Locksmiths and Safe Repairers

Repair and open locks; make keys; change locks and safe combinations; and install and repair safes.

Median Annual Wage: $38,600

Education: High school diploma or equivalent (61%); Post-secondary certificate (26%); Less than high school diploma (9%)

Projected Growth: Slower than average (3% to 7%)

Related Job Titles: Service Technician; Locksmith; Lock Technician; Road Service Locksmith; Certified Master Locksmith (CML); Certified Master Safecracker (CMS); Forensic Locksmith; Safe Technician; Certified Master Safe Technician (CMST); Certified Registered Locksmith (CRL)

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Locksmiths and Safe Repairers.

More Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Careers

  • Cut new or duplicate keys using impressions or code key machines.
  • Disassemble mechanical or electrical locking devices, and repair or replace worn tumblers, springs, and other parts, using hand tools.
  • Keep records of company locks and keys.
  • Set up and maintain master key systems.
  • Insert new or repaired tumblers into locks to change combinations.
  • Install door hardware such as locks and closers.
  • Open safe locks by drilling.
  • Move picklocks in cylinders to open door locks without keys.
  • Install alarm and electronic access systems.
  • Unlock cars and other vehicles.
  • Repair and adjust safes, vault doors, and vault components, using hand tools, lathes, drill presses, and welding and acetylene cutting apparatus.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Locksmiths and Safe Repairers.

  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Equipment Maintenance - Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
  • Time Management - Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
  • Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Quality Control Analysis - Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Locksmiths and Safe Repairers.

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