Locksmith Training, Schools, And Jobs

About Locksmiths

Locksmiths

Locksmiths install, adjust, open and repair locks. They also change lock combinations and make keys. Some locksmiths also work with electronic locks that use key card entry systems. Some locksmiths may work with biometric locks. Lock technician and road service locksmith are a couple of sample job titles.

Some locksmiths install and repair alarm systems. They also offer security advice to people regarding homes and businesses. Some locksmiths install and repair safes. Most locksmiths work in locksmith shops and many of them have their own business.

They often open locks for customers that have misplaced or lost their keys. They either pick the lock or make a duplicate key. A locksmith opens combination locks by turning the lock's dial until the tumblers click into place. Sometimes a locksmith uses an electric drill and drills through the lock.

Locksmiths Responsibilities

• Install, fix, adjust and open locks
• Change lock combinations
• Show customers how to use locks and keys properly
• Create master key systems for businesses
• Get key code numbers in order to make duplicate keys
• Adjust and change locks to protect homes and businesses
• Open combination locks
• Repair locks by replacing broken and worn out parts
• Keep records of company locks and keys
• Make new parts by hand

They often travel to the their customer's location in a mobile shop. A locksmith needs strong basic math skills and mechanical aptitude. The ability to make calculations by using fractions, ratios and percentages is highly beneficial for the occupation. They also need the ability to interpret complex manuals. Since they often deal with customers, good interpersonal and communication skills are important. They usually have to provide evidence of insurability and pass a criminal background check.

Employment Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment growth for locksmiths and safe repairers from 2008 to 2018 will be about as fast as average for all occupations. In addition, the median annual earnings for locksmiths in 2008 was $34,460.

Locksmiths Education, Certification, and Licensing

Most employers prefer candidates that are high school graduates and have some formal training. Often, locksmiths learn their skills through on-the-job training which can take from one month to a year to complete. Candidates may take a correspondence course or take courses at a vocational school in order to prepare for their on-the-job-training. Beneficial courses include mechanical drawing, mathematics and machine shop. In addition, in many states there is a licensing process for opening a locksmith business or for becoming a locksmith employee.

Resources for Locksmiths

• Associated Locksmiths of America

Major Employers of Locksmiths

The top employers are locksmith shops, investigation and security services; colleges, universities and professional schools; elementary and secondary schools; government agencies, hardware stores, safes and locks manufacturers, industrial companies and department stores.

Schools for Locksmiths are listed in the column to the left.

The Top Cities tab shows employment statistics for Locksmiths by major metro area.

The Top Industries tab shows which industries have the most jobs for Locksmiths, along with salary data by industry.

The Find Schools tab lets you search for schools by field of study, degree level, and location.