Security Engineer Salary
Introduction
If you’re considering a career as a security engineer, or you’re already working in the security sector and want to increase your earnings, understanding the security engineer salary landscape is essential. From location and experience to self-employment and specialist skills, several factors influence how much you can earn per year in this role.
This article explores the factors affecting a security engineer salary in the UK, what companies tend to offer, and how you can maximise your income in this high-demand field.
What Is a Security Engineer?
A security engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining systems that protect people, buildings, and assets. This could include installing CCTV systems, setting up intruder alarms, managing access control, or integrating fire and security solutions into one seamless setup.
While the job title might suggest technical work only, many security engineer jobs also involve customer service, system design, and occasionally project management. Engineers often work in accordance with British Standards and may specialise in particular systems or manufacturers.
Security Engineer Salary
The security engineer salary in the UK varies significantly depending on experience, specialism, and employer. Entry-level engineers might start around £25,000 per year, while experienced professionals in specialist roles or senior positions can earn upwards of £45,000–£55,000 per year — sometimes more with overtime and on-call bonuses.
If you’re looking for guidance on the fire and security engineer salary UK professionals can expect, the figures are broadly similar, particularly for multidisciplined engineers handling both systems.
Higher salaries are typically found in areas with a high cost of living, like London, and within large organisations or those serving high-end commercial clients.
Average Salary in the UK
The average salary for a security engineer in the UK is currently between £35,000 and £42,000 per year, depending on your location, skills, and whether you’re working for a small business or a national firm.
Freelance engineers or those taking on self-employed contracts often report higher earnings, particularly if they’re skilled in specialist systems or available for urgent callouts. However, they also shoulder their own costs for tools, transport, and certification.
What Influences a Security Engineer’s Salary?
Several key factors affect how much you can earn in a security engineer role:
- Location: Salaries in London and the South East are consistently higher.
- Training and qualifications: Certified engineers with product training or NVQs can command better pay.
- Experience: More years in the field often translate to higher paying roles.
- Sector: Commercial and public sector contracts tend to pay more than residential.
- Self-employment: Running your own business or working freelance can boost yearly income — but involves more risk.
Cyber – A Different Path
It’s worth noting that cyber security engineers are a different career path altogether. While a security engineer might install CCTV or intruder alarms, cyber security engineers focus on protecting digital infrastructure, data, and networks from cyber threats.
However, there is increasing crossover between the two areas, especially as more physical security systems become IP-based or cloud-connected. Some engineers may wish to retrain in cyber as a way to expand their job prospects or pursue more technical, higher-paying roles.
Training and Skills That Increase Your Salary
- Product-specific training (e.g., Hikvision, Texecom, Paxton)
- Networking and IP configuration knowledge
- Fault-finding and diagnostics
- Commissioning and handover expertise
- Clear communication and documentation
- Working in accordance with industry regulations
Companies Hiring Security Engineers
Across the UK, hundreds of companies are hiring security engineers. From specialist installers and facilities management providers to major players in construction and infrastructure, there’s no shortage of jobs.
Many of the top-paying employers are based in or around London, offering higher salaries to attract talent due to the cost of living and the complexity of urban installations. Regional employers may not match London rates, but they often provide a better work/life balance and less travel.
If you’re actively on the job search, it’s a good idea to keep your inbox open for alerts or register with a specialist recruiter to explore the best opportunities.
Should You Consider Self-Employment?
Self-employment is increasingly popular among experienced security engineers. Many take on sub-contract work, setting their own rates, choosing their jobs, and managing their own clients.
Self-employed engineers can earn between £250 and £400 per day, depending on experience, skills, and workload. That could equate to £60,000+ per year if they’re working full-time and managing costs well. But be aware: there’s admin involved, and you’ll need to receive ongoing training and stay compliant with regulations.
Copy That Counts: Writing Strong CVs and Profiles
If you’re aiming for a higher security engineer salary, don’t overlook the power of your CV. Make sure it reflects your training, experience, and product knowledge clearly. Recruiters and hiring managers want to see data that backs up your claims — such as the number of systems installed, the sites you’ve worked on, or the size of contracts you’ve covered.
If you’re applying online, make sure your CV or application is tailored to the job title, and that it includes key phrases such as security engineer, engineer salary, and systems experience. That way, you’re more likely to appear in search results and get noticed. If you need any help, give us a call and we can help you to perfect your CV.
Final Thoughts
The demand for security engineers is only growing, especially as technology advances and smart systems become the norm. Whether you’re newly qualified or a seasoned pro, there are plenty of ways to increase your average salary — from specialist training to relocating, or even striking out on your own.
If you’re ready to explore new jobs, improve your skills, or just want more information on current pay trends, keep an eye on job boards and speak to a recruiter who specialises in the industry. The right move could transform not just your yearly income, but your long-term career too.
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