Locksmith
Install and fix locks to keep people's homes and businesses secure. Help people who have accidentally locked themselves out.
About the job
What it's like
You would install and fix locks to keep people’s homes and businesses secure. You’d help people who have accidently locked themselves out. You’d also sell locks and advise customers on the best options for their needs.
You would:
Fit locks to doors and windows
Check and repair locks and other security devices
Cut copies of keys and make new keys
Fit combination locks and timers to safes
Repair locks on motor vehicles
Advise customers on the most suitable locks or safety devices for their needs
If people are locked out of their home or business you would go out to help them get in. You could be called out at any time of the day or night. You’d also provide an emergency service to change locks, reset security systems and make a place secure if there has been a break-in.
You might sell, install and maintain other security mechanisms and systems. You could also fit safes and security devices like closed circuit television (CCTV).
Some locksmiths 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.
Environment
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 windows or external door locks.
Travel
You would often have to travel to visit customers on site.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Transport Construction and built environment
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- subcontracting
- security systems
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- taking initiative
- developing a plan
- concentrating
- attention to detail
- problem solving
- resourceful
- innovative
- adaptability
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Design and Manufacture
Engineering Science
Practical Craft Skills
Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
Skills for Work: Practical Experiences: Construction and Engineering
Foundation Apprenticeship: Automotive
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
You would need a good general education including English and Maths. Some employers will require qualifications at SCQF level 4 to 6.
There is currently no nationally recognised qualification in locksmithing but the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) runs a range of locksmith training courses.
It is important to research training courses thoroughly; beware of courses that try to sell you tools. The tools you’ll need will very much depend on the type of work you’ll be doing and also the area of the country you’re based in.
This is a relatively small profession and opportunities may be limited.
Qualifications and experience that show problem-solving skills and practical skills working with wood, metal, mechanical or electronic equipment such as:
Skills for Work Construction Engineering (SCQF level 3)
Construction Crafts (SCQF level 4/5)
Engineering Skills (SCQF level 4)
To be approved for membership of the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme run by Disclosure Scotland
To have a driving licence, for most jobs
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Locksmith'
