LOCKSMITH TRAINEE - 40002801

Durham County; Durham, Northern (NC, KY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

Durham County Government seeks a Locksmith Apprentice to maintain accuracy and working conditions of all key systems across county buildings. The trainee works under supervision, progressing through apprenticeship requirements while learning lock hardware, key control, and safety standards.

The role requires practical locksmith training, valid NC license, and the ability to handle physically demanding tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• High School graduation or GED equivalent.
• Two (2) years of locksmith or related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• North Carolina Locksmith License and valid state driver’s license required.

Responsibilities

• Responds to requests for service for installation, maintenance and repair of all types of door hardware and locking devices in Durham County government buildings.
• Installs and maintains commercial door hardware including exit devices, door closers, magnetic locks, electric strikes, automatic door operators and related devices.
• Re-keys locks and cuts new or duplicate keys as needed.
• Maintains key control accountability of all keys issued and/or produced.
• Provides cost estimates for repairs, installations and maintenance.
• Supports carpenters and other trades as needed.
• Maintains records of work performed and prepares reports.
• Performs general building maintenance as needed.

Skills

Lock hardware repair

Tools operation

Computer skills

Life safety codes

Mechanical diagnosis

Instructions comprehension

Supervisory ability

Lock installation

Cost estimation

Customer relations

Education

High school diploma or GED

2 years locksmith experience

Tools

NC Locksmith License

Driver's license

Lock shop tools

Job description

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Join Durham County Government

Durham County Government is home to over 2,000 dedicated professionals working together to deliver essential services that strengthen and support our vibrant, diverse community. As the heart of a fast-growing region, we offer meaningful careers across a wide range of fields—giving you the opportunity to make a real impact where you live, work, grow, and play. Learn more at www.dconc.gov .

DEPARTMENT

GENERAL SERVICES

DATE POSTED

SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

CLOSING DATE

OPEN UNTIL FILLED

SALARY

$49,140.00

POSITION NUMBER

40002801

JOB TYPE

Apprentice Provision: Individuals hired into the position as a Locksmith Apprentice are not required to possess a North Carolina Locksmith License at the time of hire. The apprentice must register as an apprentice under Durham County’s licensed locksmith within two (2) weeks of the date of hire and must maintain the required apprentice registration while completing the applicable requirements to obtain full licensure.

The trainee must successfully complete all applicable apprenticeship requirements within the specified timeframe established for their current level of the apprenticeship program. Continued progression and employment in the position are contingent upon meeting the required training, coursework, competency, and/or service-hour requirements within the established timeframes.

***THIS POSITING IS SUBJECT TO CLOSE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTIFICATION***

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

The purpose of this position is to maintain accuracy and working conditions of all key systems and lock hardware in Durham County's buildings.

This class works under general supervision, independently developing work methods and sequences.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Responds to requests for service for installation, maintenance and repair of all types of door hardware and locking devices in Durham County government buildings;
• Installs and maintains commercial door hardware including exit devices, door closers, magnetic locks, electric strikes, automatic door operators and other related devices;
• Disassembles mechanical and electrical locking devices and repairs or replaces parts as needed;
• Re-keys locks and cuts new or duplicate keys as needed;
• Maintains key control accountability of all keys issued and/or produced;
• Manages lock shop; orders and maintains locking supplies;
• Provides cost estimates for repairs, installations and maintenance;
• Supports carpenters and other trades as needed;
• Maintains records of work performed and prepares reports as needed;
• Performs general building maintenance work as needed;
• Performs other related tasks as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• General knowledge of the methods, materials, equipment, tools and techniques of mechanical equipment repair;
• Thorough knowledge of the hazards and safety precautions associated with equipment maintenance work;
• Skills in the operation of the tools and equipment used in the trade;
• Skills in computer applications, workorder systes, ans keying system;
• Knowledge of applicable Life Safety and egress codes;
• Ability to diagnose mechanical trouble in small machines end mechanical equipment;
• Ability to understand and carry out detailed oral and written instructions;
• Ability to plan and supervise other employees;
• Ability to repair and install Mogul and Paracentric locks for detention facility;
• Ability to prepare estimates and order materials for locking systems and repair jobs;
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment under pressure to meet deadlines;
• Ability to maintain working relationships with a diverse population.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• High School Graduation or GED equivalent
• Two (2) years of locksmith or related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES

• North Carolina Locksmith License.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license with an acceptable driving history.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement.

• Performs medium work that involves walking, standing, stooping, jumping, climbing, stretching, or lifting all of the time and also involves exerting between 20 and 50 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis or exceptional skill, adeptness and speed in the use of the fingers, hands or limbs in tasks involving very close tolerances or limits of accuracy.

UNAVOIDABLE HAZARDS (WORK ENVIRONMENT)

Unavoidable hazards refer to the job conditions that may lead to injury or health hazards even though precautions have been taken.

• Bright/dim light; Dusts and pollen.
• Extreme heat and/or cold; Wet or humid conditions.
• Vibration; Fumes and/or noxious odors.
• Traffic; Moving machinery.
• Electrical shock;

STANDARD CLAUSES

May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of Durham County.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS

It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses.

Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed and employees are properly trained.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE

Durham County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

ADA requires Durham County to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

Durham County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

BACKGROUND CHECK STATEMENT

This position may be subject to a background check, which could include, but is not limited to, criminal history (employment-related and/or SBI fingerprint-based), credit history, motor vehicle records, educational verification, and checks of the sexual offender registry, depending on the specific requirements of the role. A conviction record does not automatically disqualify an applicant from employment consideration, unless otherwise required by applicable state law.