Qualifications
So how do you score a job like this? By receiving advanced degrees in engineering and mechanical theory? Nope—to get a nifty job as a locksmith, you don't need a college degree or even a high school diploma (life hack: get it anyway). In some states, you don't even need a license (although in most you do). What you always need, however, is training.
Locksmiths usually get trained through a program at a community college or by working with a professional locksmith (also known as an apprenticeship). The more advanced you want your locksmith game to be―like repairing electronic security systems as opposed to a simple doorknob―the more training you'll need.
Of course, with more training comes more opportunities to apply for professional certifications, which should guarantee you get paid professional wages.
There are other, more ingrained qualities locksmiths should have. Dexterity, or nimble fingers, will help you fiddle with even the fussiest lock. Cutting keys needs pretty spot-on hand-eye coordination―as does keeping your hand from miscoordinating a power tool into your eye. You'll use math more often than not, and if you deal with modern security, you'll have to know a thing or two about computers. There's a lot more to this gig than jiggling the key until it opens.