Locksmith Job Information | National Careers Service

The work

Your work as a locksmith would typically include:

• fitting locks to doors and windows
• servicing and repairing locks and other security devices
• cutting copies of keys and making new keys
• fitting combination locks and timing devices to safes
• providing a 24-hour call-out service to people locked out of their home or business
• providing an emergency service after break-ins, securing doors, changing locks and resetting security systems
• advising customers on the most suitable locks or safety devices for their needs.

You may also sell, install and maintain other security mechanisms and systems, and fit safes and security devices like closed circuit television (CCTV).

You could specialise in a particular area like repairing and key cutting for antique locks.

Hours

You would usually work around 40 hours a week, which could include evenings and weekends. If you work for a firm that provides a 24-hour service, you may have to work some nights to respond to emergency call-outs.

You could be based in a shop, cutting keys and selling locks and other security devices, but most locksmiths travel to visit customers on site.

Some of your work will be inside, but you may also have to work outside in all weather conditions, for example when fitting or repairing window or external door locks.

Income

Trainees can start at around £13,000 a year. With experience earnings can be from around £14,000 to over £25,000.

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Entry requirements

You can train as a locksmith on courses run by the British Locksmiths Institute (BLI), which is part of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA). The MLA is recognised as the authoritative body for locksmithing by the police, the Home Office, the British Standards Institute and the Association of British Insurers. The MLA qualifications are recognised throughout the industry.

Before you start a course you will be asked to apply for student membership of the BLI. You will also need to supply two references and have Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) clearance.

• Criminal Records Bureau (Home Office website)

It could be useful if you have experience in carpentry or engineering.

Courses are run at the Master Locksmiths Association’s (MLA) headquarters in Daventry, Northamptonshire. See the MLA website for details.

As an alternative, you may be able to start as a trainee with a local company or with a franchise. As there are no formal apprenticeships in locksmithing, you will need to contact locksmiths to see if they are prepared to take you on. Check the 'Find a Locksmith' database on the MLA website for details of local locksmiths.

Training and development

As a trainee locksmith, you would receive on-the-job training.

You can develop your skills and knowledge, and keep up to date with new products and developments, by completing Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) short courses. See the MLA website for details.

You may be able to complete NVQ levels 2 and 3 in Providing Security, Emergency and Alarm Systems.

Skills and knowledge

To be a locksmith you should have:

• excellent practical skills
• good communication and customer care skills
• a patient approach, with the ability to pay attention to detail
• carpentry and metalwork skills
• problem-solving skills
• an interest in electronic and mechanical equipment.

More information

Master Locksmiths Association
5d Great Central Way
Woodford Halse
Daventry
Northants
NN11 3PZ
Tel: 01327 262255
www.locksmiths.co.uk

Opportunities

You could work for locksmithing companies, shops and security manufacturers. DIY and hardware stores, shoe repairers, and some large department stores also provide keycutting services and employ locksmiths.

Most companies are quite small. Some of the larger, national companies operate franchises, mainly providing 24-hour mobile and emergency services.

You could become self-employed. However, the sector is competitive, and you would need to do careful market research to see if there is a need for a locksmithing service in your area. You can get advice on starting a business from your local Business Link.

• Business Link