Locksmith - Corrections Shop

Pima County; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Pima County is looking for a Locksmith for the Main Jail to install, maintain, and repair locking systems, with a focus on both mechanical and electronic access control. The role involves emergency responses, accurate record-keeping, and collaboration with security teams.

Minimum qualifications include an apprenticeship and relevant experience as a locksmith. Preferred candidates will have extensive experience with commercial-grade hardware and high-security lock systems.

Qualifications

• Completion of an industry-recognized apprenticeship program in locksmithing and one year of experience.
• Five years of journey-level experience performing locksmith duties.
• Valid Arizona driver license at the time of appointment.

Responsibilities

• Designs and maintains master key systems for access control.
• Responds to emergency lockouts and security incidents.
• Installs electronic access control systems.

Skills

Lock installation and repair

Electronic access control systems

Key duplication

Education

Completion of an industry-recognized apprenticeship program

Relevant education for substitution

Tools

Blueprint reading

Locksmithing tools

Job description

Job Overview

Locksmith – Pima County Main Jail (1270 W. Silverlake Rd.)Classified position – Class 5784 – Salary Grade 8. Hours are paid hourly and responsibilities include installing, maintaining, repairing, diagnosing, and troubleshooting locking systems, hardware, and electronic access control mechanisms in a correctional facility.

Responsibilities

• Designs, implements, and maintains master key systems for secure and efficient access control.
• Installs, maintains, and repairs locks on doors, cabinets, safes, gates, and other public service infrastructure.
• Responds to emergency lockouts and security incidents, providing immediate secure resolutions.
• Installs and services electronic access control systems, including card readers, electric strikes, and keypad locks.
• Rekeys locks and changes lock combinations to meet security concerns or personnel changes.
• Troubleshoots and diagnoses mechanical and electronic locking issues, ensuring timely repairs.
• Maintains accurate records of key issuance, lock systems, and access control logs for accountability.
• Collaborates with security, maintenance, and administrative personnel to enhance facility safety and access strategies.
• Fabricates and duplicates keys using manual and automated equipment.
• Performs preventive maintenance on locks and access systems to extend equipment life and reduce downtime.
• Interprets blueprints, floor plans, and technical drawings to guide lock installations and upgrades.
• Ensures compliance with safety codes, ADA requirements, and applicable regulations.

Minimum Qualifications

• Completion of an industry‑recognized apprenticeship program in locksmithing AND one year of journey‑level experience as a locksmith. (Relevant education may substitute for up to six months.)
• OR five years of journey‑level experience performing locksmith duties.
• OR two years with Pima County as a Trades Maintenance Technician performing locksmith‑related work. (Relevant education may substitute for up to two and a half years.)
• Valid Arizona driver license at the time of appointment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Extensive experience with installation, maintenance, and repair of locks, doors, and production of keys for commercial‑grade hardware.
• Experience maintaining master key code systems and documenting issued keys.
• Experience with high‑security institutional lock systems (Southern Folger, RR rink, Midwest Detention, Airteq, Corbin Russwin).
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, hardware schedules, and technical drawings.
• Experience performing basic repairs on wood and hollow metal doors, frames, and hardware.
• Willingness to perform other building maintenance duties as required.

EEO Statement

Pima County Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Pima County is committed to an inclusive and diverse workforce and will not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, kinship, political interest, or any other characteristic protected by law.