Introduction of Elevator Mechanic

Elevator Mechanics, who come to mind solely in the event of an elevator malfunction, are among the unsung heroes who make life easier and safer in all public and private settings.

Similar Job Titles

• Elevator Adjuster
• Elevator Constructor
• Elevator Mechanic
• Elevator Repair and Maintenance Technician
• Elevator Service Mechanic
• Elevator Service Technician
• Elevator Serviceman
• Elevator Technician
• Elevator Troubleshooter
• Lift Engineer
• Lift Technicians

Typical Job Responsibilities

What do Elevator Mechanics do?

An Elevator Mechanic would typically need to:

• Construct, install, maintain, repair, and replace freight and passenger lifts, escalators, moving walkways, and dumbwaiters.
• Do routine inspections of electrical equipment, gears, hydraulics, drive systems, motors, overload detection devices, brakes, doors, and locks.
• Analyze and interpret blueprints to establish the layout of system components and choose the equipment required for installation or repair.
• Identify flaws and make modest repairs; make recommendations and plans for more complicated fixes.
• Attend to after-hours emergency breakdown calls; do repairs or isolate problems until a more thorough service is provided.
• Commission and fit-out lifts, lift gear, lift wells, and related equipment; oil and grease moving parts
• Test freshly installed equipment with meters and gauges to confirm it meets specifications and to show its operation to clients.
• Examine and evaluate existing lift equipment to ensure compliance with current health and safety regulations, directions, and building requirements.
• Recommend modifications or new installations, if necessary; produce appropriate job quotes
• Employ hoists, ladders, and hand/power tools to dismantle elevators and remove or replace damaged parts; keep equipment clean.
• Replace or replace lift interiors, including flooring, panel displays, communication systems, buttons, lighting, and finish.
• Maintain all paper and computerized work records; analyze call-out patterns to detect and isolate flaws and predict future problems
• Generate inspection and risk assessment reports, as well as other pertinent data for insurance and legal purposes.

Standard Work Environment

The working circumstances of Lift Mechanics are determined by the type of building that houses the lift equipment. In large cities, where multi-story structures are common, the work is often done indoors. In lift shafts, you can work at heights.

Along with the normal oil, grease, grime, and heat or cold, older systems may also have confined spaces. Although installation and major repairs necessitate coordination, minor difficulties are easily resolved alone.

Daily travel to multiple customer locations is expected. Elevator Mechanics wear protective equipment like hard hats, harnesses, and safety glasses to decrease the danger of injury.

Work Schedule

Most Elevator Mechanics work full-time, 40 hours a week. Overtime is prevalent, and most specialists operate on a call-out schedule 24/7/365 to handle emergency repairs or meet building deadlines.

Employers

Seeking a new job may seem difficult. Elevator Mechanics can improve their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting firms directly, using job search platforms, attending job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Elevator Mechanics are generally employed by:

• Elevator Manufacturers
• Elevator Installation & Maintenance Companies
• Specialist Elevator Maintenance Companies
• Building Services Companies
• Local Authorities
• Hospitals
• Educational Institutions
• Mega Businesses
• Hotels
• High-Rise Apartment Buildings
• Tall Condominiums & Resort Buildings

Unions / Professional Organizations

Professional associations and organizations, such as The National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities International, are essential for Elevator Mechanics interested in pursuing professional development or interacting with like-minded experts in their business or career. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while strengthening your credentials and qualifications. Elevator Mechanics typically belong to a local/national union.

Workplace Challenges

• Injuries from falls burn from electric shocks, and muscle strains from lifting and carrying heavy equipment
• Exhaustion due to physically demanding work that requires sitting or standing for extended periods
• Working in cramped, dusty, dirty, greasy areas inside crawl spaces and machine rooms in extreme temperatures
• Likely to work at heights in elevator shafts

Suggested Work Experience

A two- to four-year apprenticeship program provided by a union, industry group, or business is the initial step toward a career as an Elevator Mechanic. Ideally, the apprentice will finish a well-balanced blend of technical teaching and paid on-the-job training.

Trainees learn about safety, blueprint reading, mathematics, applied physics, lift and escalator parts, electrical and digital theory, and electronics. Applicants who have verified relevant experience and the ability to demonstrate their skills may be eligible for a shorter apprenticeship.

Most college programs developed specifically for aspiring lift mechanics will accept applicants’ apprenticeship credits toward their associate degree. Furthermore, the average employer likes candidates who are union members. To join a union, you must first complete an approved apprenticeship program and then pass a standardized educational program for the elevator sector.

An intermediate apprenticeship for a stairlift, platform/elevator lift, service lift/elevator electromechanical, or an advanced apprenticeship for a lift/elevator and escalator mechanic will also do.

The qualifications vary by location, but applicants must be at least 18 years old, have high school graduation, be physically fit for the apprenticeship, and pass basic math, reading, and mechanical aptitude tests.

Note that applicants with qualifying qualifications can apply directly to companies if they have job experience in electrical, electro-mechanical, or building services engineering. Many lift mechanics have previously worked as maintenance technicians or electricians.

To demonstrate your devotion to course providers and future employers, read about the profession and interview/job shadow professionals in lift installation and repair.

Recommended Qualifications

A high school diploma or GED (General Educational Development) is the most frequent academic qualification among Lift Mechanics. Those with an associate degree in electrical engineering technology from a community college or vocational school are more likely to be employed.

Several universities offer diplomas in maintenance engineering technology or building services engineering, as well as a higher national certificate in lift engineering, which may help you stand out among your colleagues in the labor market.

Companies prefer applicants who are completely informed of the regulatory requirements and industry rules surrounding health and safety and inspections. Sufficient computer literacy is necessary to ensure proper writing and maintenance of records and reports. If your job requires you to be a union member, you may need to pass a standardized elevator industry educational program assessment.

Math, mechanical drawing, computer studies, and physics courses in high school are beneficial.

Certifications, Licenses, and Registration

In general, certification is not required, although it is suggested as proof of knowledge and expertise. Online courses for government-approved certificates such as Certified Lift Technician (CET), Certified Accessibility and Private Residential Lift Technicians (CAT), and Qualified Elevator Inspectors are available. Education, proof of training and past experience, and an actual examination are all prerequisites.

Such qualifications can help you stand out in a competitive employment market, boost your prospects of progression, and enable you to work independently as a consultant.

Effective certification programs incorporate a Code of Ethics to protect the public good.

On the other hand, Elevator Mechanics must receive a license in order to execute their duties. Normally, licensure includes an application, processing fees, an examination, and applicable education and experience. Apprentices who successfully finish their training are typically eligible for a license. Consult with local or national lift industry organizations to see whether you will need a license.

You may also need a valid driver’s license.

Projected Career Map

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional certifications drive the career advancement of Lift Mechanics in both the public and commercial sectors. You could advance to supervisory management, technical sales, or engineering design.

Your hard work can pay off in various areas, such as manufacturing, engineering construction, or safety inspection, as a full-time employee or as a freelance contractor.

Your career advancement may be marked by titles such as Foreman, Superintendent, Mechanic-In-Charge, Adjuster, Supervisor, or Elevator Inspector, depending on your area of expertise.

Job Prospects

Applicants with post-secondary education in electronics and relevant work experience will have the best job opportunities.

Beneficial Professional Development

Continued Professional Development (CPD) will assist an active Lift Mechanic in developing personal skills and competency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning.

Take advantage of company-sponsored academic programs to improve your skills. Technology will continue to change; stay current on current systems. CPD will also assist with the regular renewal of coveted qualifications and licenses.

Conclusion of Elevator Mechanic

The job will not bring you fame or glory; nevertheless, when you consider that skilled Lift Mechanics enable the sick, disabled, fatigued, and regular joes to reach their objectives and dreams, you will realize that this career makes a significant difference where it matters.

Advice from the Wise

“You must be prepared to labor with your hands.” You should not be terrified of heights. If you slumber when on the top of a lift, you’re done. A finger or a thumb can be lost. You must be prepared for anything.”

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