If you have a love of the outdoors, you may want to consider getting a job as a locksmith in Pittsburgh PA. You will find that the pay is good, and you can work in a variety of different locations. But you need to be skilled in order to do the job well.
Pay scale
Locksmiths are professionals who are trained to open locked cars, install new locks, and provide other lock and key services. The average pay scale for a locksmith can range from $29,000 to $64,500. This includes taxable wages and tips. However, the average salary for a locksmith is relatively low, considering the responsibilities a typical locksmith must perform.
To become a qualified locksmith, you’ll need to complete a certification course, obtain a license, and pass a state-approved examination. In addition, you will need to have some basic tools and knowledge of locks. If you plan to be self-employed, you’ll need to obtain a business license.
There are many locksmith companies in the Pittsburgh, PA area. Some of them offer an impressive array of services, while others focus on providing a few key services. For example, Pop-A-Lock of Pittsburgh provides a wide range of locksmith services in the Pittsburgh metro region. They have training programs that meet the requirements of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALA).
A good starting point for your research is the ALA’s website. It offers a wealth of information, including industry news and statistics, as well as links to its affiliated trade organizations.
Skills needed
Regardless of whether you are planning on starting a locksmith business from scratch or joining an existing one, there are a few skills that you should learn. Aside from your basic mechanical skills, you will also need to acquire the right tools, insurance, and license. You’ll find that these skills will help you grow your business and become a well-rounded professional.
Before you decide to become a locksmith, you should first make sure that you are eligible to work in Pennsylvania. For example, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old and have good organizational and computer skills. If you can handle these skills, you’ll be able to start your own locksmith business or get hired with an established company.
Alternatively, you can join an apprenticeship program with an experienced locksmith. In this case, you’ll receive a stipend and be trained in the technical aspects of the trade. However, you’ll have to be prepared to put in a lot of hard work.
Common jobs
If you are looking for a job as a locksmith, Pittsburgh PA is a good place to look. There are a variety of different skills needed to be a successful locksmith.
For example, you can earn more money if you have an advanced degree in a related field. You can also earn more by working for a company that pays well. It’s best to ask for credentials before hiring a locksmith.
Commercial locksmiths provide services for businesses. They can work on everything from emergency exit doors to master key systems.
People usually call a local locksmith when they lose their keys, need to rekey their locks, or want to upgrade the security of their home. This type of service can be very expensive. Locksmiths charge according to the time and urgency of the job. Also, you can expect to pay more during the evenings and on weekends.
Some of the most common jobs for locksmiths in Pittsburgh PA include:
If you’re interested in learning how to make key or work with electronic locks, consider taking Penn Foster’s online Locksmith and Home Security Technician Training program. The training includes online practical exercises and interactive graded assignments.
Work environment
Locksmiths are a contractor who helps protect your home and family from burglary and other criminal activities. These professionals provide services like installing security systems, creating replacement keys, and fixing locks. They also offer emergency lockout assistance.
The average salary for locksmiths in Pittsburgh, PA is $37K, with an annual maximum of $61K. In addition to the salary, they also have several benefits. For instance, they have an on-call schedule that allows them to respond to emergency calls within 30 minutes.
You can work in both commercial and residential areas. If you have experience in both areas, you can take on jobs that other locksmiths do not. Also, you can earn more if you have experience in managing junior locksmiths.
Some of the skills that locksmiths in Pittsburgh, PA use include repairing and installing high-security hardware and locking devices, reprogramming security devices, and installing keyless entry systems. If you would like to join this industry, you can attend a local college to learn the basics. A higher education can increase your earning potential.