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Apprentice Locksmith Jobs in Wheeling, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Apprentice Locksmith information

See Wheeling, IL salary details

$13

$26

$36

How much do apprentice locksmith jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice locksmith in Wheeling, IL is $26.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $31.59 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 popular job titles related to Apprentice Locksmith jobs in Wheeling, IL? For Apprentice Locksmith jobs in Wheeling, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Wheeling, IL are hiring for Apprentice Locksmith jobs? Cities near Wheeling, IL with the most Apprentice Locksmith job openings:
Apprentice Locksmith jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Locksmith job openings in Wheeling, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,109 per year, or $27 per hour.

Security and Building Maintenance Technician

Elmhurst University

Elmhurst, IL

$26.50 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

As a member of the Building Maintenance team, the Security and Building Maintenance Technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance, repair, troubleshooting, and documentation of physical access infrastructure. This position performs skilled locksmith work involving mechanical and electronic locking systems, key and credential management, access control systems, alarms, security cameras, and related door hardware. The Security and Building Maintenance Technician supports a safe and secure campus environment through preventative maintenance, emergency response, system administration, and collaboration with Facilities Management colleagues and the Public Safety team.

Position Status: Non-Exempt

Salary Range: $26.50 - $28.50. This is the expected hourly rate for this position. The actual salary offered will depend on a candidate's experience and education, and departmental budget.
REPORTING AND SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIP(S):
Direct reporting relationship to: Building Maintenance Supervisor

Responsibilities
  • Performs locksmith duties including the installation, maintenance, repair, replacement, and rekeying of mechanical and electronic locks, cylinders, keys, and door hardware.
  • Maintains the campus access control system, including programming access levels, schedules, credentials, and security permissions.
  • Installs, repairs, troubleshoots, and adjusts access control components including card readers, electronic locks, door contacts, motion detectors, and alarm devices.
  • Maintains key control records, access control databases, system documentation, and related security records.
  • Conducts preventative maintenance and inspections of locks, locking systems, door hardware, access control devices, alarms, and related equipment.
  • Responds to service requests and security-related incidents involving locks, keys, door hardware, access control systems, and security devices.
  • Assists with testing, troubleshooting, upgrades, and implementation of security and access control technologies.
  • Collaborates with Public Safety, Facilities Management, Information Services, contractors, and other campus stakeholders to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of security systems.
  • Provides technical guidance and training to authorized personnel on the operation and use of access control and security systems.
  • Ensures work is performed in accordance with applicable safety standards, building codes, manufacturer specifications, and University policies.

Other Duties and Responsibilities

  • Demonstrates a strong commitment to continuous improvement.
  • Supports the University's mission, vision and values.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

  • 2 to 3 years of experience in locksmithing, electronic security systems, or a related field.
  • Experience maintaining, and troubleshooting electronic access control systems.
  • Working knowledge of mechanical and electronic locks, key systems, door hardware, and security systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, technical manuals, and system documentation.
  • Proficiency with computer-based access control and security management software.
  • Ability to work independently, prioritize assignments, and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong interpersonal, customer service, and communication skills.
  • Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Completion of a locksmith apprenticeship, locksmith certification program, electronics trade school, or equivalent technical training.
  • Associate degree in Electronics, Electrical Technology, Security Systems Technology, or a related field.
  • Certified Locksmith designation through a recognized professional organization.
  • Experience in higher education, healthcare, government, or large institutional facilities.
  • Experience with enterprise access control systems.
  • Experience with CCTV/video management systems and intrusion detection systems.
  • Knowledge of low-voltage wiring, network-connected security devices, and integrated security systems.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements
The essential functions of this position require regular movement between indoor and outdoor campus locations, with exposure to varying weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold. Work is often physically demanding in nature and may require walking, navigating uneven or slippery surfaces, climbing stairs and ladders, bending, kneeling, and standing for extended periods. Required abilities include frequent use of fine motor skills to push, pull, or maneuver a range of equipment. Work requires regular lifting of objects up to 50 pounds, and occasional lifting of up to 100 pounds. Qualified applicants who can perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodations will be considered.

Benefits

An overview of Elmhurst University benefits is available here.

Instructions to Applicants
This position is designated by Elmhurst University as being safety sensitive. Per University policy, candidates for employment in safety-sensitive positions must comply with pre-employment drug testing, and employment in these positions is contingent upon completion of a drug test with satisfactory results. With consideration for the working conditions and physical requirements for this position, as described in the section above, a physical examination is required as well. Both the drug testing and physical examination are conducted at the University's expense in an approved facility within one week of acceptance of a written offer of employment. Candidates may communicate with the testing facility and with Human Resources to explain any positive test results. For additional information regarding this policy, candidates may email Human Resources at hr@elmhurst.edu for assistance

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