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Locksmith Apprenticeship Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview The Locksmith apprentice, under direction, repairs and installs locks and door hardware, duplicates key, recodes locks, and performs general carpentry work related to locksmithing.

Locksmith TechnicianHouston, TXDescription Technician Reports to Operations Team Apprentice or Journeyman. Install, service and repair electro-mechanical locks and related door hardware in commercial ...

... an apprentice and journeyman level. Install new equipment or replacement parts for existing ... Requires Locksmith certification or the ability to obtain one within the first year. * Requires ...

Locksmith Apprenticeship information

See Texas salary details

$12

$24

$33

How much do locksmith apprenticeship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for locksmith apprenticeship in Texas is $24.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $28.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a locksmith apprenticeship?

A locksmith apprenticeship is a structured training program where individuals learn the skills and knowledge required to become a professional locksmith. Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced locksmiths, gaining hands-on experience in tasks such as key cutting, lock installation, repair, and security system maintenance. The apprenticeship typically includes both practical training and classroom instruction, covering topics like lock mechanisms, security codes, and customer service. Upon completion, apprentices may be eligible for certification or licensing, depending on local regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a locksmith apprentice?

To thrive as a Locksmith Apprentice, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of security systems, typically supported by a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with key cutting machines, lock picking tools, and relevant safety procedures is important, and some states may require registration or licensing. Good problem-solving abilities, customer service skills, and a willingness to learn help apprentices excel in this hands-on field. These skills ensure apprentices can effectively support experienced locksmiths, build client trust, and progress toward independent licensure.

What are some common challenges faced by locksmith apprentices during their training period?

Locksmith apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering complex lock mechanisms, developing precise manual dexterity, and adapting to rapidly evolving security technologies. The apprenticeship typically involves hands-on problem-solving, which can be demanding when responding to emergency calls or working in unfamiliar environments. Additionally, apprentices must learn to communicate effectively with clients and work efficiently alongside experienced locksmiths, all while adhering to safety and security protocols.

What is the difference between Locksmith Apprenticeship vs Locksmith Technician?

AspectLocksmith ApprenticeshipLocksmith Technician
CredentialsOn-the-job training, sometimes state licensingOften requires licensing or certification, technical training
Work EnvironmentApprentices work under supervision, learning hands-on skillsIndependent work, installing, repairing locks, security systems
Industry UsageEntry-level training program for aspiring locksmithsFull-fledged professional performing locksmith services

The main difference is that a Locksmith Apprenticeship is a training program for beginners learning the trade, while a Locksmith Technician is a fully qualified professional performing locksmith services independently. Apprenticeships provide foundational skills, whereas technicians have completed training and certification to work independently.

What are popular job titles related to Locksmith Apprenticeship jobs in Texas?

For Locksmith Apprenticeship jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Locksmith Apprenticeship jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Locksmith Apprenticeship jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Locksmith Apprenticeship jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Locksmith Apprenticeship job openings:

Infographic showing various Locksmith Apprenticeship job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,488 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Locksmith
Agency
Texas A&M University - Kingsville
Department
17151001 University Police
Proposed Minimum Salary
Commensurate
Job Location
Kingsville, Texas
Job Type
Staff
Job Description
About Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK), the oldest institution of higher learning in South Texas and a proud member of the Texas A&M University System, stands as the region's premier university. TAMUK offers the widest range of academic programs and degrees in South Texas, provides exceptional learning and residential facilities, conducts impactful research, awards substantial scholarships, and has awarded more than 80,000 degrees in the institution's 100-year history. The university is recognized for its unwavering commitment to student success, meaningful research, and deep community engagement. With a welcoming campus culture and strong regional partnerships, TAMUK offers faculty and staff a unique opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of students and the broader South Texas region.
Location: The University is located in historic Kingsville, a friendly, safe city of 25,000 that is the home of the legendary King Ranch. Corpus Christi and its beaches are just 40 miles to the northeast, and the border with Mexico is 120 miles to the south at Brownsville or 119 miles to the west at Laredo.
For more information, click here.
Position Overview
The Locksmith apprentice, under direction, repairs and installs locks and door hardware, duplicates key, recodes locks, and performs general carpentry work related to locksmithing. Maintains files and computerized key control records.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Locksmith & Access Control Operations
  • Install new locks and cores in all new facilities and renovations.
  • Master pinning and re-pinning of all cylinders.
  • Cut, issue keys, and log issuance.
  • Repair, replace, and add locks as necessary to maintain campus security.
  • Determine style and brand of all locks installed.
  • Identify, issue, and log padlocks.
  • Change door locks in controlled or protected areas as requested.
  • Control Master Key systems regarding access.
  • Maintain and track key inventory.
  • Collect all keys from exiting employees and document in the University system; complete employee exit documentation.
  • Provide entry access to contractors working on campus and monitor return of issued contractor keys.

Door Systems, Hardware & Preventive Maintenance
  • Monitor and repair automatic doors.
  • Perform preventative maintenance on automatic doors.
  • Respond to work orders for locks, door hinges, and broken doors.
  • Maintain door hardware including closures, hinges, and related components.
  • Maintain ADA door controllers campus-wide.
  • Assist other maintenance shops with card reader installations and troubleshooting.
  • Maintain compliance with Fire, Safety, and ADA codes and standards.

Records Management, Customer Service & Administrative Support
  • Maintain meticulous recordkeeping for the University's key tracking system (Keystone Web).
  • Maintain accurate documentation of key issuance, returns, and inventory records.
  • Provide excellent customer service through written and verbal communication.
  • Participate in on-call duties for evenings, weekends, and special events.
  • Complete all tasks assigned by the supervisor.
  • Utilize Microsoft Office 365 applications to support daily operations and reporting.

Other Duties Assigned
  • The above represents the major duties, responsibilities, and authorities of this job, and is not intended to be a complete list of all tasks and functions. Other duties may be assigned.

Required Qualifications
  • Education - High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Experience - Six months of related experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Ability to multitask and work independently and cooperatively with others.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively to ensure understanding.
  • Knowledge of master key systems and changing keys to present hierarchy not required but preferred. Knowledge of methods, tools, and materials used in locksmith trade not required but preferred.
  • Ability to plan or make recommendations in security modifications
  • Ability to create, edit, and format professional documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and correspondence.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams).

Other Requirements
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift moderately heavy objects
  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Other Requirements and Factors
  • This position is security sensitive
  • This position will require export-control authorization prior to starting employment.
  • This position requires compliance with state and federal laws/codes and Texas A&M University System/TAMU policies, regulations, rules and procedures
  • All tasks and job responsibilities must be performed safely without injury to self or others in compliance with System and University safety requirements
  • Work beyond normal office hours and/or work on weekends not to exceed 40-hour work week.

Why Join the Javelina Nation?
Texas A&M University-Kingsville offers a supportive, mission-driven culture focused on excellence in teaching, research, and service. All employees enjoy:
  • A welcoming campus community
  • Opportunities for professional development
  • Competitive benefits through the Texas A&M University System
  • A rewarding experience of helping students achieve their academic and career goals

Shared Values: TAMUK employees uphold the Shared Values of Care, Integrity, Pride, Innovation, and Excellence, which form the foundation of the University's culture and guide its strategic plan. More information on TAMUK's Strategic Plan and Shared Values can be found here.
4DX: TAMUK employees actively engage in Franklin Covey's 4 Disciplines of Execution (4DX) activities within their departments. TAMUK utilizes 4DX as the framework for pursuing strategic goals by creating a culture of high performance. This requires participation from all faculty and staff. More information on 4DX can be found here.
Caring Campus: TAMUK employees embody the Institute for Evidence Based Change's Caring Campus mindset, maintaining a collegial and caring attitude towards students and each other to foster student engagement and a positive, collaborative work environment. More information on Caring Campus can be found here.
Compensation & Benefits
Compensation: Commensurate with experience
Texas A&M University-Kingsville offers a career filled with purpose and opportunity in addition to competitive wages. In addition to base pay, TAMUK provides eligible employees a comprehensive Total Rewards package designed to support employees' well-being, professional growth, and financial security.
BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply)
With our generous benefit package, robust professional development opportunities, strong retirement programs, and dedication to service excellence, TAMUK is a truly engaging and rewarding place to work.
Insurance:
  • Medical
    • $0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value).
    • Up to 83% of premium covered by the university:
      • Employee and Spouse
      • Employee and Children
      • Employee and Family coverage
  • Dental & Vision
  • Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account

On-Campus Wellness Opportunities:
  • TAMUK's Wellness Program is designed to enrich lives through health and wellness programming that is meaningful and impactful.

Work Life Solutions:
  • Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources

Tuition Benefits:
  • Employee Tuition Assistance Program
  • Book scholarships
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Retirement:
  • Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP), dependent on position
  • Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan

Employee Leave:
  • 8+ hours of vacation per month
  • 8 hours of sick leave per month
  • 8 hours of paid Birthday leave
  • 12-15 paid holidays per year

Additional Information
A federal proclamation issued on September 19, 2025, imposes a $100,000 fee on new H-1B petitions filed after September 21, 2025. Texas A&M University-Kingsville will not pay this fee. If immigration sponsorship may be required for employment, consult with private immigration counsel, at the individual's expense, is recommended to determine whether the individual's current immigration status would make a potential offer of employment from Texas A&M University-Kingsville subject to this fee.
In addition, on January 27, 2026, Texas Governor Abbott issued a moratorium on the filing of any new H-1B petitions unless approved by the Texas Workforce Commission. Accordingly, if sponsorship for employment visa status is required now or in the future, this moratorium may affect the university's ability to employ the selected final candidate. TAMUK will adhere to applicable regulations regarding visa opportunities.
Application Instructions
During the application process applicants have one opportunity to enter the requested information, upload documents and submit the application. Applicants will not be able to make changes or add additional documents once the application materials have been submitted via "Submit" action.
Employment applications must include:
  • Completed online application
  • Cover Letter/Letter of Interest addressing qualifications
  • Curriculum Vitae or Resume
  • Contact information for 3 professional references

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution's verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution's procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.
Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.