If you want a practical job working with mechanical and electronic equipment, this could be ideal for you. Electrical repairer and locksmith lays out, builds, tests, troubleshoots, repairs, and modifies developmental and production electronic components, parts, equipment, and systems, such as computer equipment, missile control instrumentation, electron tubes, test equipment, and machine tool numerical controls, applying principles and theories of electronics, electrical circuitry, engineering mathematics, electronic and electrical testing, and physics. They also perform locksmith duties.

Tasks:

1. Adjust or replace defective or improperly functioning circuitry or electronics components, using hand tools or soldering iron.
2. Test electronics units, using standard test equipment, and analyze results to evaluate performance and determine need for adjustment.
3. Perform preventative maintenance or calibration of equipment or systems.
4. Installs, repairs, rebuilds, and services mechanical or electrical locking devices, using handtools and special equipment
5. Fabricate parts, such as coils, terminal boards, or chassis, using bench lathes, drills, or other machine tools.
6. Install alarm and electronic access systems.
7. Read blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematic drawings, or engineering instructions for assembling electronics units, applying knowledge of electronic theory and components.
8. Identify and resolve equipment malfunctions, working with manufacturers or field representatives as necessary to procure replacement parts.
9. Maintain system logs or manuals to document testing or operation of equipment.
10. Research equipment or component needs, sources, competitive prices, delivery times, or ongoing operational costs.

Key skills for locksmith, electrical repairs:

• Willingness to learn constantly
• Can do attitude
• Attention to details
• Customer care skills
• Dependability
• Analytical Thinking

Average salary (2013):

The United Kingdom: £30,000 per year
The United States of America: $58,000 per year
Australia: AU$98,000 per year

Qualifications and training required:

Electrical repairers and locksmiths must understand electrical equipment and electronics. As a result, employers often prefer applicants who have taken courses in electronics at a college or technical/trade school. Most certificate programs take one year to complete and associate degree programs take two years, but both tracks will include classes in math, science and mechanics.
In addition to technical education, workers usually receive training on specific types of equipment. This may entail manufacturer-specific training in order for repairers to perform warranty work. Entry-level repairers usually begin by working with experienced technicians, who provide technical guidance, and work independently after developing their skills.