Are you sick of flipping burgers for $5.15 an hour? Is waking up at 4 a.m. to clean toilets getting old?

There may be hope for you in the world of security systems.

Each summer, about 1,000 BYU-Idaho students make their home in an unfamiliar city to take a shot at selling or installing security systems.

“There are opportunities around the United States,” said Jeremy Pixton, a regional manager for APX Alarm. APX has over 40 locations in 27 states nationwide, according to apexalarm.net.

Another company in the world of security systems is Pinnacle Security, which also has offices across the United States.

In hiring employees to work in the security system business, there are two major attributes companies look for.

“Individuals who are self-motivated and are willing to work hard — that’s who we’re looking for,” said Brandon Jamison, a manager at Pinnacle Security.

Once hired, employees are grouped into teams, assigned to a location and put to work. Managers, salespeople and installers become part of a team that works hard to bring in the bucks. But that buck making doesn’t come without some sweat and sacrifice.

“Some days you are up working until three in the morning and then you’re up and going again at eight. It does get tiring sometimes, but it pays off,” said Tim Williams, a senior from Boise.

Even with the long hours and sleep deprivation, most employees are happy with their job choice.

“Those who work hard are successful and enjoy their experience,” Jamison said.

The average installer comes away with approximately $12-20,000 for their summer’s work, while a sales representative can potentially earn an average of $28-30,000, Pixton said.

Along with the wages earned, the companies also offer incentives for hard work. The rewards offered range anywhere from an iPod to a cash bonus to a free trip to Mexico.

“The company was really good about giving us incentives like barbecues and prizes. It was fun and exciting to have a goal to work toward,” said Chris Bell, a sophomore from Boise.

So if you’re up for some hard work in a new city – and also wouldn’t mind getting a big chunk of money – give security systems a shot. The work won’t be easy, but it’s more than cleaning toilets will get you.

For more information about the companies, call APX Alarm at 656-0440 and Pinnacle Security at 359-9944.