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Useful experience for locksmiths includes:

• basic engineering and mechanical workshop skills
• metalwork, woodwork and carpentry
• work for a key-cutting business
• work with electronic equipment
• problem-solving work done using your hands, such as model-making
• customer service experience.

Locksmiths may do some or all of the following:

• install and repair locks and safes
• cut or make keys to fit locks and reset combination locks
• open jammed locks and safes
• advise clients on locks, safes and general security needs
• develop and design master key systems (keys that only work in particular locks and can't be copied).

Licenced locksmiths working in security may also:

• install and repair safes, alarm systems and electronic locks
• develop and design electronic key systems and alarms
• design and install electronic or access control systems (including swipe cards)
• design, install and maintain alarm and CCTV systems.

Locksmiths working with vehicles may also:

• unlock vehicles and make replacement metal keys
• produce and programme electronic transponder keys (remotes).

Demand for locksmiths steady

There is a steady demand for locksmiths doing traditional work, such as helping people who are locked out of houses or vehicles and creating and fitting metal keys and locks.

There is also some demand for locksmiths to install electronic key systems, and remote control systems that integrate CCTV, alarms and door locks.

According to the Census, 534 locksmiths worked in New Zealand in 2018.

How to get a locksmith job 

Your chances of securing a job are best if you approach a large locksmith company in person as they don't always have suitable applicants for vacancies.

If you are interested in training to work with safes, alarms or security systems this may help you to get a job.

Most locksmiths work for private businesses

Most locksmiths work for small businesses employing up to eight staff members, or for large national companies employing many locksmiths. Some locksmiths are employed by government in prisons.

Competenz

0800 526 1800 - info@competenz.org.nz - www.competenz.org.nz

Locksmiths may progress to set up their own locksmith business, or move into management roles

Locksmiths can specialise in roles such as:

Automotive Locksmith

Automotive locksmiths work with vehicle security systems, computers and keys, including transponder and proximity keys.

Security Consultant

Security consultants advise people on security requirements, and recommend and design security systems.

Locksmiths need to be:

• careful and accurate, with an eye for detail
• thorough and efficient
• honest and reliable
• good at problem solving, and able to think laterally
• able to work alone and unsupervised.