Locksmith

Career path and progression

You could:

• work for a national locksmith company
• specialise in domestic, commercial or vehicle security
• set up your own business

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• customer service skills
• knowledge of public safety and security
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• analytical thinking skills
• persistence and determination
• the ability to work well with your hands
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• have a full driving licence
• pass background checks

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Design and Technology - Locksmiths work with tools and materials every day – removing broken locks, fitting new ones, and cutting keys. Understanding how mechanical devices are constructed and how different materials behave is essential for installing and repairing lock mechanisms in doors, windows, and safes.
• Engineering - Locksmiths work with precision mechanical systems and increasingly complex security devices, including electronic locks and timing mechanisms. Understanding engineering principles helps them diagnose faults, maintain equipment, and work with the moving parts inside lock assemblies.
• Electronics - Locksmiths increasingly work with electronic security systems, keypad locks, and smart locks that use circuits, sensors, and digital components. Understanding how electronic systems function is important when installing, programming, and troubleshooting modern security devices.

Also relevant

• Physics - Locksmiths need to understand how mechanical forces work inside lock mechanisms – things like springs, pins, levers, and tension. Knowledge of materials and how they respond to stress also helps when choosing the right lock for a particular door or frame.
• Mathematics - Locksmiths measure doors, frames, and lock components precisely to ensure a correct fit. They also calculate costs and provide quotes to customers, and need to work with dimensions and tolerances when cutting keys or fitting security hardware.
• Business - Locksmiths often set up their own businesses or work as sole traders, so they need to manage finances, price jobs accurately, and build a customer base. Understanding how to market services and handle day-to-day business operations is valuable for those going self-employed.
• Computer Science - Locksmiths who specialise in electronic and smart security systems may need to configure networked locks, access control software, and connected devices. Understanding how digital systems communicate helps when setting up and troubleshooting smart home or commercial security installations.