric Code (NEC)

Preferred:

  • Associate degree or 2-year technical school program graduate preferred.

  • An industry-recognized apprentice training program may be substituted for the formal education requirement.

  • NICET I, II or III

  • Any Town Fire Alarm Listed Agent Certification

Access Control (at least 3 certifications from the following)

  • Prowatch

  • Kantech Access

  • C-Cure 800 or C-Cure 9000

  • Casi- Facility Commander or Picture Perfect or Secure Perfect

CCTV- Analog (at least 1 certification from the following)

  • Bosch

  • Ademco/Honeywell Security

  • DSC

  • DMP Security / Access / Fire

  • Fire Lite

  • Notifier

  • Gamewell / FCI

  • Edwards

  • Simplex / AutoCall

  • Pelco

  • American Dynamics

  • Cisco

CCTV- IP (at least 1 certification from the following)

  • Genetec - Access / CCTV

  • Indigo Vision

  • Speco CCTC

  • Exaqvision

Visitor Management (experience in any of the following preferred)

  • Honeywell Lobby Works

  • Stopware

  • Access Sentry

  • AIPHONE


Additional experience a plus: MCSE, CCNA, Surveillance Systems, Intrusion Detection Systems, Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems and Security Gate Operators.

HIRING HOURLY RANGE: $32.07 - $44.13 Hourly rate to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.) This position includes a competitive benefits package. The posted salary range reflects the target compensation for this role. However, we recognize that exceptional candidates may bring unique skills and experiences that exceed the typical profile. If you believe your background warrants consideration beyond the stated range, we encourage you to apply. To support an efficient and fair hiring process, we may use technology assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to help identify and evaluate candidates. All hiring decisions are ultimately made by human reviewers. For details, please visit the About Us tab on the Johnson Controls Careers site at https://jobs.johnsoncontrols.com/about-us

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Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law. To view more information about your equal opportunity and non-discrimination rights as a candidate, visit EEO is the Law. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation during the application process, please visit here.


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About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US