They may, however, drive from job to job and be exposed to the weather. The work may involve standing or sitting for hours. Key grinding machines are noisy. Most work 40 to 50 hours a week. Self-employed locksmiths may work more hours, or they may work only part time.
Wages vary according to training, experience and location.
Entry level wages may be lower. Almost half of all locksmiths are self-employed. These workers need to provide their own health insurance and retirement plans. Because most locksmith shops are small, even locksmiths who are not self-employed may have to provide their own insurance. There were 190 people employed as locksmiths and safe repairers in Indiana in 1998.