Elevator Installer

Your Fit

Income

$107K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

1.5%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is an Elevator Installer?

An Elevator Installer is a skilled technician responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other lift systems. This occupation involves ensuring that these systems are safe, reliable, and compliant with regulations.

Sample job titles:

Elevator Mechanic, Elevator Service Mechanic, Elevator Service Technician (Elevator Service Tech), Elevator Technician (Elevator Tech)

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Elevator Installer.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does an Elevator Installer earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$55K per year	$77K per year	$107K per year	$132K per year	$149K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $57K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does an Elevator Installer do?

Work environment

Elevator Installers work in various settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The job involves working in confined spaces, at heights, and often in construction environments. It requires a good understanding of mechanical and electrical systems and adherence to strict safety guidelines.

Quick task list

Installs, maintains, and repairs elevator systems.
Reads and interprets blueprints and electrical schematics.
Tests newly installed equipment to ensure it meets specifications.
Complies with safety standards and building codes.
Conducts routine maintenance and emergency repairs.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Residential Elevator Installation: Specializing in elevator systems in private homes and small buildings.
Commercial Elevator Installation: Working on larger elevator systems in office buildings, hotels, and other commercial properties.
Escalator and Moving Walkway Installation: Focusing on the installation and maintenance of escalators and moving walkways.
Modernization and Retrofitting: Specializing in updating and modernizing older elevator systems.

Description

Elevator Installers play a critical role in the safety and functionality of building transportation systems. They must have a strong understanding of both mechanical and electrical systems, as well as the ability to work with complex machinery. Precision and attention to detail are crucial, as is the ability to diagnose and resolve problems effectively. Installers must also stay up-to-date with evolving technology and safety standards in the industry.

This occupation requires physical stamina and dexterity, as it involves lifting heavy equipment and working in awkward positions or tight spaces. Strong communication skills are important for coordinating with construction teams, other technicians, and clients. Elevator Installers often work in teams but also need the ability to work independently.

Career advancement opportunities are available, with possibilities to move into supervisory roles, specialized technical work, or independent contracting. Continuous professional development is important, including staying abreast of new technologies and safety regulations in the field.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The technical challenge of working with complex machinery.
The satisfaction of ensuring public safety through reliable elevator installations and maintenance.
Opportunities for varied work and problem-solving in different environments.

You might make a good Elevator Installer if you are...

Mechanically inclined and enjoy working with your hands.
Comfortable working in confined spaces and at heights.
Detail-oriented, with strong problem-solving skills.
Interested in a blend of physical and technical work.
Committed to safety and adherence to regulations.

Pros:

High demand for skilled technicians in the field.
Good earning potential and benefits, particularly after completing an apprenticeship.
Opportunities for continuous learning and working with advanced technology.

Cons:

Physically demanding work with potential safety risks.
Sometimes requires working in uncomfortable or confined spaces.
Can involve irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, especially for repair work.

How to become an Elevator Installer

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required to enter this field. Most Elevator Installers complete an apprenticeship program, which can last 4-5 years, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Some may also attend technical schools to learn basic electrical and mechanical skills.

High school preparation

Courses:

Shop classes or vocational training in mechanics and electronics.
Mathematics for understanding technical schematics and measurements.
Physics to understand the principles of machinery and electronics.
Technical drawing or CAD classes for blueprint reading.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in robotics clubs or mechanical hobby groups.
Engaging in sports or physical fitness activities to build strength and endurance.
Volunteering in community service projects that involve technical or construction skills.

Preparation after high school

Pursuing a vocational or technical program in electrical or mechanical systems.
Applying for apprenticeship programs with elevator installation or service companies.
Attaining certifications related to electrical and mechanical safety and operation.

More resources

National Association of Elevator Contractors (NAEC) - Offers educational resources and certification information for elevator technicians.
International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) - Provides information on apprenticeship and training programs.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Offers safety guidelines and resources related to elevator installation and maintenance.
National Elevator Industry Educational Program (NEIEP) - Provides education and training for elevator installers and repairers.

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