How to Become an Elevator Mechanic: Complete 2025 Guide
Have you decided to pursue a career path in the elevator industry? Elevator mechanics are entrusted with a lot of responsibility, ensuring that millions of people make it safely to their floors every day.
To become an elevator mechanic, you must:
- Complete a 4-year apprenticeship with the National Elevator Industry Education Program (NEIEP).
- Pass the EIAT (Elevator Industry Aptitude Test), which requires focused preparation and practice.
See the free EIAT Practice Test
-Or scroll down for the information required to become an elevator mechanic-
This article explores the steps required to become an elevator mechanic, outlines the day‑to‑day responsibilities of the role, and examines the process you need to go through to become a licensed professional. Let's get started.
What Does an Elevator Apprentice Do?
An elevator mechanic, also known as an elevator technician, ensures safe and reliable operation of elevators, escalators, and moving walkways by installing, maintaining, and repairing these critical transportation systems.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Install and assemble elevators, escalators, and moving walkways.
- Maintain and inspect equipment regularly to ensure operational safety and compliance.
- Diagnose mechanical and electrical malfunctions and repair broken or faulty components.
Detailed Tasks:
- Connect, wire, and rewire electrical units.
- Interpret technical blueprints and machinery specifications.
- Test safety systems, such as braking mechanisms, to uphold regulatory standards.
- Maintain detailed records of inspection outcomes and repairs.
- Adapt to various elevator technologies, including hydraulic and traction-driven systems.
Next, we're gonna talk about how to become an elevator mechanic, education, and experience requirements.
4 Steps for Landing an Elevator Mechanic Apprenticeship in 2025
Becoming an Elevator Mechanic Step #1 – Preliminary Conditions
The NEIEP Apprenticeship Standards require applicants for an elevator apprenticeship to meet the following qualifications:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a high‑school diploma or GED.
- Be authorized to work in the U.S.
- Provide these documents:
- Proof of diploma or GED test scores
- DD‑214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) for veterans
- Pass a drug screening.
Note: The drug screening and document verification occur after you’re matched with an employer but before your first day of apprenticeship.
Becoming an Elevator Mechanic Step #2 – Apply to an Apprenticeship
To begin your journey with NEIEP, follow these steps:
- Visit NEIEP’s Career Page.
Browse current and upcoming local contractor recruitments for elevator mechanic apprenticeships. - Submit your application.
You’ll be redirected to iCIMS (Applicant Tracking System, ATS) to enter your information. - Provide your details and credentials.
Personal information (name, address, contact)
High school diploma or GED equivalent - Receive your EIAT appointment.
If your application is complete, NEIEP will schedule your Elevator Industry Aptitude Test and notify you of the date and time.
Note for New York applicants:
Apprenticeship applications in New York are submitted through a separate state‑specific system.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Frequently check the NEIEP career page for new recruitment opportunities, as positions open regularly.
- Submit your apprenticeship application as soon as it opens. Popular locations like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles often have a set limit on applicants, and applications close quickly once this limit is reached. For instance, in December 2021, the NY IUEC Local 1 had 1,500 available slots filled in just 4 days.
- Gather all necessary documents and information beforehand. Ensure all documents are in English and submitted in .doc, .pdf, or .jpeg formats only.
- Prepare your resume ahead of time to streamline the application process. You can upload this resume directly to the application portal, allowing for quick autofill of your information.
Your resume should ideally include: - Personal information (required)
- Last 4 digits of your Social Security Number (required)
- Professional licenses, registrations, and certifications
- Educational details such as your high school diploma
- Up to three professional references (at least one former supervisor)
- Employment history
Becoming an Elevator Mechanic Step #3 – Complete the EIAT Test
If you have passed the initial application stage, you will be contacted via email through the iCIMS system by your Local Area Coordinator inviting you to take the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test (EIAT).
The EIAT assesses specific knowledge areas that indicate your potential to acquire the mechanical skills necessary for elevator technicians.
The EIAT test covers 3 sections:
- Basic Numeracy (Math)
- Verbal Reasoning
- Mechanical Aptitude
In addition, a Tool Assessment will follow the EIAT, in which you will be required to identify common working tools, as well as show basic measurement reading skills.
To pass the EIAT, you will need to get a minimum score of 70 points. However, it is recommended to score as high as you can, as applicants are divided into tiers based on their test performance, and candidates with higher EIAT scores will have precedence.
Prepare for the EIAT and Your Interviews
Passing the EIAT test is just the first step. To truly secure your apprenticeship, you need to excel in the interview process too.
Our JobTestPrep pack helps you master mechanical, reading, and math skills for the test, as well as sharpen your interview performance.
Get ready for all aspects of the apprenticeship evaluation process and give yourself the best chance of success!"
Take the free EIAT Practice Test to begin!
See What People Say About Our Prep Pack
Becoming an Elevator Mechanic Step #4 – Pass an Interview
If you have passed the 70% score threshold on your Elevator Aptitude Test, you will be scheduled for an interview.
The interview will take 15-20 minutes and will be conducted by two interviewers – one from your prospective employer and one from the IUEC.
As per NEIEP standards, all candidates are asked the exact same questions.
The NEIEP Apprenticeship
During the NEIEP apprenticeship program, you will go through 8,000 hours of on-the-job learning (OJL) and 576 hours of Related Instruction (additional theoretical and practical courses).
On-the-Job Learning (OJL)
The on-the-job training constitutes most of the apprenticeship’s time and content.
To complete the apprenticeship, you need to complete at least 2,000 hours of on-the-job training per year to a total of 8,000 hours.
During the OJL you will learn and practice things like:
- Construction safety
- Blueprint Interpretation
- Rigging & hoisting
- Machine room installation
For a complete list of the mechanical knowledge and other topics covered on the apprenticeship, you may refer to the Elevator Constructor Industry Training Criteria (Section B).
During your apprentice training, you’ll learn from:
- Qualified Elevator Inspectors: they’ll teach you safety standards, load‑testing methods, and code‑compliance procedures.
- Experienced Elevator Mechanics: they’ll mentor you in assembling and adjusting elevator cars, running electrical wiring, and troubleshooting electrical equipment.
- Elevator Contractors: they’ll show you project planning, regulatory compliance, and how to manage installations and maintenance contracts.
Elevator Mechanic School - Related Instruction
According to the NEIEP, the purpose of Related Instruction is to “teach apprentices those applied academics critical to job performance that are not adequately or effectively taught on the job.”
To complete the apprenticeship, you need to complete at least 144 hours of Related Instruction elevator mechanic training per year to a total of 576 hours.
Related Instruction covers areas such as:
- Electrical theory
- Solid-state
- Power & logic
- Hydraulic theory
For a complete list of Related Instruction topics, you may refer to the Elevator Constructor Industry Training Criteria (Section A).
Elevator Apprenticeship Probationary Period
As soon as you land an elevator mechanic apprenticeship, you will start a 1-year probationary period.
After the first six months of this period, you will be eligible for a wage increase.
How Much Do Elevator Apprentices Make?
The IUEC defines a progressively increasing pay scale for apprentices as follows:
- Probationary Apprentice (0-6 months) – 50% of an elevator mechanic's salary.
- First-Year Apprentice (7-12 months) – 55% of an elevator mechanic's salary rate.
- Second-Year Apprentice (1-2 years) – 65% of a mechanic’s rate + fringe benefits.
- Third-Year Apprentice (2-3 years) – 70% of a mechanic’s rate + fringe benefits.
- Fourth-Year Apprentice (3-4 years) – 80% of a mechanic’s rate + fringe benefits.
Note that mechanic rates vary between states. To find your estimated salary during the apprenticeship, get a free Elevator Apprentice Salary by State PDF.
Elevator Mechanics Work Environment
Hours & Availability
- Full‑Time Position
- On‑Call Duty
– Evenings and weekends for emergency repairs – Ensures systems stay safe and operational
Key Responsibilities
- Install & Maintain Machinery
– Elevators, escalators, and moving walkways in offices and public buildings - Assemble, Repair & Replace
– Heavy equipment components - Service in Cramped Spaces
– Tight or high‑up areas when accessing machinery - Safety Compliance
– Follow strict rules to protect yourself and building occupants
When Do I Get Fringe Benefits?
As an elevator apprentice, you will begin getting the fringe benefits covered in the collective bargaining agreement upon completion of the first 2,000 hours of the apprenticeship (usually 1 year). Hours of the probationary period are included in this calculation.
The Elevator Constructor Mechanic Exam
The completion of the elevator technician apprenticeship and certification as an elevator mechanic requires the completion of a Mechanic Exam conducted by the IUEC.
This test is not the same as the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test required to start an elevator technician apprenticeship.
FAQs
Here are some important skills that a good elevator mechanic should have:
- Engineering Knowledge
A strong grasp of mechanical and electrical engineering principles—particularly hydraulics and traction systems—enables mechanics to install, adjust, and troubleshoot elevator components effectively. - Mechanical Aptitude
Comfort with power tools, hand tools, and electrical testing equipment is essential for assembling, repairing, and maintaining complex machinery. - Physical Strength & Stamina
Handling heavy parts, working in confined elevator shafts, and climbing ladders is very physically demanding and requires both endurance and the ability to perform strenuous tasks safely. - Problem-Solving Skills and Ability
From diagnosing atypical malfunctions to optimizing system performance, mechanics rely on creative and systematic approaches to identify issues and implement effective solutions. - Critical Thinking & Blueprint Reading
Measuring shaft dimensions, interpreting blueprints, and planning the correct installation sequence require attention to detail and the capacity to anticipate potential challenges.
On the job as an elevator technician, you’ll get hands‑on practice with:
- Elevator Cars
Assembling the car frame, installing door operators, aligning guide rails, and adjusting leveling systems for smooth rides. - Electrical Wiring
Running, splicing and terminating wire for motors, controls, lighting and safety circuits—making sure every connection meets code. - Electrical Equipment
Bench‑testing and calibrating control panels, relays, contactors, transformers, variable‑frequency drives, and safety switches. - Power Tools
Using drills, impact drivers, grinders, torque wrenches and hydraulic jacks to mount rails, secure brackets, cut conduits, and lift heavy parts. - Similar Equipment
Operating hoists or chain falls to maneuver cars and counterweights, using multimeters/megohmmeters for diagnostics, specialized gauges for ride‑quality checks, and welding gear for frame repairs.
The elevator mechanics apprenticeship program normally takes 4 years to complete.
During the apprenticeship, future elevator technicians learn the mechanical skills and other unique skills that are needed to work as elevator installers.
Elevator mechanic apprentices generally work the same hours as elevator mechanics – 40 hours a week.
However, attendance in instruction classes where you learn mechanical skills and other vital knowledge will take precedence over an elevator technician apprentice’s working hours.
Elevator mechanics are generally certified through the apprenticeship program of the IUEC (International Union of Elevator Constructors).
To complete the elevator mechanic apprenticeship, you must complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related instruction.
Here you will learn the mechanical skills that elevator contractors look for in their future elevator installers.
To become an elevator mechanic, you'll need:
- Mechanical skills for safe repair and maintenance of elevators
- A high school diploma or equivalent
The job involves:
- Physical demands (good fitness helps, though it's not officially tested)
- Using tools (experience is helpful, but training is provided during apprenticeship)
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