So trainees will face keen competition for openings, while experienced Locksmiths will be in demand. They may sometimes receive a commission percentage of the bill for their labor, ranging from 5 percent to 50 percent depending upon whether the work is done during their regular work hours or afterwards. Trainees often start at minimum wage, but can start much higher. Locksmiths may receive holiday leave, paid vacations, and sick pay, as well as health insurance. Self-employed Locksmiths work 44 to 60 hours per week.
Locksmiths frequently work on-call evenings and weekends to respond to emergency service calls.
When hiring Locksmiths, employers prefer applicants with two to five years' experience in the trade. Attributes of a good Locksmith include mechanical ability, manual dexterity, good corrected vision, hand-eye coordination, bondability, neat appearance, and a pleasant public contact manner. A good driving record as well as one's own service vehicle and tools may also be required. An electrical background and licensing by the Department of Consumer Affairs is required to work on alarm systems. Some California cities require that Locksmiths obtain a police permit.