Locksmith Jobs: The Pros And Cons Of Becoming A Locksmith

By Author: Ronald Ferguson
Total Articles: 43
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Some benefits and drawbacks of becoming a locksmith are obvious, but other pros and cons of locksmith jobs will emerge as employers and job seekers gain more knowledge in the industry. Is locksmithing the right career for you?

Locksmiths offer a wide variety of services that are vital in improving the safety and security of their clients. Individuals who wish to become a locksmith can learn the trade through on the job training experiences or by attending vocational schools that offer courses in locksmithing. However, keep in mind that locksmiths may have to work in bad weather conditions and respond to house calls from distressed clients. If you are an aspiring locksmith and wish to make a career out of locksmithing, please continue to read on in order to learn some of the pros and cons that come with this field.

Job Description and Responsibilities

Locksmith cut, duplicate or make new keys using key cutting machines, impressions or key code machines. Locksmiths also install locks and other security hardware in doors and modify electrical and mechanical locking devices. Locksmith jobs ...
... also require locksmiths to maintain locking systems by repairing and replacing worn springs, tumblers and other components. Master key systems are also maintained and set up by a locksmith. Pinner, for instance, has locksmiths that keep records of company keys and locks. Aside from the duties mentioned above, locksmiths also solve problems by manipulating cylinders in working order to open locks that have no keys and by opening the locks of vaults and safes by using drills and other necessary tools. Electronic access and alarm systems can also be installed by a locksmith. Edgware locksmiths often travel to customers that are in need of their assistance.

Job Expectations and Salary Info

According to the Office for National Statistics, in May 2011 the mean annual salary for a locksmith was around £23,700 and the mean hourly salary was about £11.50. Job employment is expected to grow by about 18% between 2010 and 2020, which is about average among all other careers.

Education and Training Requirements

Since locksmithing doesn’t require any formal education and training, employers will usually hire locksmiths that at least have a high school diploma. Locksmithing is often learned through long-term, on the job training experiences. Some locksmiths get trained through locksmithing programs offered by vocational schools or postsecondary institutions. Locksmiths are expected to have the following traits and skills:

The ability to use different types of machinery and tools like key cutting machines and drills

Complex knowledge on various types of locking systems and hardware

Troubleshooting and problem solving skills
Pleasing communication and social skills to interact with clients

Adequate manual dexterity to utilize tools and manipulate locking mechanisms

Since most locking systems are integrated with mechanical, electrical and electronic components, locksmiths with a working knowledge of each type of component will have the edge on getting hired and may qualify for more locksmith jobs.

About the Author:

Ronald Ferguson is a freelance writer who enjoys the challenges of creativity and attention to detail. His professional career covered 10-plus years in the public and private sectors, having created and edited numerous business documents, including operations manuals, job specifications, letters, and internal memos. He became also a writer of some company like Locksmith Wembley. For more info about locksmith, Click here.