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Certifications that raise your rate

• Fire alarm certification

  NICET (the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) fire alarm levels are written into many fire codes by name. The clearest pay increase in this trade.

• Networking skills

  Cameras moved from coaxial cable to IP (internet protocol) networks, so switches, addressing and bandwidth are now part of the job.

• Access control systems

  Card readers, door hardware and the software behind them. Commercial work, better hours, better money.

• Manufacturer certifications

  Specific panel and camera platforms. Employers who sell that brand pay for people who are certified on it.

• An electrician's license

  Crossing into full electrical work widens what you can legally do and what you can charge for.