Locksmith

Position Overview

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 distribution systems. Facilities Services Locksmiths perform locksmithing and access control work including maintenance, replacement, management, and support of these systems.

• 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 (e.g., 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 plans.
• Design master key systems for entire buildings, select hardware, and order the 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.
• Familiarity 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.
• Familiarity with 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, co‑workers and the public.
• Be a successful team player.
• Provide excellent customer service.
• Represent the department and Montana State University professionally and courteously.

• 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.
• Work conditions include exposure to temperature extremes, inclement weather, fumes, dust, noise, heights, power tools and equipment, and research‑related activities.

Contractual salary:
Locksmith I – $33.90 per hour;
Locksmith II – $35.91 per hour;
Locksmith III – $38.04 per hour.

Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law. In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans.