Locksmiths and Safe Repairers

Career Overview

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

Also Known As

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

Alternate Job Titles

Access Control Technician (Access Control Tech)
Certified Professional Safe Technician (CPS)
CML (Certified Master Locksmith)
CMS (Certified Master Safecracker)
Commercial Vault Associate
Forensic Locksmith
Key Maker
Key Technician (Key Tech)
Keysmith
Lock Expert
Lock Fitter
Lock Setter
Lock Technician (Lock Tech)
Lockmaker
Locksmith

What You'll Do

In this role, your typical responsibilities include:

Cut new or duplicate keys, using impressions or code key machines.
Insert new or repaired tumblers into locks to change combinations.
Move picklocks in cylinders to open door locks without keys.
Cut new or duplicate keys, using key cutting machines.
Open safe locks by drilling.
Set up and maintain master key systems.
Install door hardware, such as locks and closers.

Emerging Responsibilities

As this field evolves, you may also:

Read blueprints and project specification manuals to recommend appropriate hardware and electronic locking devices.

Knowledge You'll Use

You'll need solid knowledge in these areas:

Mechanical
Customer and Personal Service
Public Safety and Security

Key Abilities

This career requires key abilities in:

Arm-Hand Steadiness
Near Vision
Finger Dexterity
Visualization
Control Precision
Oral Expression
Manual Dexterity
Information Ordering
Deductive Reasoning
Problem Sensitivity

Work Style

People who excel in this career typically demonstrate:

Attention to Detail
Dependability
Integrity
Cautiousness
Perseverance

What Matters in This Career

This career tends to satisfy these work values:

Independence
Working Conditions
Achievement
Relationships
Recognition

Education & Preparation

Typical Education: High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED)

On-the-Job Training: Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years

Education Details: Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.

Experience Required: Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.

Technology You'll Use

Popular Technologies & Software

Intuit QuickBooks
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft Outlook
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Word

Tools & Equipment

Acetylene torches
Automatic metal lathes
Bench drill presses
Bent needlenose pliers
Borescopes
Carpenters squares
Center punch sets
Code key machines
Computer inkjet printers
Cordless drills
Crescent wrenches
Crowbars
Cutting dies
Deadblow hammers
Depth keys

Work Environment

Telephone Conversations
E-Mail
Contact With Others
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams

Salary & Job Market

Salary Percentile	Annual Wage
Entry-Level (10th percentile)	$34,750
Median	$50,490
Top Earners (90th percentile)	$79,340

Workers Employed Nationally: 15,550