Locksmith Apprentice

Compensation Grade:

AT18

Salary Range:

$19.63-$31.07

Opening Date:

September 4, 2026

Closing Date:

September 19, 2026

Please Note: All job announcements close at 11:59 p.m. of the day before the posted closing date.

As a Locksmith Apprentice in the Airport Authority’s Apprentice Employment Program, you will have the opportunity to gain the experience and training that can lead to becoming a locksmith.
Locksmith Apprentice
This is a non-career, term job.
Serves in the Airport Maintenance Department at either Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) or Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).
Participates in a state-approved Airports Authority Trades Apprentice Employment Program to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to become a journey level Locksmith. Performs progressively complex and responsible Locksmith work, as knowledge, skills, and abilities in the trade increase. Training received is both on-the-job and in a classroom. Performs related functions.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Learns to respond to emergency lock, key, or door hardware problems and inspects, repairs, installs, and maintains lock hardware, keying systems, and related mechanisms. 

Follows up on lost keys to determine need for replacing core to maintain security.

Learns to prioritize work orders in keeping with established priorities and determines supplies and inventory of stock required for repairs and projects. Maintains keys, tools, supplies, and equipment in an orderly fashion.

Learns to prepare invoices for locksmith services.

Assist full performance Locksmith to conduct inspections of doors; troubleshoot door-closing problems; modify, retrofit, and repair commercial doors.

Learn to use locking system software to set up and maintain master lock systems with grandmasters, sub-masters, and operational keys in accordance with regulations and requirements.

Guided by a full performance Locksmith, learns to disassemble, and repair all brands of lock hardware and change locking functions.

Guided by a full performance Locksmith, learns to fabricate parts; repair locks, construct and replace interchangeable cores, cut, or punch out new or duplicate keys, and imprint with serial numbers.

Learns to evaluate, redesign, and fabricate door structure enhancements to include reinforcement panels, gussets, structural support brackets etc.

Guided by full performance Locksmith, learns to use a large variety of Shop tools to include pneumatic sanders, drills, band saws, welders, and metal fabrication benders to provide finished products.

Ensures that secure hardware is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Learns to install, modify, troubleshoot, and maintain low voltage locking systems including electric exit devices, electric strikes, electric mortise locksets, time-delay interface units, electric deadbolts, control switches, step-down power control panels, and power transfer devices.

Learns to work with Airport Contractors on new lock related installations and updates.

Learns to provide thoughtful, appropriate support and effective judgment on physical security hardware installations and modifications.

Learns to support and maintain Airport Electronic Security Key Systems (Smart Key Access).

Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of hire.

Must be eligible to work in the United States.

Ability to learn bodies of knowledge and gain skills in the Locksmith trade consistent with the schedule for progression as an Apprentice in the Trades Apprentice Employment Program.

Ability to drive a pick-up truck and learn to use similar vehicle.

Ability to work safely and knowledge of the safety rules, regulations, and procedures to do so.

Ability to speak and write effectively.

Skill in using a computer and computerized work order and time and attendance systems.

Ability to successfully complete an Airports Authority background investigation.

EDUCATION

A high school diploma or a Certificate of General Educational Development (GED).

Completion of at least one trades course (such as Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, Automotive Mechanics) in high school OR be currently enrolled in a degree or certificate program at a trades school accredited by an agency recognized by the US Department of Labor.  

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIRED

A state driver’s license in good standing.

Depending on assignment, may be required to obtain a Class B Commercial Driver’s License.  

NECESSARY SPECIAL FACTORS

Operates vehicle airside and landside (requires AOA permit).

Work is typically reviewed in progress and upon completion for quantity, quality, timeliness, teamwork, customer service, and other factors.

Is subject to hold-over and recall on a 24-hour basis for essential services and emergencies such as snow removal.

Work requires moderate to heavy physical exertion (lifting objects up to 45 pounds). May stand for long periods of time.

May be subject to potential hazards common to the airport environment. Wears personal protective gear, as necessary.

A background security investigation will be required for all new hires.

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.| Follow us on Twitter @MWAAcareers.