Locksmiths and safe repairers
SOC Code: 49-9094Also known as:
Certified Professional Safe Technician (CPS), CML (Certified Master Locksmith), CMS (Certified Master Safecracker), Commercial Vault Associate, Forensic Locksmith
Median Annual Salary
$50,490
-8.3% growth (2024-2034)
2K
Openings/Year
19K
Current Jobs
What Locksmiths and safe repairers Do
Repair and open locks, make keys, change locks and safe combinations, and install and repair safes.
💰 Salary
$50,490
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-8.3%
Decline
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
2K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Long-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
18,800
Projected Employment (2034)
17,200
Related Careers
Helpers--electricians
$39,890 •
+0.2% growth
Elevator and escalator installers and repairers
$106,580 •
+5.0% growth
Mechanical door repairers
$51,050 •
+11.4% growth
Millwrights
$65,170 •
+0.0% growth
Helpers--installation, maintenance, and repair workers
$38,860 •
+2.3% growth
Top Skills Required
Repairing
Critical Thinking
Time Management
Active Listening
Speaking
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Cut new or duplicate keys, using impressions or code key machines.
- Insert new or repaired tumblers into locks to change combinations.
- Move picklocks in cylinders to open door locks without keys.
- Cut new or duplicate keys, using key cutting machines.
- Open safe locks by drilling.
- Set up and maintain master key systems.
- Install door hardware, such as locks and closers.
- Keep records of company locks and keys.
- Disassemble mechanical or electrical locking devices, and repair or replace worn tumblers, springs, and other parts, using hand tools.
- Repair and adjust safes, vault doors, and vault components, using hand tools, lathes, drill presses, and welding and acetylene cutting apparatus.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Locksmiths and safe repairers
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a locksmiths and safe repairers:
Locksmithing and Safe Repair
61 degrees awarded •
2 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Locksmiths and safe repairers
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become locksmiths and safe repairers.
| # | College | Location | Related Degrees | Repit Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Charles Stuart School of Diamond Setting | Brooklyn, NY | 57 | C+ |
| 2 | North Bennet Street School | Boston, MA | 4 | C+ |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do locksmiths and safe repairers make?
The median annual salary for locksmiths and safe repairers is $50,490.
What education do locksmiths and safe repairers need?
Most locksmiths and safe repairers positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Common degree programs include Locksmithing and Safe Repair.
Is becoming locksmiths and safe repairers a good career choice?
Locksmiths and safe repairers is projected to see -8.3% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 1,700 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for locksmiths and safe repairers?
Top colleges for aspiring locksmiths and safe repairers include
Charles Stuart School of Diamond Setting, North Bennet Street School.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to locksmiths and safe repairers?
Locksmiths and safe repairers may also be known as: Certified Professional Safe Technician (CPS), CML (Certified Master Locksmith), CMS (Certified Master Safecracker), Commercial Vault Associate, Forensic Locksmith, Key Maker, Key Technician (Key Tech), Keysmith, Lock Expert, Lock Fitter, Lock Setter, Lock Technician (Lock Tech), Lockmaker, Locksmith, Locksmith Tech (Locksmith Technician), Road Service Locksmith, RST (Registered Safe Technician), Safe and Vault Service Mechanic, Safe Expert, Safe Installer.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.