Locksmith Career Guide

How to become a locksmith, description of the locksmith job and how much money a locksmith can make

Locksmith's are trained to install, maintain and repair a wide variety of locks, doors, safes and vaults. The work of an Locksmith is diverse and constantly changing. These workers are constantly learning new skills to adapt to new locking technology. This career field is in demand and employers are constantly looking to hire workers that are willing to learn an exciting and challenging career.

A locksmith is using tools to try to open a locked door.

Job that is in demand
The door and lock industry is constantly growing. At the same time many workers are beginning to retire. Therefore, there are many great career opportunities for people interested in becoming a Locksmith.
Interesting and Challenging
Locksmiths are always learning new skills to keep up with new locking technologies. The work is very diverse and constantly changing.
No College Degree Required
You do not need an expensive college degree to work as a Locksmith. Many Locksmiths have acquired training while working on the job with an employer.

Where you can work as a Locksmith and job responsibilities

Maintenance Department

Hospitals, Public Schools, University's, large corporations and facilities typically will employ an in-house Maintenance Department. Individuals with skills in lock and door repair can find jobs as a locksmith with these organizations. These workers get to learn their buildings and equipment, typically have steady year round work and get to go home at the same time every day.

Contractor

Many Locksmith's work for a contractor and drive a company service truck to customer locations. These workers perform installation and service of locks and door hardware. Some contractors may have technicians that specialize in electronic access systems or safe repair. Locksmith's at these companies typically work day shift hours during the work week. However, they can also require technicians to be available for after hours service calls for their customers.

Job Responsibilities

Locksmith's install, repair and maintain a variety of locks, door hardware, safes and large vaults. These workers are trained to use a variety of hand tools and power tools to safely complete a variety of work related tasks. They frequently cut new and duplicate keys, change out existing locks, re-key locks, repair locking mechanisms, install and repair electronic door access systems, repair various door hardware, crack and repair safes, maintain documentation and assist customers in improving entry door security.

Career Progression Idea's

Here are some career progression idea's for Locksmith's that have several years of experience and training.

Management

Locksmith's and other facility maintenance workers can learn valuable skills throughout their career that can help them advance to the position of Facility manager/Supervisor. Facility managers/Supervisors typically lead skilled tradesmen in the safe and efficient maintenance and repair of large facilities. They are knowledgeable in building codes, OSHA regulations, industry practices and workforce leadership.

Company Owner

Sales Representative

Sales representative works for product manufactures and help customers in the selection and use of their companies products. These workers help the customer select the correct product for the application, provide training and can assist in troubleshooting various problems that may occur. Sales Representative's usually requires some formal training, college, apprenticeship, years of experience and excellent people skills.

How much money you can make as a Locksmith and how to get started

Compensation

A great website to get an idea of how much money you could possibly make as a Locksmith is The Bureau of Labor Statistics. It provides some excellent compensation information for various occupations throughout the United States.

The Occupational Employment Statistics program provides compensation information for various occupations. Click here for more information on compensation for Locksmith-https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes499094.htm

On the Job Training/Community College/Trade School

Most Locksmith's get their training while working on the job. However, community colleges and trade schools are a great way to get started in the building trades. Its important to research the quality of training and how successful previous students have been at finding and retaining jobs. Some Community Colleges and trade Schools may have programs to connect students with employers. Talk to local building trades contractors on what their experience has been with students that have completed programs from these schools.

Military

There are many skilled trades and construction occupations throughout the United States Armed Forces. These occupations will certainly help develop important skills that are relevant to the Locksmith career field. Each military branch has personnel that are highly trained to service, maintain and install anything that exist on a military base. Enlisted members of the Armed Forces, complete a basic training course then they must complete additional training before they begin working in their occupation. Members of the Armed Forces get 30 days of vacation each year, food and housing, medical, dental and many other important benefits. Educational benefits are available during your enlistment period and upon completion. Joining the military can be a great way to learn a skilled trades or construction occupation.

Always contact a Military Recruiter to learn more detailed information on job opportunities, training, benefits and other important information for employment within the Armed Forces.

Explore our career resources for other Skilled Trades jobs that are in demand today

The Trades are in demand and hiring today! View our career resources for other skilled trade careers and learn how to get started in a rewarding skilled trade job. Learn what trades are most in demand today, how to get started and how much money you can make in the trades. It's a great time to Go Skilled Trades!

Skilled Trades Career Resources

Many Skilled Tradesmen have acquired their training through an apprenticeship program, trade school, the military or while working on the job. You do not need an expensive college degree to work in the Skilled Trades, facility maintenance or Construction field.

No College Degree Required

You do not need an expensive college degree to work in the skilled trades field. Many skilled tradesmen today, have acquired their training through apprenticeships, military, trade schools or working on the job.

No Expensive Student Loans

The average college student today graduates with a significant amount of debt due to their expensive student loans. On the other hand, an apprentice gets paid while completing their training program.

Great Rewarding Careers

There are many Skilled Trades and Construction career opportunities available today. Employers are constantly looking for workers with a good work ethic and the ability to learn new skills.