Skip to main content
About Elevators

Topic Hub

How to Become an Elevator Mechanic

In the United States, elevator and escalator installers and repairers usually enter through a paid apprenticeship after high school. The occupation combines mechanical, electrical and control work, and state or local licensing rules may also apply.

Career snapshot

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports these national figures for elevator and escalator installers and repairers:

  • Typical entry education: high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Typical training: a four-year apprenticeship, with paid work and technical instruction.
  • Median annual wage: $109,910 in May 2025.
  • Projected employment growth: 6% from 2025 to 2035, with about 1,900 openings a year on average.
  • Licensing: requirements vary by state and locality.

One major entry route: NEIEP

The National Elevator Industry Educational Program, or NEIEP, runs the apprenticeship recruitment process associated with the International Union of Elevator Constructors. Openings are local and time-limited. Use the current recruitment list to find a local that is accepting applications or see its tentative next opening.

Current minimum requirements

  • Be at least 17 to apply and at least 18 to be registered by the Local Joint Apprenticeship Committee.
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent at the time of hire.
  • Be authorized to work in the United States.

These are NEIEP’s national minimums. A recruitment notice can add instructions or deadlines, so read the posting for the local where you want to work.

Application sequence

  1. Choose an open local recruitment and submit the required education document with the application.
  2. Complete the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test and interview. NEIEP says the test covers arithmetic, reading comprehension, mechanical comprehension and general tool knowledge; it currently lists a $25 testing fee.
  3. Follow the local committee’s instructions for ranking and selection. Employers hire from the recruitment list in ranked order, so completing the test and interview does not guarantee placement.

Other apprenticeship routes

Registered Apprenticeship is broader than one program sponsor. Apprenticeship.gov describes the model as paid work experience with a mentor, progressive wage increases, classroom instruction and a portable credential. Employer and non-union routes can differ, so verify that a specific program is registered and read its own terms.

What the work includes

O*NET describes the occupation as installing, maintaining and repairing electric or hydraulic elevators, escalators and related equipment. Reported tasks include reading plans, assembling components, connecting wiring, testing equipment, finding faults and recording maintenance.

Mechanics may work with controllers, door operators, travelling cables and guide rails. Start with How Elevators Work for the system overview; the troubleshooting guide separates symptoms a passenger can report from diagnosis reserved for technicians.

The work combines physical activity with careful testing and recordkeeping. O*NET reports frequent exposure to hazardous conditions and equipment, work at height, cramped spaces and routine use of protective equipment.

Licensing and location

BLS reports that most states require elevator and escalator installers and repairers to be licensed. The responsible agency, exam, experience and renewal rules vary. Use Elevator Codes and Regulations to identify the regulator, then confirm the current requirements where you plan to work.

Pay during apprenticeship

The $109,910 median covers the whole occupation; it is not an apprentice wage. BLS says apprentice starting pay is usually about 50% of what fully trained workers make, with increases during the apprenticeship. Actual rates depend on the program, employer, agreement and location.

Sources

Related Topics