Hardware Quality Control Specialist-Locksmith/Keying Specialist in Tacoma, Washington at Frontier Door & Cabinet

POSITION SUMMARY

The Hardware Quality Control Specialist is a highly detail-oriented, hands-on role responsible for ensuring the accuracy, functionality, and readiness of all door hardware and keying systems prior to delivery and installation.

This position serves as the final quality gate for all keying and hardware preparation and operates within a two-person team environment. The role requires strict adherence to SOPs, disciplined recordkeeping, and proactive coordination with Production, Warehouse, and Project Management teams.

The ideal candidate demonstrates GRIT — the ability to execute consistently, take ownership, maintain focus under pressure, and drive issues to resolution without sacrificing quality.

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CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Bench Keying & Hardware Quality Control (Approx. 50%)

· Perform bench keying for new construction projects in accordance with keying schedules and project requirements

· Verify keying matrix, door schedules, and hardware sets for accuracy prior to execution

· Ensure all hardware is correct, complete, and aligned with work orders and specifications

· Identify, document, and escalate discrepancies between:

o Keying schedules

o Door/hardware schedules

o Work orders / ERP data

· Maintain accurate, organized, and traceable records of all keying activities

· Ensure hardware and materials are staged, transferred, and ready to support Correct, Complete, On-Time (C-C-O-T) delivery

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2. Quality Gate & Release Authority

· Act as the final quality control checkpoint for all keying and hardware prior to release to production, staging, or shipping

· Approve or reject work based on compliance with specifications, schedules, and SOPs

· Prevent defective, incomplete, or misaligned hardware/keying from leaving the facility

· Take ownership of identified issues and drive them to resolution before release

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3. Service, Warranty & Field Support (Approx. 20%)

· Respond to service calls, including:

o Warranty issues

o Change orders

o Field discrepancies

· Diagnose and resolve hardware and keying issues in the field or remotely

· Communicate effectively with field teams, PMs, and customers

· Document service activity and outcomes for tracking and continuous improvement

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4. Project Management & Technical Support (Approx. 20%)

· Act as a technical resource for Project Managers and internal teams

· Provide guidance on:

o Hardware compatibility

o Keying strategies

o Application and installation considerations

· Assist in reviewing project requirements to proactively prevent errors

· Support alignment between purchasing, production, and field execution

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5. Operational Support (Approx. 10%)

· Support warehouse and production operations during downtime, including:

o Material handling

o Inventory support

o General shop assistance

· Maintain flexibility to support overall operational flow as business needs require

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QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

· Minimum 2 years of locksmith experience (commercial or residential)

· Proven experience with keying systems and hardware preparation

· Strong ability to read and interpret:

o Door schedules

o Hardware sets

o Keying matrix’s

· Demonstrated ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) with precision

· Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

· Valid driver’s license and ability to perform service calls

Preferred:

· Experience with SimpleK keying software

· Experience with Microsoft suite, excel, teams, outlook, word, power apps

· Experience in commercial door, frame, and hardware environments

· Familiarity with applicable codes and standards (NFPA, ANSI/BHMA, etc.)

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KEY COMPETENCIES

· GRIT: Consistent execution, ownership, and follow-through regardless of obstacles

· Accuracy: High level of precision in keying, verification, and documentation

· Accountability: Takes responsibility for outcomes and drives resolution

· Communication: Clear and effective coordination across departments

· Problem Solving: Identifies root causes and prevents recurrence

· Adaptability: Comfortable shifting between bench work, field service, and operational support

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SUCCESS METRICS (EXAMPLES)

· Keying accuracy rate (minimal rework or field failures)

· Reduction in hardware/keying-related RMAs and callbacks

· Service call response and resolution time

· Alignment between keying schedules and delivered product

· Effectiveness in preventing errors prior to release (quality gate performance)

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WORK ENVIRONMENT

· Combination of:

o Shop/bench work

o Warehouse/production floor

o Occasional field/service calls

· Requires handling of door hardware, tools, and materials

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

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FINAL NOTE

This role is critical to ensuring all projects are delivered Correct, Complete, and On-Time. The Hardware Quality Control Specialist is expected to operate with discipline, precision, and GRIT, acting as the final line of defense against errors and ensuring the highest level of quality before product leaves the facility.