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Senior Institutional Locksmith Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Institutional Locksmith information

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$12

$26

$35

How much do senior institutional locksmith jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior institutional locksmith in the United States is $26.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Senior Institutional Locksmiths?

Senior Institutional Locksmiths are skilled professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing locks and security systems in large facilities such as universities, hospitals, or government buildings. They oversee the security of doors, safes, and other entry points, often managing key control systems and responding to emergencies. In addition to hands-on work, they may supervise junior staff and ensure compliance with institutional security policies. Their expertise helps maintain the safety and security of people and property within the institution.

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

To excel as a Senior Institutional Locksmith, you need advanced skills in lock installation, repair, and maintenance, as well as a comprehensive understanding of security systems, often backed by vocational training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with key management software, electronic access control systems, and specialized locksmith tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for addressing complex security challenges and collaborating with facility teams. These skills ensure the safety and security of institutional environments while maintaining operational efficiency and compliance with security protocols.

What is the difference between Senior Institutional Locksmith vs Institutional Locksmith?

AspectSenior Institutional LocksmithInstitutional Locksmith
CertificationsLocksmith license, specialized security certificationsLocksmith license, basic security certifications
Work EnvironmentHospitals, schools, government buildingsPublic and private institutions, commercial facilities
ResponsibilitiesAdvanced lock installation, security system upgrades, troubleshooting complex issuesLock repairs, key duplication, basic lock installation

The main difference between a Senior Institutional Locksmith and an Institutional Locksmith lies in experience, complexity of tasks, and level of responsibility. Senior Institutional Locksmiths handle more advanced security systems and complex lock issues within institutional settings, while Institutional Locksmiths focus on standard lock and key services. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in scope and expertise.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Institutional Locksmiths working in large facilities?

Senior Institutional Locksmiths in large facilities often manage complex master key systems and coordinate security upgrades, which can present challenges in balancing accessibility with safety. They frequently collaborate with security teams, maintenance staff, and administrators to ensure compliance with institutional policies while minimizing disruptions. Additionally, responding to emergency lockouts and maintaining detailed records of key distribution require strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Staying updated with advances in electronic locking systems and integrating them with traditional hardware is also a key part of the role.
What cities are hiring for Senior Institutional Locksmith jobs? Cities with the most Senior Institutional Locksmith job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Institutional Locksmith jobs? The most popular types of Institutional Locksmith jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Institutional Locksmith jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Institutional Locksmith jobs include:

Security Professional I / Locksmith & Integrator Apprentice

ABLE LOCKSMITHS LLC

Frederick, MD โ€ข On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Build a Career in Physical Security

Able Locksmiths, LLC is seeking motivated individuals interested in building a long-term career in the physical security industry. Join our team as a Security Professional I (Locksmith & Access Control Apprentice) and receive hands-on training in locksmithing, electronic access control, door hardware, safes, and other security technologies that help protect homes, businesses, schools, hospitals, and government facilities.
We are a Veteran-owned security company based in Frederick, Maryland. Since 1979, we have helped protect homes, businesses, schools, hospitals, government facilities, and critical infrastructure throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Washington D.C., and beyond.
Unlike many locksmith companies, we do far more than cut keys and unlock doors. Our team works with:
  • Mechanical and electronic locks
  • Access control systems
  • Door hardware and life-safety devices
  • High-security key systems
  • Automotive locksmithing
  • Safe servicing and opening
  • Security audits and consulting
  • Commercial and institutional security systems
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working with their hands, solving problems, learning technical skills, and helping people. The work is dynamic and variedโ€”one day you may be helping a family secure their home, the next working on commercial door hardware, access control systems, automotive locksmithing, or safe servicing. No two days are exactly alike, making this an excellent career for individuals who enjoy variety, problem-solving, and continuous learning.
No locksmith experience is required. We will train the right candidate.
What You'll Do

As a Security Professional I, you will work alongside experienced technicians while learning:
  • Lock installation and repair
  • Rekeying residential and commercial locks
  • Key duplication and key system management
  • Automotive locksmith services
  • Door hardware installation and adjustment
  • Safe servicing and safe lock work
  • Access control fundamentals
  • Professional customer service
  • Security best practices
As your skills grow, so will your responsibilities, compensation, and advancement opportunities.
What We're Looking For

We are looking for individuals who are:
  • Honest and trustworthy
  • Mechanically inclined
  • Reliable and punctual
  • Detail-oriented
  • Professional in appearance and communication
  • Comfortable working independently
  • Able to work as part of a team
  • Willing to continuously learn and improve
Requirements
  • Valid driver's license
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to pass a criminal background check required for state licensing
  • Ability to pass drug screening requirements
  • Ability to safely lift and carry equipment and materials
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Professional customer service skills
Preferred Qualifications

  • Construction or trades experience
  • Automotive repair experience
  • Access control experience
  • Military experience
  • Customer service experience
Schedule
  • Monday through Friday
  • Primarily daytime hours
  • Rotating on-call schedule after training is completed
  • One evening per week and one weekend per month on-call rotation
Benefits
  • Paid training
  • Company-provided tools and equipment
  • Professional certification opportunities
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • Employee discounts
  • Paid vacation
  • Paid sick leave
  • Paid holidays
  • Merit-based compensation increases
Career Path

Able Locksmiths invests heavily in training and development. Successful team members may advance through the following levels:
  • Security Professional I (Apprentice)
  • Security Professional II
  • Senior Security Professional
  • Lead Security Professional
About Able Locksmiths

Able Locksmiths, LLC has served the region since 1979 and is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB). We are committed to professionalism, technical excellence, ethical business practices, and protecting the communities we serve.
If you're looking for more than just a job and want a long-term career in the security industry, we'd like to hear from you.
Work Location: Frederick, MD and customer locations throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Washington D.C.
Job Type: Full-time

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Required)
Ability to Relocate:

  • Frederick, MD: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person