As a Locksmith in the Department of National Defence, you will be responsible for the installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement of locks, locking mechanisms, and security hardware on military facilities, equipment, and infrastructure. You will work with various types of locks including mechanical, electronic, and specialized security systems to ensure the protection of personnel, equipment, and classified materials. Your expertise will be essential in maintaining the security integrity of DND buildings, vehicles, and sensitive areas across Canada and potentially at international locations.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include diagnosing lock and security hardware problems, selecting appropriate solutions, and executing repairs or installations to specification. You will read technical drawings and specifications, work with hand and power tools, and sometimes collaborate with other trades professionals and security personnel. You will also maintain detailed records of all work performed, manage inventory of locks and hardware, and ensure compliance with DND security standards and building codes.
Locksmiths in DND work in a variety of environments ranging from administrative offices to operational facilities, aircraft hangars, and naval vessels. The work is hands-on and practical, requiring attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to security protocols. You may work standard business hours or be on-call for emergency lock-outs and security issues depending on your posting and operational requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Perform specialty trades tasks maintaining government facilities and assets, Operate tools, equipment, and machinery safely, Follow technical specifications and safety procedures, Maintain records of work performed and materials used
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To become a Locksmith with DND, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent (Grade 12). Many candidates bring relevant experience through apprenticeships or prior work in locksmith, security systems, or related trades. Some positions may require or prefer a completed locksmith apprenticeship under a provincial trade certification body.
Once hired, you will receive on-the-job training and may be enrolled in formal DND locksmith training programs to learn military-specific lock systems, security requirements, and procedures. Depending on your posting, you may pursue certifications in electronic lock systems, access control systems, or advanced security hardware. Professional development opportunities include courses in new locking technologies, security systems integration, and potential advancement into supervisory or specialized security roles. DND also supports employees pursuing formal apprenticeship completion or provincial trade certifications in locksmithing where applicable.
Entry Plans
You can enter the Locksmith career with DND through several pathways. The primary route is through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank and DND's careers website, where positions are posted as they become available. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents and typically require you to submit an application and pass an assessment process that may include practical demonstrations of locksmith skills.
If you are already a member of the Canadian Armed Forces or a DND civilian employee, you may be able to transfer or apply internally through posted competitions with priority consideration. Some positions may be filled through staffing pools or priority hire lists established by previous recruitment campaigns. Students or recent graduates may find opportunities through DND's student employment programs, which can provide entry-level exposure to the trade and a pathway to permanent positions.
Lateral moves from related trades such as carpentry, general maintenance, or security-related positions are also possible, particularly if you have transferable skills and are willing to complete locksmith-specific training. It is recommended to monitor the Government of Canada Job Bank regularly, contact your local DND recruiting office, and review opportunities at specific military bases or installations where you are interested in working.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements for Locksmiths in DND vary depending on the specific position and operational needs of your posting. Many locksmith positions are full-time to ensure consistent availability for security-critical maintenance and emergency response. However, some facilities or administrative positions may offer part-time or term-based opportunities.
Remote work is not typical for locksmith positions, as the role requires hands-on work with physical locks and security hardware on-site at military facilities. Your work schedule may include standard business hours, shift work, or on-call availability for emergency lock-outs and urgent security issues depending on the facility and its operational tempo. If you require flexible arrangements due to personal circumstances, it is best to discuss possibilities during the recruitment process or with your manager once hired, as accommodations may be available depending on operational requirements and staffing levels at your posting.
