A locksmith apprentice performs all of the tasks that a locksmith performs, but under the supervision of a locksmith. The locksmith apprentice performs tasks such as making keys, opening stuck locks, and even drilling safes to open them. In addition to unlocking locked vehicles and picking locks without keys, the locksmith apprentice frequently visits homes and businesses to install door locks, alarm systems, safes, and security lock boxes. The apprentice may be asked to repair and refinish antique safes and door lock mechanisms, as well as provide records and information about the company’s locks and security systems on occasion.
To become a licensed locksmith in most areas, you must first work as a locksmith apprentice for a period of time. The locksmith apprentice is frequently tasked with some of the more unusual tasks in the locksmith’s office, such as cutting duplicate keys for customers and restocking supply shelves. The apprentice is usually given responsibilities such as cleaning the shop and driving the mobile service vehicle. The locksmith closely supervises more detailed and skilled assignments, such as opening a safe with a drill or stethoscope placed next to the combination dial.
When a call comes in about a locked vehicle that needs to be opened, the locksmith apprentice is usually the one who goes to the scene and unlocks the vehicle. Occasionally, the apprentice will use a standard opening device, such as a Slim Jim®, and other times, the doors will require a more experienced method of unlocking the lock, such as picking the tumblers. The apprentice is frequently tasked with installing security locks and even deadbolts in a home or business. Alarm systems are frequently installed with the locksmith apprentice assisting the locksmith and even drawing detailed diagrams of the system for future reference both the locksmith and the building owners.
An antique safe or lock box may be brought to the locksmith’s office with the request that it be refinished and restored. When the safe’s combination or key isn’t available, the locksmith apprentice must drill the lock, pick the lock, or even use a torch to cut the hinge pins. The locksmith apprentice will refinish the safe and install or rebuild the lock once it has been opened.