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Key Cutter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Automotive Key Technician

Newark, CA ยท On-site

$24 - $26/hr

The van is stocked with current-generation key-cutting machines and programming software. This is active, outdoor work -- you'll be on your feet, handling a wide range of vehicles, in all kinds of ...

Automotive Key Technician

Richmond, CA ยท On-site

$24 - $26/hr

The van is stocked with current-generation key-cutting machines and programming software. This is active, outdoor work -- you'll be on your feet, handling a wide range of vehicles, in all kinds of ...

Automotive Key Technician

Richmond, CA ยท On-site

$24 - $26/hr

The van is stocked with current-generation key-cutting machines and programming software. This is active, outdoor work -- you'll be on your feet, handling a wide range of vehicles, in all kinds of ...

Automotive Key Technician

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$24 - $26/hr

The van is stocked with current-generation key-cutting machines and programming software. This is active, outdoor work -- you'll be on your feet, handling a wide range of vehicles, in all kinds of ...

As a key member of our rapidly growing organization, the Production Cutter contributes to our success by preparing specialty cuts of meat in a timely and efficient manner to meet our customer ...

Production Cutter

Brisbane, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $24/hr

As a key member of our rapidly growing organization, the Production Cutter contributes to our success by preparing specialty cuts of meat in a timely and efficient manner to meet our customer ...

As a key member of our rapidly growing organization, the Production Cutter contributes to our success by preparing specialty cuts of meat in a timely and efficient manner to meet our customer ...

Production Cutter

Richmond, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

As a key member of our rapidly growing organization, the Production Cutter contributes to our success by preparing specialty cuts of meat in a timely and efficient manner to meet our customer ...

Production Cutter

Union City, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $24/hr

As a key member of our rapidly growing organization, the Production Cutter contributes to our success by preparing specialty cuts of meat in a timely and efficient manner to meet our customer ...

As a key member of our rapidly growing organization, the Production Cutter contributes to our success by preparing specialty cuts of meat in a timely and efficient manner to meet our customer ...

Meat Cutter

Santa Ana, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Meat Cutter You will be responsible for providing a variety of fresh and unique meat items to our ... Key Responsibilities * Works safely at all times and follows all established safety guidelines and ...

Meat Cutter

North Hills, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Meat Cutter You will be responsible for providing a variety of fresh and unique meat items to our ... Key Responsibilities * Works safely at all times and follows all established safety guidelines and ...

Meat Cutter

Van Nuys, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Meat Cutter You will be responsible for providing a variety of fresh and unique meat items to our ... Key Responsibilities * Works safely at all times and follows all established safety guidelines and ...

Meat Cutter

Anaheim, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Meat Cutter You will be responsible for providing a variety of fresh and unique meat items to our ... Key Responsibilities * Works safely at all times and follows all established safety guidelines and ...

Meat Cutter

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Meat Cutter You will be responsible for providing a variety of fresh and unique meat items to our ... Key Responsibilities * Works safely at all times and follows all established safety guidelines and ...

Meat Cutter

Glendale, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Meat Cutter You will be responsible for providing a variety of fresh and unique meat items to our ... Key Responsibilities * Works safely at all times and follows all established safety guidelines and ...

Meat Cutter

North Hills, CA ยท On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Meat Cutter You will be responsible for providing a variety of fresh and unique meat items to our ... Key Responsibilities * Works safely at all times and follows all established safety guidelines and ...

Meat Cutter

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Meat Cutter - New Store Opening - Torrance You will be responsible for providing a variety of fresh ... Key Responsibilities * Works safely at all times and follows all established safety guidelines and ...

As a key member of our rapidly growing organization, the Production Cutter contributes to our success by preparing specialty cuts of meat in a timely and efficient manner to meet our customer ...

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Showing results 1-20

Key Cutter information

See California salary details

$9

$12

$13

How much do key cutter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for key cutter in California is $12.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.39 and $13.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a key cutter?

A key cutter is a professional who specializes in duplicating keys and cutting new ones based on existing samples or codes. They use specialized machines to accurately shape and cut keys for homes, vehicles, offices, and other locks. Key cutters may also provide related services such as repairing locks, programming electronic keys, and offering security advice. Their expertise ensures that new keys work smoothly with the intended lock, maintaining safety and convenience for customers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a key cutter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Key Cutter, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of lock mechanisms, often supported by on-the-job training or vocational courses. Familiarity with key cutting machines, duplicators, and sometimes computerized key code systems is typically required. Excellent customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and patience help you communicate effectively with clients and address unique key-related needs. These competencies ensure accurate key duplication, customer satisfaction, and the security of both clients and properties.

What are some common challenges faced by key cutters in their daily work?

Key Cutters often encounter challenges such as working with a wide variety of key types and security levels, which requires attention to detail and knowledge of different cutting techniques. Handling specialized or high-security keys can be complex and may require additional training or equipment. Additionally, Key Cutters must maintain precision under time pressure, especially in busy retail or locksmith environments, to ensure customer satisfaction and security. Effective communication with customers is also essential to understand their needs and provide accurate service.

What is the difference between Key Cutter vs Locksmith?

AspectKey CutterLocksmith
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required, but some may have training or licensesRequires certifications, licenses, and training in lock systems
Work EnvironmentRetail stores, hardware shops, or mobile servicesVaried settings including residential, commercial, and automotive
Employer & IndustryHardware stores, key duplication shopsSecurity companies, locksmith shops, automotive services
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for key duplication servicesCompared for lock repair, installation, and security solutions

Key Cutters primarily focus on duplicating keys, often working in retail or hardware stores with minimal certifications. Locksmiths have broader responsibilities, including lock installation, repair, and security services, requiring certifications and licenses. While both roles involve working with locks and keys, locksmiths offer a wider range of services and typically operate in more varied environments.

What are popular job titles related to Key Cutter jobs in CA?

For Key Cutter jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Key Cutter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $25,659 per year, or $12.3 per hour.

Automotive Key Technician

Newark, CA โ€ข On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance

Daybreak Metro, a well-established repossession company operating across California, is looking for an experienced automotive key technician to join our in-house locksmith team. You'll handle live jobs across the Bay Area with a fully equipped mobile key van.
About the Role

The mobile key van can be staged out of San Jose, Newark, Richmond, or Benicia — whichever location works best for you — and you'll travel to yards across all four locations as needed. The van is stocked with current-generation key-cutting machines and programming software.
This is active, outdoor work — you'll be on your feet, handling a wide range of vehicles, in all kinds of weather.
What You'll Do

  • Perform key cutting, automotive key programming, and lock servicing across a variety of vehicles
  • Work live jobs across Bay Area locations
  • Apply advanced locksmith and programming techniques independently
  • Travel between yards as part of a mobile key van team
What We're Looking For

  • Minimum one year of experience in automotive key programming, locksmithing, or a related field
  • Dependable, punctual, and detail-oriented
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
  • Own cell phone
  • 23 years of age or older (insurance requirement)
  • Able to pass a drug screening
  • Current California Locksmith license, or eligibility to obtain one through the State of California
Schedule & Pay

  • Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–4:00 PM
  • $24 -26/hour, depending on experience
Benefits

  • 80% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 100% company-paid life insurance
  • 401(k) with 4% company match
  • Company-paid California Locksmith license