Elevator Mechanic - Job Description

Elevator Mechanic - Job DescriptionElevator Mechanic - Job DescriptionElevator mechanics install, maintain, or fix elevators, escalators, and moving walkways. Each type of work- installation, maintenance, and repair- requires a different skillset, and therefore those who work in this occupation usually specialize in one area. Elevator mechanics may also be called elevator installers, repairers, or constructors. Quick Facts Elevator mechanics earn amedian annual salaryof $79,480(2017).22,100 people work in this occupation (2016).Most jobs are full-time positions and include working overtime and being on-call in case of emergencies.Building equipment contractors employ the majority of elevator mechanics.There will be a high demand for workers during this decade, mostly attributable to construction of non-residential buildings. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment will grow much faster than the average for all occupations between 2016 and 2026. The government agency cl assifies it as a Bright Outlook occupation because of its excellentjob outlook. However, many people will apply for the available jobs making competition intense. What Does an Elevator Mechanic Do? These are some typical job duties specified in online ads for elevator mechanic positions found on Indeed.com Examine, maintain, and repair elevators as well as other conveyance typesDetermine the need for and perform major overhaul or replacement of defective equipmentPerform proper time keeping and accounting of materials and expenses for assigned projectsRead and interpret blueprintsFollow appropriate maintenance and service proceduresMeet and assist with third party municipal inspections The Downside of Working in This Occupation Elevator mechanics may have to be on-call to respond to emergencies and do repairs during the nightand on weekends and holidays.They spend time working in tight places. This makes it a less than ideal choice for those people who are uncomfortable in those situations.This work can be dangerous. Injuries caused by falls, burns, and muscle pulls are common. How to Become an Elevator Mechanic To prepare to work in this occupation, you will have to complete a four-year apprenticeship that consists of 144 hours of technical instruction and 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training. You will learn about electrical and electronic theory, mathematics, physics, safety, and how to read blueprints. Apprenticeships, which are usually sponsored by unions and contractors, are open to high school graduates or those who have earned equivalency diplomas. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and physically able to do the job. Before getting admitted to a program, you will have to pass math, reading, and mechanical aptitude tests. Taking math, shop, and mechanical drawing classes in high school will help prepare you. Elevator mechanics need alicenseto work in some states. To find out if your state requires one, see the Licensed Occupation To ol from CareerOneStop (Hint typing only the word elevator into thesearch packung will bring up all relevant job titles). Although it is not required, some people working in this field choose to become certified. Voluntary certification, available from trade associations like the National Association of Elevator Contractors, can make a job candidate more appealing to an employer since it demonstrates that he or she has met specific standards. What Soft Skills Will You Need? In addition to your training, a license, and voluntary certification, particular soft skills- personal attributes with which individuals are born or acquire through life experiences- are essential. Elevator mechanics need Physical Strength and StaminaAs an elevator mechanic you must be able to lift heavy equipment and do grueling work for extended time periods.Detail Oriented This ability will allow you to keep track of maintenance schedules.Troubleshooting You will have to determine the causes of problems.Cri tical Thinking Before you can fix some problems, you will have to identify and compare alternative solutions. What Will Employers Expect From You? In addition to skills and experience, what qualities do employers look for when they hire workers? Here are some requirements from actual job announcements found onIndeed.com Demonstrated customer service skills and the ability to remain calm when confronted with difficult situationsApplicant must be able to lift and move eighty pounds without assistanceMust be a strong team player and must be able to work independently and as a team memberMust be self-motivatedTakes direction in a positive mannerMust have demonstrated strong mechanical reasoning and comprehension skills plus hands-on mechanical aptitudeAble to follow instructions, make suggestions, and is willing to learn Is This Occupation a Good Fit for You? Do you have theinterests,personality type, andwork-related valuesthat make this career a good fit? A thoroughself assess mentwill let you find out. Here are the traits elevator mechanics should have Interests(Holland Code) RIC(Realistic, Investigative, Conventional)Personality schriftart(MBTI PersonalityTypes)ISTJ,ESTP, ISTP, ISFPWork-Related Values Support, Working Conditions, Independence Occupations With Related Activities and Tasks DescriptionMedian Annual Wage (2017)Minimum Required Education/TrainingElectricianInstalls wiring and other electrical components in residences and businesses.$54,110ApprenticeshipBoilermakerMakes, installs, and repairs boilers, vats, and tanks.$62,260Apprenticeship or trade schoolSheet Metal WorkerFabricates and installs products that are made of thin sheets of metal.$47,990Apprenticeship Sources Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor,Occupational Outlook Handbook Employment and Training Administration, U.S. Department of Labor,O*NETOnline(visited May 24, 2018).