Apprentice Fire Radio Technician

Start a career in the trades without needing experience first. FSS Technologies is hiring an Apprentice Fire Radio Technician to join our AES Field Service team in northern Illinois. You will work side by side with an experienced technician to install, test, and service AES radio devices, the equipment that sends fire alarm signals from customer buildings to the monitoring center. Your work makes sure help arrives!

We provide training, tools, and support. You bring a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to doing the job safely and right.

About FSS Technologies

FSS Technologies provides industry-leading fire alarm, fire sprinkler, and electronic security solutions, including video surveillance, access control, audio and video, intercom, and intrusion systems. Our mission is to protect lives and property, and we are growing every day. We are accountable and results-oriented, and we want every team member to reach their personal, professional, and financial goals through the work we do together. Our core values guide how we work and who we hire: Integrity, Honesty, and Professionalism.

Key Responsibilities

• Installation Support: Help install AES radio units, antennas, wiring, and power supplies at customer buildings, and connect them to fire alarm control panels as directed.
• System Testing: Help test fire alarm and radio systems, operate test equipment, and confirm alarm signals reach the monitoring center.
• Troubleshooting: Learn to find and fix radio signal, programming, and communication problems alongside your mentor technician.
• Documentation: Accurately record your time, parts used, and work completed in our digital system.
• Tools and Inventory: Keep tools, test equipment, parts, and vehicle inventory organized, stocked, and in good working order.
• Safety: Follow all FSS and OSHA safety rules, wear required PPE and stop and ask whenever you are unsure if something is safe.
• Customer Service: Represent FSS professionally on every job site and refer technical questions to your mentor or supervisor.
• Training: Complete required on-the-job, safety, and manufacturer training as assigned.

Your Path to Technician

This role is built to grow. As you learn and are signed off on each skill, you will take on more independent work. FSS will support you as you work toward NICET Fire Alarm Systems certification, OSHA 10, and any state or local registrations required for the work, with a path to advance to AES Radio Technician.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least 18 years old.
• Valid driver's license, a reliable personal vehicle, and a driving record that meets our insurance carrier's standards.
• Auto insurance coverage of at least $100,000/$300,000 for work driving.
• Basic hand-tool skills and a genuine interest in learning electrical and electronic systems.
• Ability to use a smartphone or tablet to log time and complete work records.

Preferred Qualifications

• Trade school, low-voltage, electrical, or telecommunications coursework.
• Experience in construction, a skilled trade, or the military.
• OSHA 10 certification.

Essential Soft Skills

• Dependability: Shows up on time, every day, ready to work.
• Willingness to Learn: Asks questions, takes feedback, and builds skills quickly.
• Attention to Detail: Follows instructions carefully and takes pride in quality work.
• Teamwork: Works well with mentors, coworkers, and customers.

Working Conditions

• Fieldwork: You will spend 80–90% of the workday traveling to and working at customer sites across northern Illinois. There is no overnight travel.
• Physical Demands: Lift and carry up to 50 pounds; climb and work from ladders and lifts, including at heights; bend, kneel, crouch, and work in attics and tight spaces; tell wire and indicator colors apart; and work in all weather conditions. These are performed with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Safety Standards: Follow all company and regulatory safety guidelines, including required PPE and job-site safety rules.

Pay and Benefits

Pay: $18.00 to $22.00 per hour, based on prior related experience and training. Overtime is paid as required by law.

• Medical insurance, with PPO and HSA-eligible plan options
• Dental and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Company gas card for work fuel and a monthly vehicle maintenance allowance
• Company phone and tools provided
• Paid on-the-job and manufacturer training, plus certification support

Benefit eligibility is governed by each plan’s terms.

Commitment

FSS Technologies is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce that reflects our community. We make employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, military status, unfavorable military discharge, arrest record, citizenship status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. If you need an accommodation during the application process, contact [email protected].

Offers are contingent on a successful background check and motor vehicle record review, conducted after a conditional offer and as permitted by Illinois law. Employment with FSS Technologies is at will.