Elevator installers and repairers, also known as elevator constructors and elevator mechanics, are responsible for the assembly, installation, maintenance, and repair of elevators, escalators, chairlifts, moving walkways, and similar equipment.
Installers place all the needed equipment, rails, wiring, motors, etc. Repairers test equipment and repair any faulty equipment. The most skilled installers and repairers can often work as adjusters, fine tuning working equipment in order to improve performance.
Most specialize in installation, repair, or maintenance, with each requiring different tools and slightly different skill sets. Elevator installers and repairers differ from other construction jobs in that the work is not seasonal. An elevator mechanic is in demand all year.
Elevator installers and repairers need to know about electricity, electronics, and hydraulics. Most are unionized and complete an apprenticeship program associated with a union. A High School diploma or a GED certificate is required for most programs, as well as courses in electricity, mathematics, science, and “shop” type classes. Be sure to look at the courses being offered in many locations.