1

Apprentice Locksmith Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Work You Will Do The Locksmith - Module C performs standard and advanced locksmith procedures ... High School Diploma or equivalent and completion of four-year apprenticeship program * 5 Years of ...

... apprenticeship program. In addition to the experience required above, the abilities of a Lead Locksmith normally would be acquired through two or more years of experience as a journey-level locksmith ...

LOCKSMITH

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$90K/yr

Apprenticeship training programs must be recognized by a national, global, or regional accrediting agency, the California State Department of Education, the California State Department of Labor ...

Locksmith

San Diego, CA

$27.77 - $35.54/hr

Locksmith at Poway Unified School District Share on X Print Application Deadline 6/15/2026 4:00 PM ... Any combination equivalent to: completion of an apprenticeship or other formal training program and ...

Locksmith 24330

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$27.77 - $35.54/hr

Any combination equivalent to: completion of an apprenticeship or other formal training program and ... No * Yes 03 This position requires journey level experience as a Locksmith. Please select the ...

LOCKSMITH

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$90K/yr

OPTION II: Completion of a recognized** locksmith apprentice training program of at least three years duration. LICENSE A valid California Class C Driver License*** is required to perform job-related ...

As a CBRE Union Apprentice Engineer, you will perform preventive maintenance and corrective repair ... Perform welding, carpentry, furniture assembly, and locksmith tasks. * Use existing procedures to ...

Be Seen First

The Apprentice Engineer will also ensure compliance with all Douglas Emmett Engineering Standard ... locksmith and exterior site work as required and assigned. ยท Maintain contact with building ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Apprentice Locksmith information

See California salary details

$12

$25

$35

How much do apprentice locksmith jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice locksmith in California is $25.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Locksmith Apprentice Do?

As a locksmith apprentice, your responsibilities are to assist a more qualified locksmith in their daily tasks while you learn the industry. Your duties are to install locks, cut or replace keys, and repair doors and locks for clients. Locksmith apprentices use a wide variety of tools on the job, such as plug spinners, key decoders, locksmith tweezers, pinning blocks, and turning tools. In an apprentice role, you may work full-time with a single locksmith, or you may be part of a more formal program, which could include classroom instruction.

What does a typical day look like for an Apprentice Locksmith?

A typical day for an Apprentice Locksmith involves assisting experienced locksmiths with tasks such as installing, repairing, and maintaining various types of locks and security hardware, as well as responding to lockout situations. You might work at customer locations, residential homes, businesses, or in a workshop, gaining hands-on experience and learning industry best practices. Teamwork is common, as apprentices often shadow senior locksmiths and collaborate to solve unique lock and security issues. The role offers a dynamic mix of on-the-job training and diverse problem-solving challenges, making each day different and engaging.

What is an Apprentice Locksmith job?

An Apprentice Locksmith is a trainee who learns the skills and techniques needed to install, repair, and maintain locks and security systems. They work under the supervision of an experienced locksmith, gaining hands-on experience in key cutting, lock picking, and troubleshooting security devices. Apprentices may also assist with rekeying locks, installing electronic access systems, and providing emergency lockout services. This role is a stepping stone to becoming a certified locksmith through on-the-job training and, in some cases, formal education or certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Apprentice Locksmith position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Locksmith, you need basic mechanical aptitude, problem-solving abilities, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with locksmithing tools such as lock picks, key cutters, and rekeying kits, as well as a willingness to pursue certifications like Registered Locksmith (RL) or state licensure, is important. Attention to detail, reliability, customer service orientation, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this field. These abilities are critical for accurately installing, repairing, and troubleshooting locks while building trust and ensuring customer satisfaction.

More about Apprentice Locksmith jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Locksmith jobs in California? The most popular types of Locksmith jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Locksmith jobs in California? For Apprentice Locksmith jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Locksmith jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Locksmith jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Apprentice Locksmith jobs? Cities in California with the most Apprentice Locksmith job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Locksmith job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,482 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

$37.72/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

The University of Southern California (USC) department of Facilities Planning & Management (FPM) is seeking a Locksmith - Module C to join its team.

The Work You Will Do

The Locksmith - Module C performs standard and advanced locksmith procedures including but not limited to high security keying, creation and maintenance of master key systems, low voltage access control. Determines need to repair and/or replace equipment. Estimates materials required for specific job components. Performs all appropriate module tasks and demonstrates proficiency as outlined in the Locksmith Pay for Skills section, independently or as part of a team, as assigned by the supervisor. Repairs, installs and re-keys all mechanical type locks, electrified hardware and access control locks. Maintains key records and orders materials as required.

Trains journeymen and other employees specific skills and tasks as required. Provides leadership and guidance to journeymen and Zone Maintenance Technicians.

The Locksmith - Module C:

  • Provides leadership and guidance to others who perform similar work. Sets priorities and timelines and monitors the work of others.
  • Performs all necessary alterations, maintenance and repair work on University lock systems. Installs panic hardware, locksets and electrical releases. Works from blueprints, specifications and plans.
  • Operates key cutting and code cutting machines.
  • Estimates materials required for specific job components.
  • Maintains clean job site throughout duration and cleans up job site following work completion. Maintains safe working conditions for self and others. Stores and maintains supplies, tools and equipment.
  • Trains other journeymen, Zone Maintenance Technicians, or other employees' specific skills and tasks, as required. Identifies additional training or defines needs for new or continuing training which would benefit staff.
  • Prepares reports and/or maintenance records, as needed.
  • Perform all necessary alterations, maintenance and repair on access control systems.
  • Install electrified hardware and access control locks (standalone and hardwired).
  • Experience with High Security Key Systems. Ability to rekey High Security Cylinders.
  • Operate key cutting machines for high security cylinders.
  • In the event of an emergency, the employee holding this position is required to "report to duty" in accordance with the university's Emergency Operations Plan and/or the employee's department's emergency response and/or recovery plans. Familiarity with those plans and regular training to implement those plans is required. During or immediately following an emergency, the employee will be notified to assist in the emergency response efforts, and mobilize other staff members if needed.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.
  • The salary range for this position is $: 32.59 - $37.72. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Job Qualifications

The ideal candidate for the position of Locksmith - Module C meets the following preferred qualifications:

  • Related Undergraduate Study
  • Experienced with troubleshooting, maintenance and repair for Automatic Door Operators and Access Control Systems (hardwired and standalone)
  • Experienced with High Security Key Systems. Ability to rekey High Security Cylinders.
  • Familiar with ADA, Fire Door, and Life Safety Codes. Familiar with OSHPD and JCAHO rules and regulations pertaining to health facilities.

All candidates for the position of Locksmith - Module C must meet the following minimum qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent and completion of four-year apprenticeship program
  • 5 Years of journeyman experience
  • Four years' experience as a trade-related trainee may substitute for completion of a four year apprenticeship program
  • Experience performing standard trade-related procedures. General knowledge of trade-related methods, materials, tools, and equipment. General knowledge of industrial/commercial locksmithing. Experience operating key cutting and code cutting machines. Experience maintaining records and preparing reports. Familiar with city and state building codes, OSHA rules and regulations, standard safety practices and equipment, and other requirements for workplace safety.

About USC FPM

FPM (formerly named Capital Construction & Development / Facilities Management Services) is responsible for planning, developing, and maintaining the breadth of the facilities at USC, and is also dedicated to creating a safe environment for our USC community. Woven into every service, safety is of upmost importance. As FPM, this diverse group of innovative and talented professionals provide high quality facilities construction, operations and maintenance services at USC and serve as dedicated stewards of USC and FPM core values. FPM values employee recognition, accountability, collaboration, respect, and trust.

Come and join the FPM team - a team that works as trusted partners shaping an environment of innovation and excellence. Apply today!

High School Diploma or equivalent and completion of four-year apprenticeship program
5 Years of journeyman experience
Four years' experience as a trade-related trainee may substitute for completion of a four year apprenticeship program
Experience performing standard trade-related procedures. General knowledge of trade-related methods, materials, tools, and equipment. General knowledge of industrial/commercial locksmithing. Experience operating key cutting and code cutting machines. Experience maintaining records and preparing reports. Familiar with city and state building codes, OSHA rules and regulations, standard safety practices and equipment, and other requirements for workplace safety.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to thisย ย USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$148185.htmld