Personal & Professional Services

Alarm, Security or Surveillance Monitor

SOC 33-9032.00 · ESCO 5414 · OSCA 452231

Role snapshot

Overview

Watches CCTV feeds and alarm systems in a control room, identifying suspicious activity and dispatching security personnel or emergency services when incidents occur. This role is crucial for maintaining security, preventing loss, and ensuring a rapid and effective response to emergencies.

Ensures the safety and security of premises, assets, and personnel by proactively monitoring for threats, coordinating rapid responses, and documenting all security-related incidents.

On the job

Monitor multiple CCTV cameras and alarm systems simultaneously for suspicious activity, breaches, or emergencies.
Respond to activated alarms, assess the situation using available surveillance, and dispatch appropriate security personnel or emergency services.
Document all incidents, observations, and responses accurately and thoroughly in digital logs and incident reports.
Communicate effectively via two-way radio, phone, and internal systems with security guards, law enforcement, and other responders.
Operate access control systems, granting or denying entry as per established security protocols and procedures.

Alarm, Security or Surveillance Monitor at work

Tools & technology

CCTV monitoring softwareAlarm management systemsTwo-way radio communication systemsAccess control softwareIncident reporting platforms

Average salary

$42K

MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD

$32K Bottom 10%

$58K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, often supplemented with specific security or surveillance certifications.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Alarm Monitor

Security Supervisor

Security Operations Manager

CURRENT ROLE

Alarm, Security or Surveillance Monitor

Personal & Professional Services

ADJACENT MOVES

Dispatcher

Security Guard

Dispatcher

Loss Prevention Officer

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

conventional · RCE

People who are detail-oriented, enjoy following established procedures, and are adept at operating technical equipment in a structured environment often thrive in this role. It suits individuals who are vigilant and can respond effectively to incidents.

Personality characteristics

Vigilant

Maintains a high level of alertness and concentration over long periods, noticing subtle changes or anomalies in surveillance feeds.

Procedure-Oriented

Follows established protocols and operational procedures meticulously, ensuring consistency and compliance in security responses.

Calm Under Pressure

Remains composed and rational when responding to alarms or critical incidents, making clear and effective decisions.

Focused

Prefers working independently on defined tasks, concentrating on monitoring activities without significant social distraction.

Responsible

Takes ownership of security duties and the safety of the monitored area, acting with integrity and reliability.

Best for

Individuals who are highly observant and enjoy structured, rule-based work.
People who are calm, decisive, and reliable when faced with emergencies.
Those who prefer independent work while contributing significantly to a team's overall security mission.

Watch out for

The work can be sedentary and require long periods of concentration, which may not suit those seeking dynamic physical activity.
Shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays, is common and requires significant adaptability to varying schedules.