Position Overview
There was a time when locksmiths were called upon to either fix locks or fabricate new keys to replace lost ones.
Now, their work description has changed, owing to the many complex locking systems that there are in the market.
Basically, a locksmith’s work is to install new locks and maintain existing ones.
Position Requirements
Even though there is no formal education requirement to work as a locksmith, it pays if you possess some exposure to the work.
Usually, a high school diploma or a GED equivalent is sufficient to work as a locksmith.
Skills and Abilities
As far as skills are concerned, you must know the standard, as well as complex locking systems inside out.
Basically, your work will include installing, maintaining, and repairing various types of locking systems and security devices. Ability to cut and issue keys, handle re-keying work, and repairing locking hardware will all be required if you want to work as a locksmith.
Technically, a locksmith’s work is complicated, as there are so many facets to it.
If you feel that you are up to it, here is a list of job duties that you can go through in order to determine what the work actually is:
Locksmith Job Description
• Talk to clients to decide on their specific locking systems installation requirements.
• Provide clients with information on possible solutions for their homes and offices.
• Acquire approvals for selected locking systems installation.
• Install and maintain locking systems and security devices.
• Check all installed systems in order to ensure that they work properly.
• Install and maintain door hardware, such as standard locks and complex locking systems.
• Cut new keys or duplicate ones, ensuring that they are stamped for verification purposes.
• Disassemble locks and repair and replace tumblers as required.
• Issue fabricated keys, ensuring that records are maintained against them.
• Perform drilling work in order to open safe locks.
• Maintain and repair different types of building blocks, such as cylindrical, unit, and mortise and rim.
• Maintain master key systems by ensuring that accurate record is maintained.
• Determine locking devices and system requirements, in order to secure them during renovation processes.
• Interpret hardware schedules and blueprints in order to determine established applicable hardware specifications.
• Create and maintain an inventory of parts, tools, and equipment required for handling locking systems.
• Develop and implement keying schemes for master control keys, as well as individual locks.
• Maintain records of all installed locks, and repair and maintenance work performed on locking and alarm systems.