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Locksmith

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Jan 18, 2025

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

Job Summary

Under the general direction of the Key and Lock Shop Supervisor, works on moderately complex functions and semi-routine assignments where judgement is required. Performs a variety of tasks within the Lock Shop including master level locksmith trade functions necessary for the planning, construction, installation, inspection, preventative maintenance, repair of door systems and commercial grade door security hardware systems. Including but not limited to: all types of door hinge and pivoting mechanisms; many types of door security controls such as mortise, rim and concealed vertical rod panic devices, mortise locks, cylindrical locksets, electronic locking controls that utilize code or card entry applications, closing mechanisms such as surface closers, overhead concealed devices, concealed in the floor closing devices, automatic door openers/closers; miscellaneous security hardware such as electro-magnetic door hold open devices, maglock, hanger doors, sliding doors, gates, garage doors, safes, restroom and office furniture.

Essential Job Duties

  • Responsible for following all safety procedures and maintaining a safe and secure work environment.
  • Design multi-level master key systems.
  • Redesign lock cylinders to use as many as 5 different keys.
  • Change lock combinations by using code systems and code machine.
  • Operate a key-cutting machine, power drill, power saw, grinders, welding equipment, and other power tools.
  • Devise systems to prevent break-ins and theft.
  • Diagnose repair needs by sound and feel of the movement of internal parts.
  • Open or remove locks that cannot be opened by ordinary means.
  • Troubleshoot and repair electronic and mechanical lock malfunctions.
  • Fabricate lock parts.
  • Perform carpentry as related to installation and retrofitting of door hardware.
  • Repair and change combinations with safes and safe-locking systems.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Keys and Records Maintenance

  • Cut and stamp keys.
  • Prepare keying schedules indicating all keying combinations.
  • Update and maintain key records and key filing system for future duplication of keys using written and computer database programs.

Shop Maintenance

  • Maintain, clean, and repair tools and equipment used in the Lock Shop
  • Order and maintain parts and stock inventories sufficient for operation.
  • Inspect materials received to ensure they meet specifications and that they are in good working order.
  • Perform safety inspections on tools and equipment used; attend safety and training classes and perform job-related tasks in a safe manner.
  • Follow all product and university-specific safety procedures when using tools and equipment.
  • Helps the Lock Shop Supervisor maintain inventory of shop materials, supplies, and tools by informing them of specific needs.

Physical Requirements

  • Diagnose lock malfunction by sound.
  • Lift and carry objects weighing up to 60 lbs.
  • Visual inspection of lock work
  • Will work in confined spaces and climb ladders, stairways, and ladderways while carrying equipment and/or material.

Basic Qualifications

  • 2 years of journeyman-level full-time, paid work experience installing, rekeying, repairing, and performing maintenance on locks, door closers, and related hardware, or completion of a locksmith apprenticeship program
  • Experience and ability to read and understand construction documents, building specifications, and blueprints.
  • Demonstrated ability to install and maintain all types of doors and hardware.
  • Skill and ability in the use of computers and computer programs such as email, Excel, and Word
  • Ability to learn AIM Asset Management System, work order tracking program, and simpleK key control software.
  • Training in the planning, construction, installation, inspection, maintenance, and support of complex, multi-level master key systems for large multi-user building(s) typical to the size of a large university or institutional/ industrial establishment
  • Troubleshoot and repair electronic and mechanical lock malfunctions.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team, fostering teamwork by maintaining a cooperative atmosphere and effective working relationships with a diverse population from various backgrounds.
  • Ability to implement a customer service approach, with a commitment to high-quality work and ethical standards.
  • Auditory acuity to diagnose lock malfunction by sound.
  • Strength to lift and carry objects weighing up to 60 lbs.
  • Visual acuity as required to inspect lock work.
  • Ability to work in confined spaces; to climb ladders, stairways, and ladderways while carrying equipment and/or material.
  • Work scheduled overtime and available for emergency overtime when the need arises by responding to overtime call-outs before and after standard scheduled hours of work, as requested by the supervisor.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in the installation and repair of various types of locks and hardware.
  • Experienced in using a wide variety of tools and standard practices and processes of the locksmith and carpentry trade.
  • Experience working within federal, state, and local building codes and safety regulations pertaining to exits and locks in case of fire and for the protection of disabled persons.
  • Troubleshoots low voltage electronic access control systems and associated software and hardware.
  • Experience with ADA operators.
  • Experience with Medeco systems.

Required Documents

  • Resume.
Hiring Range

$31.75 - $37.75 Per Hour

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.

As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.


EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.

Disability Accommodations

If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.


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