Locksmithing
Federal Wage Grade locksmithing position installing, repairing, and maintaining locks, safes, and physical security hardware at federal buildings, military installations, and government facilities.
💰WG-4804 Salary Information
Federal Wage System Pay
Federal Wage Grade (WG) pay varies by geographic location and is determined by local prevailing wage surveys.
Look Up WG Pay by LocationSource: DoD Civilian Personnel Advisory Service
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for WG-4804
Qualification requirements not yet available for this series.
🎖️Tips for Veterans
- ✓Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- ✓Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- ✓Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- ✓Experience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
📝How to Qualify for WG-4804
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal locksmithing position
- 1
Review Trade/Craft Requirements
WG positions require demonstrated skill in a specific trade or craft. Review the job announcement for required certifications, licenses, and hands-on experience.
- 2
Document Your Experience
WG positions are experience-based, not grade-based. Document your years of hands-on trade experience, apprenticeships completed, and journeyman status if applicable.
- 3
Gather Credentials
Collect your DD-214, trade certifications (welding, electrical, HVAC, etc.), apprenticeship completion certificates, and any specialized licenses required for your trade.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume highlighting your hands-on trade experience, tools and equipment operated, safety training, and specific projects completed. Include hours worked per week.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for WG positions in your trade specialty, carefully answer assessment questions about your skill level and experience, and submit before the closing date.
📋Typical Duties
- •Perform skilled trade work in accordance with established standards, specifications, and safety procedures
- •Operate, maintain, and repair trade-specific equipment, tools, and machinery
- •Read and interpret blueprints, technical manuals, work orders, and specifications
- •Inspect completed work for quality, accuracy, and compliance with requirements
- •Maintain tools, equipment, and work areas in clean, safe, and operational condition
- •Document work performed including time, materials used, and completion status
- •Coordinate with supervisors and other trades on project requirements and schedules
- •Follow all safety protocols including proper use of PPE and hazardous material handling
- •Train and assist lower-grade workers in trade techniques and procedures
- •Requisition materials, parts, and supplies needed to complete assigned work
🎯Key Competencies
Understanding of trade-specific tools, equipment, materials, and techniques required for the position
Physical coordination and skill in using hands and tools to perform precise work
Knowledge of workplace safety procedures, OSHA standards, and proper use of personal protective equipment
Ability to diagnose issues, troubleshoot problems, and determine effective repair solutions
Attention to detail ensuring work meets specifications, standards, and quality requirements
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, diagrams, and work orders
Proficiency in operating trade-specific machinery, power tools, and specialized equipment
Knowledge of preventive maintenance, inspection protocols, and equipment care
Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and customers about work status
Flexibility to work in various conditions and adjust to changing priorities and assignments
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
Grade information not available
❓Frequently Asked Questions about WG-4804
What is a federal Locksmith?
A federal Locksmith (WG-4804) installs, repairs, and maintains locks, safes, and physical security hardware at federal buildings, military installations, and government facilities. They support facility security by ensuring access control systems function properly.
How much does a federal Locksmith make?
Federal Locksmiths (WG-4804) are paid under the Federal Wage System based on local prevailing rates. Journeyman wages (WG-9/10) typically range $26-$40 per hour depending on locality. Annual earnings range $54,000-$83,000. Safe technicians earn higher rates.
What are the requirements for WG-4804 positions?
WG-4804 requires demonstrated locksmithing skills. Qualifications include lock installation and repair, key cutting, safe servicing, electronic access systems, and ability to work with classified security hardware. Background investigation is typically required.
Can military experience substitute for education in WG-4804?
Military security or key control experience provides some foundation. MOSs involving facility security, armory operations, or access control have some relevance. However, locksmith training or apprenticeship provides the specific technical skills needed.
What is the career progression for Locksmithing?
Locksmiths progress through skill levels to journeyman (WG-9/10) and lead positions. Career advancement includes physical security specialist roles, safe and vault technician certification, or transition to GS security specialist (GS-0080) positions.
How do I apply for WG-4804 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Locksmith' or series '4804.' Positions exist at federal buildings, military installations, and secure facilities. Highlight your locksmith certification, experience with high-security hardware, and clean background. Veterans receive preference.
Ready to Apply for WG-4804?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.