Lock and Security Specialist (Assistant Locksmith)
Bureau of Prisons/Federal Prison System
Posted: April 13, 2026 (0 days ago)
This job was posted recently. Fresh listings typically have less competition.
United States Army Installation Management Command
Department of the Army
Location
Fort Hood, Texas
Salary
$27.31 - $31.86
per hour
Type
Full-Time
More Maintenance & Trades jobs →Closes
Base salary range: $147,649 - $221,900
Typical requirements: Executive-level leadership experience. Senior executive qualifications required.
Note: Actual salary includes locality pay (15-40%+ depending on location).
This job involves installing, repairing, and maintaining locks, safes, and security systems on a U.S. Army base in Fort Hood, Texas, including making keys and fixing doors after break-ins.
It's a hands-on role for someone who works well with tools and follows safety rules under general supervision.
A good fit would be a practical person with experience in locksmithing or similar mechanical work, who can handle routine tasks independently.
This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: The installation rests in the beautiful 'hill and lake' country of Central Texas between Killeen and Copperas Cove and is approximately 60 miles north of the capital city of Austin, 50 miles south of Waco, 160 miles south of Dallas, and 150 miles north of San Antonio.
Who May Apply: US Citizens Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social).
You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. There is no specific length of training or experience required.
However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element) WG-09: Ability to do the work of a(n) Locksmith ~ without more than normal supervision. I have the ability to perform common Locksmith tasks.
I am skilled in the installation, repair, and/or maintenance of installed lock systems. I can repair or fabricate parts for locks, safes, vaults, etc.
I can make duplicate bit, flute steel, cylinder and double-sided keys by impression or duplication methods.
I am skilled in the operation of key machines in cutting delicate keys and buffer in smoothing edges. I can ensure that proper safety equipment is used.
I can repair or replace portions of jambs due to break-ins. I can repair or replace hinges and door closures to ensure proper closing and locking of doors.
I can paint and touch up doors due to break-ins or when neutralization of lock occurs. I can modify doors to fit proper locking device. I keep supervisor informed of status of work projects.
I work under normal supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed.
- Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element) WG-10: Ability to do the work of a(n) Locksmith ~ without more than normal supervision. I have the ability to perform common Locksmith tasks.
I am skilled in the installation, repair, and/or maintenance of installed lock systems.
I can set up codes using small and precision tools to make up coded locks and keys for all locks as required for the several types of keys to include master and ground master.
I can keep records of material used and time spent on projects. I can ensure the necessary material is available for assigned projects.
I am skilled in using a drill press, grinding wheel, or buffer key cutting machine, and a variety of common hand tools. I can repair or fabricate parts for locks, safes, vaults, etc.
I can make duplicate bit, flute steel, cylinder and double-sided keys by impression or duplication methods.
I am skilled in the operation of key machines in cutting delicate keys and buffer in smoothing edges. I can ensure that proper safety equipment is used.
I can observe and enforce safety rules and regulations. I can use manipulation procedures or special drilling equipment to neutralize lockouts.
I can repair security items in accordance with current directive prior to return to service. I can repair or replace portions of jambs due to break-ins.
I can repair or replace hinges and door closures to ensure proper closing and locking of doors. I can paint and touch up doors due to break-ins or when neutralization of lock occurs.
I can modify doors to fit proper locking device. I work on my own initiative under general supervision subject to occasional inspection. I keep supervisor informed of status of work projects.
I work under normal supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed.
- Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating. Physical Effort: Work requires standing, walking, stooping, and bending.
Some lifting is required of objects normally not exceeding 50 pounds. Incumbent may assist in moving heavy cabinets and security containers.
Working Conditions: Work is normally performed in well lighted, heated, and ventilated offices and shops.
Incumbent is exposed to dust, oil, grease, and dirt when cleaning and lubricating machines and frequently to the possibility of minor cuts and bruises. Major Duties:
Check your resume before applying to catch common mistakes