Locksmiths

Employers

Approximately 17,600 locksmiths are employed in the United States. The largest demand for locksmiths is in larger metropolitan areas. Locksmith shops or large hardware or department stores hire many locksmiths. Numerous large factories, resorts, hotels and industrial facilities hire locksmiths to install and change their locks and to maintain their security systems. Many locksmiths open their own businesses and provide services to home or automobile owners, as well as to hospitals, hotels, motels, businesses, government facilities, and housing developments.

The increased use of security systems in businesses and residences offers many additional employment options for locksmiths. These jobs may require additional training and skills, however.

Starting Out

Since locksmithing is a vocation that requires skill and experience, it is unlikely that the untrained job seeker will be able to begin immediately in the capacity of locksmith. Beginners might consider contacting local shops to inquire about apprenticeships. In some cases, skilled locksmiths may be willing to teach their trade to a promising worker in exchange for low-cost labor. Another method is to check with state employment offices for business and industry listings of job openings for locksmiths. Some locksmith trade organizations may post job openings or apprenticeships.

Students enrolled in a trade school can obtain career counseling and job placement assistance. Trade school graduates should be qualified to begin work in established locksmith shops doing basic work both in the shop and on the road; others become in-house locksmiths for businesses and other establishments.