Locksmithing Careers

To be successful in locksmithing careers, you need to be both precise and creative at problem solving. As a locksmithing student, you learn about a wide range of locks, keys, alarms, and security systems.

Repair & Maintenance | Airline/Aviation | Automotive Repair | Electricians |Electronics & Computer Repair | Gunsmithing | HVAC | Locksmithing | Motorcycle/Small Engine Mechanics | Plumbing | Appliance Repair

At Penn Foster Career School and at Ashworth University you learn how they work and how to troubleshoot and repair them. Much of a locksmith's work is on-call as they work mostly to install security systems and re-key locks for residential and commercial customers.

Education and Training

The coursework for a typical locksmith training program can take anywhere from days to months depending on where you do your training. In general you would cover courses in:

• Safety and stock handling
• Hand and power tools
• Lock and key theory
• Master keying
• High security locks
• Electrical theory
• Welding
• Safe deposit locks
• Safes and vaults
• Night depositories

In addition you can chose from a variety of existing online education programs. Many online training programs allow you to complete your program of study through flexible programs, studying where and when they want to. Good grades in math, English and science, and extra training in welding, electronics, carpentry, electronics, and metalworking is an asset. Many employers require an apprenticeship to be completed. An apprenticeship program is comprised of 6,000 hours of on-the-job and in-school training. The in-school component is comprised of 2 eight week blocks of courses.

Expected Salary

The average locksmith salary is about $35,000 a year. Some locksmiths learn their trade through on-the-job training although most states require locksmiths to be licensed. Working as a trainee at a lock shop you can earn anywhere from $6.00 to $28.00.

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