Hardware Quality Control Specialist-Locksmith​/Keying Specialist; Tacoma, WA

Hardware Quality Control Specialist-Locksmith/Keying Specialist (Tacoma, WA)

Pay: $28.00 – 32.00 Per Hour

The Hardware Quality Control Specialist is a highly detail-oriented, hands-on role responsible for ensuring the accuracy, functionality, and readiness of all door hardware and keying systems prior to delivery and installation.

This position serves as the final quality gate for all keying and hardware preparation and operates within a two-person team environment. The role requires strict adherence to SOPs, disciplined recordkeeping, and proactive coordination with Production, Warehouse, and Project Management teams.

The ideal candidate demonstrates GRIT — the ability to execute consistently, take ownership, maintain focus under pressure, and drive issues to resolution without sacrificing quality.

1. Bench Keying & Hardware Quality Control (Approx. 50%)

• Perform bench keying for new construction projects in accordance with keying schedules and project requirements
• Verify keying matrix, door schedules, and hardware sets for accuracy prior to execution
• Ensure all hardware is correct, complete, and aligned with work orders and specifications
• Identify, document, and escalate discrepancies between:
  • Keying schedules
  • Door/hardware schedules
  • Work orders / ERP data
• Maintain accurate, organized, and traceable records of all keying activities
• Ensure hardware and materials are staged, transferred, and ready to support Correct, Complete, On-Time (C-C-O-T) delivery

2. Quality Gate & Release Authority

• Act as the final quality control checkpoint for all keying and hardware prior to release to production, staging, or shipping
• Approve or reject work based on compliance with specifications, schedules, and SOPs
• Prevent defective, incomplete, or misaligned hardware/keying from leaving the facility
• Take ownership of identified issues and drive them to resolution before release

3. Service, Warranty & Field Support (Approx. 20%)

• Respond to service calls, including:
  • Warranty issues
  • Change orders
  • Field discrepancies
• Diagnose and resolve hardware and keying issues in the field or remotely
• Communicate effectively with field teams, PMs, and customers
• Document service activity and outcomes for tracking and continuous improvement

4. Project Management & Technical Support (Approx. 20%)

• Act as a technical resource for Project Managers and internal teams
• Hardware compatibility
• Keying strategies
• Application and installation considerations
• Assist in reviewing project requirements to proactively prevent errors
• Support alignment between purchasing, production, and field execution

5. Operational Support (Approx. 10%)

• Support warehouse and production operations during downtime, including:
  • Material handling
  • Inventory support
  • General shop assistance
• Maintain flexibility to support overall operational flow as business needs require

Required:

• Minimum 2 years of locksmith experience (commercial or residential)
• Proven experience with keying systems and hardware preparation
• Strong ability to read and interpret:
  • Door schedules
  • Hardware sets
  • Keying matrix’s
• Demonstrated ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) with precision
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Valid driver’s license and ability to perform service calls

Preferred:

• Experience with Simple
  
  K keying software
• Experience with Microsoft suite, excel, teams, outlook, word, power apps
• Experience in commercial door, frame, and hardware environments
• Familiarity with applicable codes and standards (NFPA, ANSI/BHMA, etc.)

GRIT:
Consistent execution, ownership, and follow-through regardless of obstacles

Accuracy:
High level of precision in keying, verification, and documentation

Accountability:
Takes responsibility for outcomes and drives resolution

Communication:
Clear and effective coordination across departments

Problem Solving:
Identifies root causes and prevents recurrence

Adaptability:
Comfortable shifting between bench work, field service, and operational support

• Keying accuracy rate (minimal rework or field failures)
• Reduction in hardware/keying-related RMAs and callbacks
• Service call response and resolution time
• Alignment between keying schedules and delivered product
• Effectiveness in preventing errors prior to release (quality gate performance)

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Combination of:

Shop/bench work

Warehouse/production floor

Occasional field/service calls

• Requires handling of door hardware, tools, and materials

Frontier Door and Cabinet’s Safety Program and all established safety rules must be followed, and equipment used where required.