Unlock a rewarding career as a Locksmith.

This role combines precision craftsmanship with cutting-edge security solutions, offering the opportunity to create and implement innovative locking systems for a wide range of products and applications across residential, commercial, industrial, and automotive sectors.

As a Locksmith you’ll be at the forefront of developing and producing secure locking mechanisms and other security products. Your expertise will be crucial in designing, fabricating, and quality-testing locks that meet the highest standards of security and functionality. This role goes beyond traditional locksmithing, incorporating modern manufacturing techniques and materials to create state-of-the-art security solutions for diverse industries.

As a Locksmith you’ll spend your time meeting with clients, doing site inspections, making recommendations and providing quotes and solutions for security requests.

In this role you will often collaborate with design teams, engineers, and production staff to ensure that locking systems are not only secure but also integrate seamlessly with the aesthetics and functionality of furnishings and other products. Your work will span mechanical locks, electronic access control systems, CCTV, and alarm systems, providing a varied and interesting day-to-day experience. While your focus will be on manufacturing, the skills you develop will be applicable across various specialisations within the locksmithing field.

Your role may include duties as follows: 

  1. Create new lock designs and prototypes for various furnishings and security products
  2. Supervise the production process of locks and security systems, ensuring quality and consistency
  3. Conduct rigorous testing of manufactured locks to ensure they meet industry standards and client specifications
  4. Provide expert advice to design teams on integrating locking mechanisms into furniture and other products
  5. Research and implement new technologies and materials to enhance lock security and efficiency

While formal qualifications are not always mandatory to start in this field, many employers prefer candidates with relevant training or experience. Employers are often looking for job seekers to take on a formal apprenticeship. Here are steps you can take to become a Locksmith:

  1. Complete high school with a focus on subjects like mathematics and engineering.
  2. Consider undertaking a Certificate II in Engineering Pathways (MEM20422) for an introduction to manufacturing and engineering.
  3. Research training and apprenticeships, including Certificate III in Locksmithing (MEM30819)
  4. Look for opportunities promoted by employers online.
  5. Even if there are no jobs advertised but you have an interest in working with the employer, send through a letter and your resume expressing your interest to work in the industry
Also Known As:
  • Security Technician
  • Lock Technician
  • Key Cutter
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a locksmith include:

  • Technical proficiency
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a locksmith include:

  • Innovative
  • Craftsmanship
  • Trustworthy
  • Integrity
  • Reliable
  • Investigative – “Thinker”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Design and Technologies (7-10)
  • Engineering
Core School Subjects:
  • General Mathematics
  • Essential English
  • Engineering Skills

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for a Locksmith can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$50,000
Median
$65,000
High
$80,000

An apprenticeship with a manufacturer is the best pathway to gain employment as a Locksmith. You can undertake the following qualifications as an apprenticeship:

  • Certificate III in Locksmithing (MEM30819)

An apprenticeship is open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice you will combine work with formal training, allowing you to gain practical skills and knowledge in a specific trade while earning a salary.

Duration: Apprenticeships typically last up to 4 years for full-time participants. Part-time apprenticeships may take longer, depending on the individual’s work schedule and training progress.

Work and study combination: As an apprentice, you will work either full-time or part-time while receiving formal training from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). School-based apprenticeships may be available.

Eligibility: Generally, apprenticeships do not require any formal qualifications to enter, making them accessible to a wide range of individuals, including if you are a school leaver or someone looking to change careers. There are minimum age requirements and there may be other eligibility criteria.

Completion: On completion you will receive a nationally recognised trade qualification, showcasing your skill and experience.

Skills, qualifications, accreditations and licences

You may choose to pursue other training or certifications, licences and tickets. Qualifications and skills may be required to progress to supervisor or team leader positions.

For career advancement:

  • Certificate IV in Leadership and Management (BSB40520)
  • Certificate IV in Business (BSB40120)

Holding a degree in manufacturing, human resources, finance, economics, marketing or management can be helpful if you are considering taking a step into leadership or a business ownership position.

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

Explore the general manufacturing and engineering

The general manufacturing and engineering industry is a diverse and dynamic area that forms the backbone of the country’s industrial capabilities. From precision components to large-scale machinery, this industry encompasses a wide range of activities that drive innovation, productivity, and economic growth across multiple sectors of the economy.

General manufacturing and engineering industry