Low voltage technicians install and maintain systems running below 50 volts: structured cabling, access control, video surveillance, AV, fire alarm, and building automation.
Many commercial buildings now hold more low voltage infrastructure than traditional power wiring, and demand has grown steadily alongside the smart building and integrated systems market.
Quick Facts
The Role At A Glance
01
Typical Salary Range
$48,000 to $82,000 per year, depending on specialty and certification level.
02
Common Specialties
Structured cabling, access control, CCTV/surveillance, AV integration, BAS/BMS, and fire alarm.
03
Key Certifications
BICSI RCDD or Installer, CompTIA Network+, Leviton/Panduit manufacturer certs, and NICET for fire alarm.
04
Job Outlook
Growing; smart building systems and IoT device proliferation are driving demand.
05
Common Employers
Low voltage contractors, AV integrators, security systems firms, and building automation companies.
Specialties
Where Low Voltage Techs Work
Structured Cabling
Data and voice infrastructure
Access Control
Entry and credentialing systems
CCTV / Surveillance
Video security installs
AV Integration
Audio-visual systems
BAS / BMS
Building automation and management
Fire Alarm
Life-safety systems, NICET-certified
Market
Why Demand Is Strong
The smart building market is expanding fast, and commercial property owners keep investing in integrated security, automation, and AV infrastructure. Techs who work across multiple system types, especially those who can both install and program, are commanding higher pay.
Data center work has also created sustained demand for structured cabling specialists who understand the density and performance requirements of mission-critical environments.
Requirements
What Employers Are Looking For
Structured Cabling RolesCerts
Often require BICSI or manufacturer certifications.
Access Control & SecurityLicensing
May require state licensing in some jurisdictions.
Building AutomationNetworking
Increasingly requires familiarity with BACnet, Modbus, and IP networking concepts.
Driver's LicenseNear-Universal
Expected given the travel involved across sites.
Soft SkillsAll Specialties
Strong troubleshooting and customer communication are valued across every low voltage specialty.
