Skills
Locksmith Skills & Tools
The technical skills, people skills and tools employers look for in locksmiths, and how to build and show them.
What skills do locksmiths need?
Locksmiths need technical skills such as lock installation, rekeying, and key cutting, plus people skills like integrity and problem-solving. They also use tools such as Key machines and Pick sets.
Technical (hard) skills
- Lock installation
- Rekeying
- Key cutting
- Lockout opening
- Automotive keys
- Access control
People (soft) skills
- Integrity
- Problem-solving
- Customer service
- Patience
Tools, equipment and technology
- Key machines
- Pick sets
- Pinning kits
- Key programmers
- Drills
- Access control software
Skills in action: common tasks
These step-by-step guides show how locksmiths put their skills to work:
- How to rekey a pin tumbler lock
- How to verify ownership before a lockout
- How to design a simple master key system
How to show these skills on a resume
- Lead your skills section with the technical skills from the job posting, for example, “Lock installation” and “Rekeying.”
- Prove soft skills with results: instead of listing “integrity,” describe a situation where you used it.
- List credentials such as ALOA certifications near the top, with the issuing organization and date.
- Use the employer’s vocabulary. Our locksmith glossary covers the terms hiring managers expect.
How to build these skills
Formal training, supervised practice and certification are the most direct routes. Our Locksmith training introduces each of these skills with plain-language lessons, procedures and a final knowledge check: a strong foundation before hands-on training or your first day.