About this role
Where Skilled Trades Build Lasting Careers.
For nearly 60 years, Alarm Detection Systems (ADS) has helped businesses and homeowners protect what matters most through trusted security, fire alarm, video surveillance, access control, and other security solutions.
We're looking for a Locksmith who enjoys hands-on work, solving mechanical challenges, and providing exceptional customer service. In this role, you'll install, repair, and maintain locks, safes, and other locking devices while helping ensure our customers' homes and businesses remain secure.
This is a field-based, physically demanding position that includes participation in a rotating night on-call schedule. You'll travel to residential and commercial customer locations, work independently to resolve service needs, and use your technical expertise to deliver reliable, high-quality solutions.
If you're mechanically inclined, take pride in quality craftsmanship, and want to build a lasting career with a company that values skilled professionals, we'd love to meet you.
Why Join ADS?
At ADS, our culture is built on five core values:
- Customer First – We put our customers at the center of everything we do.
- Do What You Say—and Whatever It Takes – We honor our commitments and follow through.
- Embrace Change & Pursue Growth – We continuously learn, improve, and adapt.
- Be a Team Player – We collaborate, support one another, and succeed together.
- Care About People – We genuinely care about our customers, coworkers, and the communities we serve.
At ADS, we know skilled tradespeople are essential to keeping our customers safe. That's why we invest in the people who do the work. As a Locksmith, you'll have opportunities to apply your craftsmanship across a variety of residential and commercial environments, from traditional lock and key systems to electronic access control hardware.
Whether you're looking to expand your knowledge of mechanical and electronic locking systems, strengthen your technical skills, or build a long-term career with a company that's been serving customers for nearly 60 years, ADS is committed to helping you grow.
Benefits & Perks
We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, financial future, and professional growth.
- Company-Provided Vehicle
- Company Cell Phone and Laptop
- Tool Allowance Program
- Medical Insurance with Multiple Plan Options
- Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- 401(k) with Tiered Employer Match
- Paid Time Off (PTO) starting at 3 weeks per year
- Eight Paid Holidays Annually
- Paid Parental Leave
- Employer-Paid Short-Term Disability
- Optional Long-Term Disability
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Pet Insurance Discount
- Employee, Friends & Family Discounts on Security Systems and Monitoring Services
- Professional Development and Ongoing Training
- Company-Sponsored Events (Friends and Family Welcome!)
- A Positive, Team-Oriented Work Environment
How You'll Make an Impact
As a Locksmith, you'll help customers protect their homes, businesses, and property by providing dependable locksmith services and professional solutions to their security needs.
In this role, you will:
- Install, maintain, modify, and repair residential and commercial locks, deadbolts, safes, and other locking devices.
- Troubleshoot and resolve residential and commercial lockouts while providing responsive, professional customer service.
- Re-key locks, create master keys, reset combinations, and perform adjustments to ensure proper operation.
- Evaluate customer needs and recommend appropriate locks, hardware, and security solutions for new or replacement installations.
- Install and repair safes and related locking mechanisms.
- Cut, drill, and prepare doors and other surfaces for proper lock and hardware installation using hand and power tools.
- Install electric door strikes, electronic locking hardware, and related components used in access control systems.
- Assist with basic low-voltage components and door hardware associated with electronic access control installations.
- Diagnose mechanical and electronic locking issues and determine appropriate repair solutions.
- Complete accurate service documentation, including work performed, materials used, and customer interactions.
- Communicate clearly with customers regarding service findings, completed repairs, and proper operation of locking systems.
- Maintain company-issued tools, equipment, vehicle, and inventory in a clean, organized, and service-ready condition.
- Follow ADS safety policies, procedures, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Participate in the department's rotating night on-call schedule to support after-hours service needs.
- Maintain punctuality, dependable attendance, and professional conduct while representing ADS at customer locations.
What Makes You a Great Fit
You're someone who:
- Enjoys hands-on mechanical work and solving technical challenges.
- Takes pride in precise, high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
- Has strong mechanical aptitude and enjoys diagnosing and repairing equipment.
- Is comfortable using hand and power tools safely and effectively.
- Understands traditional locking systems, safes, and access control-related door hardware.
- Can work independently, manage service calls, and take ownership of customer needs.
- Communicates professionally and confidently with customers and coworkers.
- Is organized, dependable, and committed to safety.
- Enjoys learning new techniques, products, and security technologies.
- Values teamwork, customer satisfaction, and getting the job done right.
Background & Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Minimum of 3 years of locksmith experience or experience in a related skilled trade strongly preferred.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and experience troubleshooting, repairing, and adjusting mechanical equipment.
- Proficiency using hand and power tools, including drills, grinders, saws, and related equipment.
- Working knowledge of locks, safes, door hardware, and locking mechanisms.
- Basic understanding of electricity and low-voltage electronics as they relate to locking and access control systems.
- Ability to read and interpret technical specifications, diagrams, operating manuals, and written instructions.
- Strong manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and attention to detail.
- Basic computer skills and ability to use mobile devices, electronic work orders, and documentation systems.
- Ability to drive a truck and trailer is a plus.
Licenses & Certifications
- Valid driver's license with an insurable driving record required. Driving a company vehicle between residential and commercial customer locations is an essential function of this field-based position.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
- ALOA Locksmith Certification or formal locksmith training highly preferred.
- Medeco training highly preferred.
- Employment is subject to applicable background screening and licensing requirements, consistent with federal and Illinois law.
What to Expect on the Job
As a Locksmith, you'll spend much of your day in the field traveling between residential and commercial customer locations. This is a physically demanding, hands-on position requiring mobility, mechanical precision, and the ability to work safely in a variety of environments.
#ADS25