On behalf of consumers or business clients, a master locksmith installs, repairs, or replaces various types of locking mechanisms. The term “master locksmith” is used to distinguish highly trained professionals who are members of industry associations from inexperienced locksmiths. Industry associations in many areas administer practical and written exams that these professionals must pass before they can call themselves masters of their trade.
Some people in these jobs work for security or construction companies, while others work for themselves. Most locksmiths can install simple devices like door handles, dead bolts, and door chains, but only a master locksmith can install more complicated equipment like digital or electronic locks on cars, bank vaults, and safes. People who work in this field are regulated in some areas, and industry regulators or government entities regularly hold training sessions where these professionals are taught how to operate complex locking mechanisms. A master locksmith has typically obtained all of the licenses required to handle the majority of commonly used locking systems.
Although a master locksmith can work with a wide range of tools, many people in this field specialize in one type of locking system to keep costs down. They buy only the tools they need to work on those specific devices. As a result, some people specialize in installing security systems for businesses, while others focus on residential clients. Before starting work, the master locksmith will usually give the client an estimate, and the client will either accept it or try to negotiate a lower price. The final cost may differ from the quote in some cases, though some countries have laws that limit how much a worker can charge in excess of the estimate.
Many locksmiths work on the road, which means they spend the majority of their time assisting clients in their homes or driving to meet people who have locked themselves out of their cars. Others who work in this field spend the majority of their time in an office or a workshop. These people make money by selling locking devices and cutting keys for cars, houses, and other types of property.
Some seasoned locksmiths hire trainees or apprentices, who are given on-the-job training for a set period of time. After that, the apprentice can work for the master locksmith or start his or her own business. In such cases, the experienced professional will usually assign the trainee to the jobs that are the least difficult. Rather than actively working on locking mechanisms and devices, a master locksmith may spend the majority of his or her time supervising junior employees.