Locksmith

Locksmith

Montana State University manages building locks and access at an institutional level including hierarchical mechanical key systems, mechanical access control systems (touchpads); electronic access control systems, and electronic key distributing systems. Facilities Services Locksmiths perform locksmithing and access control work including maintenance, replacement, management, and support of these systems.

Locksmiths for the department of Facilities Services provide a range of services including management of security keying hierarchy system; managing and maintaining an electronic access system; managing and maintaining an electronic key distribution system, cutting new and duplicate keys; installing door hardware; changing combinations; repairing safes; and modifying, repairing, designing and constructing original lock parts. The person in this position must possess excellent communication and customer service skills as well as problem solving abilities.

Manage and maintain a key control system to eliminate unwanted cross-keying. Repair locks and door hardware by adjusting or replacing parts. Re-key door locks. Open file cabinets after key loss by picking, drilling, or shimming. Open vandalized locks by re-coring, extracting debris, dissolving foreign matter, picking or drilling. Change lock functions (i.e. push button to turn button) by changing, modifying, or fabricating parts.

Change combinations, adjust, clean, lubricate and repair safes. Participate in hardware and design master keying system selection. Modify, repair, or construct original lock parts. Work with manager to formulate immediate and long-range plans for upgrading hardware/software continuing the campus keying master plan. Design master key systems for entire buildings, select hardware, and order same. Work with Estimator to prepare job cost estimates for various campus keying projects.

Work with contractors on hardware and keying requirements dealing with new construction. Install and repair door systems including locks, closers, safety glass, strikes and hinges. Order hardware, parts and maintain bench stock.

Two (2) years of locksmith experience that includes hardware maintenance, replacement, and troubleshooting; cutting and fabricating keys. Carpentry experience. Considerable knowledge of locks and institutional master key systems. Familiarization with access control systems including electronic access and key distribution systems. Demonstrated competence using personal computers and software, such as word processing, spreadsheets, electronic calendars, and email. Microsoft Office Suite is preferred.

Working knowledge of NFPA
80 and NFPA
101.

Experience installing and maintaining access control systems including electronic access and key distribution systems. Experience pinning and installing small format interchangeable cores and master ring cylinders. Familiarization in low voltage systems. Experience in a large institutional setting.

Consistently exercise initiative and good judgment;
Effectively and safely operate work-related equipment and tools;
Accurately follow written and oral instructions and procedures;
Work successfully with minimal supervision;
Communicate effectively with co-workers, supervisors, contractors, and the campus community;
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, coworkers and the public;
Be a successful team player;
Provide excellent customer service;
Represent the department and MSU to others in a professional and courteous manner.

Must possess a valid driver's license, an acceptable driving record, and meet all State of Montana requirements to operate State/University vehicles. (If successful candidate possesses a valid out-of-state driver's license, must obtain a valid Montana driver's license within 60 days of hire.) Position duties require the ability to meet the physical demands affiliated with maintenance, repair, renovation, and replacement of University facilities.

With or without reasonable accommodation, must be able to:
Perform physical labor including transporting up to 50 pounds while going up stairs. Work from scaffolds and ladders. Perform overhead work. Safely and effectively operate a wide variety of tools, equipment, and vehicles. Working conditions include exposure to temperature extremes, inclement weather, fumes, dust, noise, heights, power tools and equipment, and research-related activities.

Number of Vacancies - 1

Screening of applications will begin on July 16, 2026; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.

Required Documents