People who want to become an elevator installer and repairman enjoy technology and have a keen eye towards mechanical workings. These are individuals who aid in maintaining and repairing broken elevators, but also work in the field providing annual inspections to ensure buildings are up to code. Their job is critically important. In order to have the proper training and education, these individuals need to follow a path of learning that includes trade school and an apprenticeship. To learn more about what becoming an elevator installer or repairman means, consider the following.

Job Overview

$70,910
High School or GED
None
Apprenticeship
19,900
11%
2,300

Find Related CareersSOURCE: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Individuals working as inspectors or installers of elevator systems often will spend their time working in physically difficult and challenging situations. Their job involves an understanding of electrical systems, with some professionals in this field also being certified to provide electrical services as well. These individuals must work with the building construction team, designers, architects, and owners to develop an effective, safe, and stable system based on the type of lifting necessary.

These individuals will need to life and carry heavy equipment on a regular basis. They will also need to be on call, in some cases, 24 hours a day. This may be necessary to ensure individuals are able to get out of stuck elevators in critical locations, especially in hospital settings. The work may involve tasks such as estimating and installing elevator systems, replacing old systems through refurbishment, aiding in the design of buildings that will accommodate these systems, and in repairing problems.

In addition, many elevator companies also provides related services. This includes the installation and repair of moving walkways, escalators, and other types of lift systems. This includes commercial and industrial services. The job can vary based on the type of business the individual works with or owns.

Requirements and Qualifications

In most situations, individuals working in any aspect of elevator service, including installation, operation, repair, and inspection, will need to have a training and certification to do so. The laws are different from one area of the country to the next, but generally the goal is to ensure these individuals have the knowledge necessary to safeguard elevator operations within any area. Meeting and maintaining knowledge of building codes is also necessary. In some cases, continuing education may be necessary.

Typical Educational Requirements

For people who want to become an elevator installer or repairer, the first step is to obtain a high school diploma or the equivalent. Most people will then enter into a trade school to learn the skills necessary. While there is no actual degree requirement, those people who work in this industry will need to have ample skills and hands on knowledge. Trade school education helps to ensure this is the case. Only select schools offer this type of training.

In addition, most individuals will need to go through an apprenticeship program, according to the National Elevator Industry Educational Program. This program allows the individual to spend between 12 months and two years working alongside trained and certified professionals. In doing so, these individuals get hands on training in the workplace. This helps to prepare the individual for the demands of the job and provides experience that is nearly always necessary.

Salary or Job Outlook

The demand for installers and repair technicians in this field varies. The Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that between 2010 and 2020, an estimated 2300 additional positions will be added to payrolls in this industry. This is about an 11 percent growth rate. The agency also states that the 2010 median pay for an individual in this field is $70,910 per year. Individuals interested in entering the field often need to start with basic education and will need to commit to learning in-depth electrical and architectural design.