How to Become an Elevator Technician
An elevator technician is a skilled professional who installs, maintains, and repairs elevators. Their job duties may include everything from working on the machinery that moves the elevator car up and down to replacing worn out carpeting. While some companies have strict requirements for hiring technicians, others will train you on-the-job. Either way, the path to becoming an elevator technician is not difficult.
Requirements
Elevator technicians must possess a high school diploma or equivalent training in order to enter the field. In addition, they must have completed at least one year of technical school or apprenticeship training program. The National Elevator Industry Education Program offers training for those who want to become certified elevator technicians. The coursework includes both classroom instruction and hands-on experience repairing elevators in various settings such as shopping malls or apartment buildings. Students will also learn about how to use tools such as screwdrivers and hammers safely while completing their coursework.
Career Outlook
The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that there were approximately 804,000 elevator installers and repairers employed nationwide in 2016. This number is expected to increase by 18 percent between 2016 through 2026.
How To Become Elevator Technician
An elevator technician is a professional mechanic who specializes in assembling, installing, repairing, and performing maintenance tasks on elevators, escalators, motor walkways, and other types of electric lifts. They must have extensive knowledge of electrical wiring and operations, mechanics, and tools to perform the tasks required of them.
| Job Type | Elevator Technician |
| Education | 4-year apprenticeship |
| License and Certification | License required in most states, optional CET, CAT, or QEI certification |
| Skills | Math, mechanical aptitude, electrical, physical strength/stamina |
| Median Salary (2020)* | $88,540 (for elevator installers and repairers) |
| Job Outlook (2020-2030)* | 6% (for elevator installers and repairers) |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
How to Become an Elevator Mechanic
Currently, elevator technicians only need an apprenticeship and a state license to work, but there are a few options available for education, training, and certification. Below is a list of 5 steps that can guide an individual in becoming an elevator mechanic.
Step 1: Research Elevator Technician Skills
Elevator installers and repairers need a rather specific set of skills to succeed. While much of what they do can be learned through an apprenticeship and training, it can help an individual to know what skills they will need beforehand to figure out if this is the right path for them. Additionally, many apprenticeships look for applicants who demonstrate a working knowledge of some of these skills, so it can be beneficial to get a head start.
Some skills required for elevator mechanics include:
- Mechanical skills/knowledge of power tools
- Electrical skills/working knowledge of wiring
- Ability to diagnose elevator problems and repair them accordingly
- Ability to read and understand blueprints and diagrams
- Physical strength and stamina
- Math
Some of these skills are taught in high school classes, but they can also be obtained through self-study courses or undergraduate certificate programs. Additionally, electrical and mechanical skills can be learned through an associate’s degree in electrical engineering, which can be a good foundational education in preparation for future training.
Step 2: Consider a Job in Construction
Many elevator technician apprenticeships require or prefer experience and/or working knowledge in construction because it similarly deals with maintenance, mechanic, electrical, and power tool operations. Aspiring elevator technicians should also be able to read and understand diagrams and blueprints. Entry-level construction jobs typically provide on-the-job training and candidates typically need to take a 10-hour course on safety precautions. They also require applicants to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED.
Step 3: Seek an Elevator Mechanic Apprenticeship
Elevator technician school doesn’t exist in the context of formal education. Elevator mechanic training is done through an apprenticeship instead, where apprentices learn from shadowing an experienced elevator mechanic. Elevator apprenticeships last 4 years and may be offered by individual contractors, industry associations, or unions. Application requirements may vary according to who is offering the training, but candidates usually must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or equivalent, have physical strength and stamina, and pass basic math, reading, and mechanical aptitude assessments.
During the apprenticeship, apprentices will learn theoretical, mechanical, and practical skills in electrical operations, math, physics, safety, blueprint reading, and the different parts of elevators and escalators. Each year of the apprenticeship consists of at least 144 hours of technical instruction and a minimum of 2,000 hours of paid training. Some apprenticeships may instruct Association-approved programs, which can be done online. In states that require it, apprentices will receive a license once they complete their training.
Step 4: Consider a Certification Program
While certification is not required, the National Association of Elevator Contractors offers Division of Labor-approved certifications that can be obtained online. The three programs are:
- Certified Elevator Technician (CET)
- Certified Accessibility and Private Residence Lift Technicians (CAT)
- Qualified Elevator Inspectors (QEI)
CET is the basic certification program and is offered by some apprenticeships. Independent candidates can also apply as long as they provide proof of training. The program lasts 4 years and certification is obtained through an exam. The CAT program follows the same model, but only takes 2 years to complete. Lastly, QEI certification can only be obtained by passing an exam; there is no education program. Applicants to QEI will need to provide proof of training and prior experience.
Step 5: Apply for Elevator Technician Jobs
After becoming licensed and/or achieving certification, it will be time to look for elevator technician jobs. Elevator technicians often work in cramped, dirty, or greasy spaces, such as crawl spaces or elevator shafts. They usually need to be able to lift from 50-200 pounds and may spend extended periods standing. These technicians can specialize in the installation, maintenance, or repair of elevators and other electric lifting devices, and depending on the specialization, may complete tasks alone or as part of a team.
