Locksmiths supply, fit, service and repair locks for homes and businesses. Some may also work as auto locksmiths, helping people locked out their car or with lost or broken car keys.

The Work

You could be:

• supplying and fitting door and window locks, security devices, window grilles and security locks in people's homes or business premises
• making keys to fit different types of new locks, either by hand or using key cutting equipment
• cutting extra keys to fit existing locks for houses, businesses and cars
• servicing and repairing all kinds of locks and security or timing devices
• resetting combination locks
• fitting combination locks and timing devices to safes
• supplying, fitting and maintaining controlled door entry systems operated by phone, swipe card, push button or infra-red technology
• providing an emergency 24-hour call-out service for people who have locked themselves out and need locks opened or changed.

Pay

The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary, depending on:

• where you work
• the size of the company or organisation you work for
• the demand for the job.

Salaries for locksmiths range from £16,000 to £35,000 a year. Some self-employed locksmiths can earn more than this.

Conditions

• You will work in a shop or workshop but will mostly travel to customers’ homes or business premises.
• You may sometimes need to work outside in all weather conditions.
• Weekend and evening work is common.
• You will often have to be available to deal with emergencies outwith normal working hours.
• You may have to wear protective clothing, such as safety goggles.

Getting In

• There are no set entry requirements, but employers may prefer you to have some subjects at National 4 or 5 including a technological subject.
• For most jobs you need to have a driving licence.
• You would require a satisfactory PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) check to show you are suitable for this type of work. Contact Disclosure Scotland for details.

This is a relatively small profession and most firms are fairly small. Look for jobs with locksmith companies, specialist workshops, shops, hardware stores and security manufacturers.

Job Outlook Scotland

Job Outlook Scotland and UK

  Scotland

2018

16995

1.3 %

RISE

2023

17224

  United Kingdom

2018

174003

1.7 %

RISE

2023

176978

LMI data powered by EMSI UK

What Does it Take?

You need:

• to be honest, trustworthy and discreet
• a strong sense of responsibility
• an interest in mechanical and electronic gadgets
• good problem solving skills
• a logical approach with attention to detail
• excellent practical and hand skills
• good wood and metal work skills
• good communication and customer service skills
• number skills to work out quotes, estimates and prepare invoices if you are self-employed.

Training

• Training is usually on the job with a qualified and experienced locksmith.
• There are short courses provided by the Master Locksmiths Association. Trainees are encouraged to apply for student membership of the BLI, although membership for initially training courses is not mandatory like before.
• Instead of the 5 day general locksmithing course, MLA now run a modular programme for beginners where they get to choose from 4 different initial modules. They also run a two-day safe course.
• Non BLI members would have to take the two day foundation module before progressing to any others. The modular programme was developed to enable trainees to take the elements relevant to them and thereby help them save money. An example would be, those with good joinery skills may not want to take the lock fitting module and thereby save them one days' worth of training.  
• The MLA runs courses for experienced locksmiths to update their knowledge. It is important to keep up to date with new products and developments.

Getting On

• Once you have gained experience, you may be able to gain promotion to a supervisory position.
• Alternatively, you may be able to move into self-employment and set up your own business.

More Information

For adult entrants, employers may prefer interest or experience in carpentry or engineering.

Contacts

The following organisations may be able to provide further information.