Locksmith

Your Fit

Income

$58K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-11.1%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Locksmith?

Locksmiths are skilled professionals specializing in the installation, repair, and maintenance of locks and security systems. They provide services ranging from cutting keys to implementing comprehensive security solutions for homes, businesses, and vehicles.

Sample job titles:

Certified Master Locksmith (CML), Lock Technician, Locksmith, Safe Technician

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Locksmith.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Locksmith earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Locksmith.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$44K per year	$50K per year	$58K per year	$79K per year	$91K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $6.76K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Locksmith do?

Work environment

Locksmiths often work in a variety of settings, including a workshop or a retail store, and frequently travel to clients' locations. The job can involve emergency call-outs, requiring flexibility in working hours. Physical dexterity and good problem-solving skills are essential in this role.

Quick task list

Installs, repairs, and maintains locks and security systems.
Cuts and duplicates keys.
Provides emergency lockout services.
Advises clients on security solutions.
Keeps records of locks and keys serviced.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Automotive Locksmithing: Specializing in vehicle locks and keyless entry systems.
Forensic Locksmithing: Working with law enforcement to analyze lock and security systems in criminal investigations.
Commercial Security Solutions: Focusing on high-security locks and electronic access systems for businesses.

Description

Locksmithing combines elements of mechanical and electronic security, requiring a broad set of skills. Locksmiths must be knowledgeable about various types of locks and key systems, including traditional mechanical locks and modern electronic access controls. They should be adept at troubleshooting and repairing these systems, often in challenging and time-sensitive situations.

The profession demands precision and attention to detail, especially in tasks like key cutting and lock fitting. Locksmiths must stay abreast of advances in security technology, as the field is continually evolving with new innovations. They also need good customer service skills, as they often work directly with clients who may be in stressful situations, such as being locked out.

Locksmiths also play an advisory role, helping clients choose the best security solutions for their needs. This aspect of the job requires staying updated on the latest security trends and understanding a wide range of security products.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Providing essential services that enhance clients' security and peace of mind.
The variety and challenge of working with different types of lock and security systems.
The opportunity to constantly learn new skills and technologies in the field.

You might make a good Locksmith if you are...

Interested in mechanics and electronics.
Skilled in problem-solving and enjoy hands-on work.
Detail-oriented with good hand-eye coordination.
Able to communicate effectively and provide good customer service.
Willing to be on call for emergencies and flexible in your working hours.

Pros:

High demand for security solutions ensures steady work opportunities.
Offers a mix of technical, hands-on work, and customer service.
Potential for independent business ownership or freelance work.
The occupation involves constant learning to keep up with security technology advancements.

Cons:

Work can be challenging and requires precision and attention to detail.
On-call hours may be necessary, including evenings and weekends for emergency services.
The job requires staying updated with evolving lock and security technologies.
Risk of injury from tools and equipment.

How to become a Locksmith

Typical education

Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required, followed by vocational training or an apprenticeship in locksmithing. Some locksmiths also acquire certifications to enhance their skills and credibility.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop classes to gain basic mechanical skills and familiarity with tools.
Mathematics, especially algebra and geometry, for understanding locking mechanisms.
Basic computer science classes to understand electronic security systems.
Courses in business and entrepreneurship if interested in running a locksmith business.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining a robotics club or similar groups to gain experience in working with mechanisms and electronics.
Part-time or summer jobs in hardware stores or related fields to gain relevant experience.
Volunteering for community service projects that involve security or mechanical repair work.

Preparation after high school

Vocational or technical school training programs in locksmithing.
Apprenticeships under experienced locksmiths to gain hands-on experience.
Certification courses offered by locksmith associations and organizations.
Continued education in advanced security systems, including digital and electronic locks.

More resources

Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) - Provides certification information, training resources, and industry updates for locksmiths.
Locksmith Career Guide - Offers information on how to become a locksmith, including training and education resources.
Safe and Vault Technicians Association (SAVTA) - Offers resources for those interested in specializing in safes and vaults.
Institutional Locksmiths' Association (ILA) - Provides networking and educational resources for locksmiths working in institutional settings.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.