Trying to get a job

[Tempature]

i live in Nevada, and im going to try and get a locksmithing job somewhere. I think that i have to start out as an apprentice (and get my locksmith permit) before i can move on.

in the phone book there are about 20 different locksmiths, so do you guys think that i should just call them up, one by one, asking if they offer apprenticeship programs? Also, if they ask for an interview, what do you think i should say? i know alot about lockpicking, and i have taken apart and re-keyed locks, but ive got alot to learn, so i dont want to sound like i "know everything" and i dont want to sound like i "know nothing". tiz tough :/
also, if anyone has tips on writing a successful Resume.

and if anyone reading this happens to BE a locksmith, what is your opinion on apprenticeship programs, and what is the normal pay rate?

any help from anyone is welcome, and appreciated

[Jryanruch]

I work for a small company that's been in business for over 40 years. The best advice I can give you is to downplay your lock experience, and be teachable. Let them know that you've taken a part some locks out of curiousity and leave it at that. Then you'll appear to be a fast learner when you get shown how to do things the way they want you to, and you won't appear any slower for not knowing something. This isn't dishonest, it's humble and teachable, and an Employer can appreciate that (if he's worth working for).

If locksmithing is something you'd like to do long term, let them know you're interested in it as a career. If they get the feeling that you just want to learn to open up cars and pick locks you'll probably get an earful.

I'd call the ones that have been around the longest first. Generally they have crusty old farts that have been locksmithing since you needed a forge and anvil, and they know everything. They're the best to learn from.

Pay is a separate deal.. my apprentice pay was pretty low, but it increased as my proficiency increased. I could have taken a labourers job at a slightly higher rate to begin with, but I'd still be shovelling dirt now, and would probably be getting the same wage without increase.

If they want you, they'll sponsor you for your security clearance (at least where I'm from you get your apprenticeship licence with your company's 'supervision' and then when you're certified you get your own licence without having to be under a company's supervision.)

Just my 2 cents. Good luck.

[Tygart]

I wonder if your local community college would have a place were you could find apprentice program.

[Avenger]

maybe a bit stupid question, but where can you get any type of locksmith licences

[Jryanruch]

Here, the company you work for does the paperwork for you in getting a security employee licence. If you're on your own or you're a one man show you have to go down to the RCMP/FBI and get finger printed, have background check, and fill out some registration forms. Then they will get back to you regarding yearly payment and rules etc. Depending on your location there may be different protocols. Try the 'Search' for your specific area.

[blake1803]

Avenger: it will vary depending on your location/jurisdiction. Here in California it requires a a number of fees and set of electronic prints sent to the FBI and DOJ as well as a background check, a photo, etc.

[Eyes_Only]

I think you also need a business license in CA to keep a locksmith license or the office that issues them will start calling and ask why you applied for one without actually running a locksmith business.

[Father]

men i hope you do whel in your dream.the only hting i can tell you is not to tell them that you are a lockpicker