Locksmith
Also known as: key and lock expert, key and lock installer, key and lock specialist, key maker
About this occupation
Locksmiths install and repair mechanical and electronic lock systems using specialized tools. They cut and make duplicated keys for their clients and open locked doors in emergency situations. Locksmiths may also provide advice on security measures.
Essential skills and knowledge
- repair lockable devices
- locking mechanisms
- cut keys
- install lockable devices
- use locksmith equipment
- read technical datasheet
- electronic locks
- carry out inventory planning
- manufacturing of door furniture from metal
- calculate quotations for security devices services
- define technical requirements
- maintain customer service
Typical tasks and preparation
From the related US occupation profile Locksmiths and Safe Repairers (O*NET 49-9094.00). Linked by an official crosswalk: related, not identical; details vary by country.
- 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.
- Typical education (US)
- High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)
- Preparation
- Job Zone 2 of 5
- Interests
- Realistic, Conventional, Investigative
Top skills: Repairing, Critical Thinking, Time Management, Active Listening, Speaking, Service Orientation
US median pay: US$51,320 a year (2025), 15,040 employed. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
Subjects this work relies on
How important each subject's knowledge is in the job itself, rated by people doing it (1 to 5).
- MetalworkO*NET: MechanicalVery important (4.2)
- English or Literature in EnglishO*NET: English LanguageImportant (3.5)
- Business Studies or EntrepreneurshipO*NET: Administration and ManagementImportant (3.5)
- Government and PoliticsO*NET: Law and GovernmentImportant (3.4)
- Mathematics or StatisticsO*NET: MathematicsImportant (3.2)
- Computer StudiesO*NET: Computers and ElectronicsImportant (3.2)
- Economics or AccountingO*NET: Economics and AccountingImportant (3.0)
- WoodworkO*NET: Building and ConstructionImportant (3.0)
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.
Preparation needed
Job Zone 1-2: Very Little to Some Preparation Needed
- Most common education (US)
- High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)
- Education
- Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.
- Experience
- 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.
- Training
- Ranges from a few days to one year of on-the-job training.
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.
Related occupations
Occupations O*NET links to this one by similar work, skills and knowledge.
- Mechanical Door Repairers
- Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers
- Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers
- Helpers--Electricians
- Millwrights
- Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers
- Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers
- Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters
- Maintenance and Repair Workers, General
- Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.