How to become an elevator mechanic

1. 1Finish high school with math and shop or electrical courses

   Time: 4 years (high school)Sources 2, 1

   A high school diploma or GED is required to apply to the union apprenticeship, and applicants must be at least 17 to apply and 18 to be registered. Algebra, physics, mechanical drawing and any electrical or shop classes help on the aptitude test and in apprenticeship classes. Experience in electrical work, construction or mechanical repair can also strengthen an application and, in some programs, may count toward training.

2. 2Apply to an apprenticeship and pass the aptitude test

   Time: Weeks to 2 yearsCost: $25 EIAT feeSources 2, 3

   Each International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) local opens formal recruitment about every two years. You apply online, then take the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test, which covers basic arithmetic, reading comprehension, mechanical comprehension and tool knowledge. A score of 70% or higher earns a short interview with the joint apprenticeship committee, and candidates are ranked for hiring. Non-union elevator companies hire helpers directly; they can qualify for NAEC's CET credential by completing an approved education program such as NAEC's CET Training Program.

3. 3Complete the paid apprenticeship

   Time: 4-5 yearsCost: No out-of-pocket school cost (IUEC)Sources 2, 8, 1

   NEIEP apprenticeships combine roughly 8,000 hours of on-the-job training with about 600 classroom hours spread over eight semesters, usually one four-hour class night a week. Apprentices earn a percentage of the mechanic's rate that rises as they move through the program. Classes cover safety, blueprints, electrical and electronic theory, hydraulics and elevator and escalator systems, while on the job you work alongside a mechanic on installations, repairs and service.

4. 4Pass the mechanic exam or earn the CET

   Time: After about 8,000 work hoursCost: $0-$170Sources 2, 3, 4

   Union apprentices become eligible for the NEIEP mechanic exam after passing all eight semesters and completing their on-the-job hours; passing makes you a full IUEC mechanic. Outside the union, new applicants for the NAEC Certified Elevator Technician credential qualify by finishing an approved education program, such as the CET Training Program, and then pass a comprehensive exam. The experience-only route is closed to anyone who did not log 10,000 hours by the end of 2007. States that license mechanics, such as New York, may accept either credential.

5. 5Get your state license and keep it current

   Time: A few weeks; renew every 1-2 yearsCost: Set by each stateSources 4, 5

   Most states license elevator mechanics. In New York, for example, the state Department of Labor's elevator mechanic license costs $100, renews every two years and can be earned with a current CET, a registered apprenticeship certificate, or the NEIEP mechanic exam. Mechanics who did not qualify through CET must complete 16 hours of approved continuing education to renew. Check your own state's rules through the CareerOneStop License Finder.

Requirements differ by state. Check your state’s rules in the CareerOneStop License Finder (U.S. Department of Labor) before you enroll.

Electrical and electronic troubleshooting

Most breakdowns today trace back to controllers, sensors and wiring, so reading schematics and using a meter is daily work.

Mechanical aptitude

You align rails, adjust brakes and door operators and replace sheaves and cables to tight tolerances.

Safety discipline

You work in open shafts, at heights and near live voltage and moving cars, where one shortcut can be fatal.

Physical strength and comfort in tight spaces

Machine rooms, pits and car tops are cramped, and parts and tools are heavy.

Calm problem-solving with the public

Service calls often mean a stalled car with stressed passengers and building managers waiting for answers.

O*NET 31.0 rates these skills as most important for the occupation: critical thinking, active listening, reading comprehension, active learning, monitoring.

Training cost

$125–$270

Before financial aid

Time

4-5 years

Typical path

Median pay

$109,910

All US jobs: $50,980

Payback once qualified

Under 1 year

Pay above the all-jobs median vs. cost

Low: union route, with no tuition, because the IUEC apprenticeship has no out-of-pocket school cost; $25 EIAT testing fee + New York's $100 elevator mechanic license fee as an example of a state license = $125. High: non-union route through NAEC's CET education path, non-member application fee $170 (members $115) + the same $100 New York license fee = $270. The CET experience path ($785-$1,265) is open only to people who logged 10,000 hours by December 31, 2007. Not included: tuition for a non-union CET training program, other states' license fees, tools, boots and travel to job sites.

Rough guide only: ignores taxes, aid, interest and earnings given up during training. How we calculate it.

• Adjuster or mechanic-in-charge

  Experienced mechanics take further training to fine-tune new installations or lead a crew on a job site.

• Construction manager$114,990 median

  Field supervisors and project managers at elevator companies often come from the trade; a construction management degree helps for larger roles.

• Elevator inspector

  Inspectors typically need years of mechanic experience and an inspector certification, then work for a state, city or private inspection firm.

• Electrician$63,190 median

  Electrical skills transfer, but becoming a licensed electrician means a separate apprenticeship and state electrician exam.