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Trainee Locksmith Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Work You Will Do The Locksmith - Module C performs standard and advanced locksmith procedures ... Four years' experience as a trade-related trainee may substitute for completion of a four year ...

Locksmith

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$37.72/hr

The Work You Will Do The Locksmith - Module C performs standard and advanced locksmith procedures ... Four years' experience as a trade-related trainee may substitute for completion of a four year ...

The Work You Will Do The Locksmith - Module C performs standard and advanced locksmith procedures ... Four years' experience as a trade-related trainee may substitute for completion of a four year ...

LOCKSMITH. Requirements REQUIREMENTS TO QUALIFY OPTION I: Four years experience in the installation ... trainee, and is fully qualified and able to perform a specific trade without supervision. **To ...

LOCKSMITH

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90K/yr

... trainee , and is fully qualified and able to perform a specific trade without supervision. **To ... Knowledge of General Locksmith Work. MULTIPLE-CHOICE TEST ARE NOT REVIEWABLE BY APPLICANTS PER ...

... locksmith tools allowance and supplies Independence to manage your day; no micromanagement Approachable managers who are here to help and support you Variety of work on many kinds of cars, both new ...

New

Trainee Locksmith information

See California salary details

$12

$25

$35

How much do trainee locksmith jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee 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 is a trainee locksmith?

Trainee locksmiths are individuals who are learning the skills required to become professional locksmiths, often through a combination of formal training, apprenticeships, and on-the-job experience. They assist experienced locksmiths with tasks such as installing, repairing, and opening locks, as well as key cutting and security system installation. During their training, they gain knowledge about different types of locks, security technologies, and customer service. Successful completion of a trainee period can lead to full qualification and independent work as a locksmith.

What types of hands-on training and mentorship can a trainee locksmith expect during their first year on the job?

As a trainee locksmith, you can expect to receive extensive hands-on training, often shadowing experienced locksmiths on service calls and in workshop settings. Typical tasks include learning to rekey locks, duplicate keys, install basic hardware, and troubleshoot common lock issues under supervision. Many companies offer structured mentorship, pairing trainees with senior staff to gradually build confidence and skill in real-world scenarios. This approach ensures trainees gain practical experience while developing problem-solving and customer service skills essential for advancement.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Locksmith, you need basic mechanical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with locksmith tools, key cutting machines, and security system hardware is essential, and some roles require completion of an apprenticeship or relevant certification. Attention to detail, integrity, and strong customer service abilities help build trust and ensure client satisfaction. These skills are critical for delivering reliable, secure, and efficient locksmith services in a variety of situations.

What is the difference between Trainee Locksmith vs Locksmith?

AspectTrainee LocksmithLocksmith
CredentialsOn-the-job training, minimal certificationsCertified locksmith license, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentSupervised training sites, entry-level tasksIndependent work, client sites, workshops
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, apprenticeshipsEstablished locksmith businesses, security companies
Search & Comparison IntentLearning phase, entry-level rolesProfessional locksmith services, experienced work

The main difference between a Trainee Locksmith and a Locksmith is experience and certification. Trainee Locksmiths are in training, often working under supervision and with minimal certifications, while Locksmiths are fully qualified professionals with certifications and independent work capabilities. Trainee Locksmiths focus on learning skills, whereas Locksmiths provide expert services to clients.

How hard is it to train as a trainee locksmith?

Training as a trainee locksmith typically involves completing a technical apprenticeship or course that covers lock mechanisms, key cutting, and security systems, which can take several months to a year. Developing skills with hand tools and understanding security standards are essential, and some regions require certification or licensing to work independently.

How much do entry-level trainee locksmiths make?

Entry-level trainee locksmiths typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on location and employer. As they gain experience and certifications, their wages can increase, and they may also earn additional income through on-call work or emergency services.

How to become a trainee locksmith with no experience?

To become a trainee locksmith with no experience, you should seek entry-level positions or apprenticeships that provide on-the-job training. Developing skills in lock mechanisms, key cutting, and security systems, along with obtaining relevant certifications, can improve your prospects in this field.

Is a trainee locksmith apprenticeship difficult?

A trainee locksmith apprenticeship can be challenging as it requires learning technical skills such as lock installation, key cutting, and security system troubleshooting. It often involves hands-on work, problem-solving, and gaining certifications, which can take time and dedication to master. However, with proper training and practice, many find it a rewarding career path.

What are the most commonly searched types of Locksmith jobs in California?

The most popular types of Locksmith jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Trainee Locksmith jobs?

Cities in California with the most Trainee Locksmith job openings:

Infographic showing various Trainee Locksmith job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,482 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

$37.72/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


University Of Southern California rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

100th of 620 rated colleges and universities


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 this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$151377.htmld

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About University of Southern California

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880