The Hacker perk provides essentially the same benefit although it doesn't apply nearly as often as Locksmith does. Its not essential for the game but opening locks offers quick & easy xp, and the game's constant refreshing of loot ensures there will always be plenty to pick. You should have the Sole Survivor get the first three levels of the Locksmith perk early on. I'll second most of the suggestions already made here and add a few others.
