transportation

How To Get A Job As An Elevator Installer And Repairer

Elevator Installers and Repairman (also known as Elevator Mechanics or Constructors) assemble, install, adjust, repair and test elevators, both passenger and freight, moving walkways, escalators, dumb waiters, and home stair lifts for the elderly, the infirm, as well as for wheelchairs.  These professionals must be highly skilled and responsible, as their work must ensure both the comfort and the safety of the individuals who use the devices involved.

If you want to get a job as an Elevator Installer and Repairman, you must be reliable,  a good communicator, and have excellent coordination.  You must be precise, and a good problem solver with an analytical mind.  You must have excellent computer skills and be adept with using hard and software programs.  You must be steady when working and comfortable working in confined spaces or at heights.  You must also have good vision for close-up work and a steady hand.  Installers and Repairers must be in good physical condition as considerable bending, kneeling, and reaching may be involved in the work.  It may be necessary to lift and carry heavy equipment.  Protective clothing and safety gear are often required.

Those who work with elevators usually work regular hours with the possibility of being on call when overtime is needed.  Installers and Repairers work almost entirely indoors, in private homes, apartments,  and public buildings such as offices and airports.

Elevator Installers and Repairers have a variety of duties  When working on new installations, they may with the help of blueprints and computers, first determine how the job will be laid out.  They then assemble the necessary equipment, and proceed with the installation, using both hand and power tools.  They must then connect electrical and electronic components, adjusting and testing as necessary.

Elevator Installers and Repairers also maintain existing installations, update old equipment, and perform repairs, ascertaining the problem and then adjusting, repairing, or replacing parts as needed.  Keeping within the strict guidelines regarding safety regulations and building codes, Installers and Repairers test for performance and safety.  They keep detailed records of their work.

There are still excellent job opportunities for skilled, educated Elevator Installers and Repairers.

Education

If you are still in high school and would like to become an Elevator Installer and Repairer, take courses in English, physics, computer technology, and mathematics.  Courses in electronics or drafting, if available, would also be very useful.

To start your education in this field, you must have a high school diploma and be at least eighteen years of age.  The next step is to enter an apprenticeship program.  Although it may not be required, it would be advisable, if possible, to get a certificate of associate degree in electronics first, as this will enable you to advance more rapidly and be eligible for more elevated positions.

Most apprenticeship programs are run jointly by employers and unions.  They usually run for four years and combine academic courses with on the job training under the supervision of experienced Elevator Mechanics.  Among other things, apprentices learn blueprint reading, electronic and electrical theory, job safety, applicable mathematics and computer programs.  In on the job training they start by helping to move and carry equipment and move on to more complex tasks and procedures.  Apprentices are paid as they work.

Once you have completed your apprenticeship, you will want to write your licensing exam.  This is not always required but more and more cities and states are demanding better qualified and licensed Elevator Mechanics, so take the exam as it will demonstrate that you are serious about getting a job and advancing in your chosen profession.   The exam is administered by the National Elevator Industry Educational Program.

It is also advantageous, though not essential, for Elevator Installers and Repairers to become certified.  Certification is a testament to your level of skill and experience and is a decided advantage for those who are serious about their profession.  Certification information is available from the National Association of Elevator Contractors.

If you get a job as an Elevator Installer and Repairer, and have sufficient education and experience, you can advance to positions as supervisors, managers, inspectors and elevator product salesman.