If you’ve ever been curious about a career in the elevator industry, there’s no better place to start than becoming an Elevator Apprentice with the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC). This career path offers a balanced blend of hands-on work, technical skill development, and good compensation. Here’s a comprehensive overview of how you can begin your journey to becoming an Elevator Mechanic.

Recruitment and Application Process

The path to becoming an Elevator Mechanic starts with the recruitment process administered through the National Elevator Industry Educational Program (NEIEP). Every IUEC Local holds recruitment drives when workers are needed, typically every two years. Keeping an eye on these opportunities is important and you can track all the current opportunities in the Apprenticeship Opportunities section on the NEIEP website.

Before applying, it’s important to make sure you meet the minimum requirements. Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent (GED), must be authorized to work in the United States, and must be at least 17 years old at the time of application (18 years old to be registered by the Local Joint Apprenticeship Committee).

Applying is straightforward and can be done on the NEIEP website. Head to the Apprenticeship Opportunities page and choose the recruitment that suits you best. Incomplete applications will not be considered so make sure you have a copy of your high school diploma or equivalent credential. Each recruitment has its own application deadline, which can be found on the respective recruitment advertisements.

Selection Process and Preparation

After submitting your application, there are two further steps to be completed: passing the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test (EIAT) and successfully passing the interview stage.

1. Elevator Industry Aptitude Test (EIAT)

The EIAT evaluates your skills in reading comprehension, mechanical comprehension, basic arithmetic, and general tool knowledge. Study materials are available on the NEIEP website and the test is scored on a pass/fail basis, with a minimum passing score of 70%.

2. Interview

Candidates who successfully pass the EIAT will be invited for an interview conducted by two members of the Joint Apprenticeship Committee (JAC), one from the IUEC and one from the employers’ side. During the interview, candidates will be judged on their ability to answer a standardized set of questions designed to allow candidates to highlight their work experience and problem-solving skills. Like the EIAT, a score of 70% is required to make it onto the hiring list.

Standing out during the interview can be important. It’s recommended that candidates highlight any relevant training, such as trade school experience or mechanical knowledge. Additionally, certifications such as OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 are beneficial. Underscore your ability to work as part of a team, your willingness to learn, and any other relevant hands-on projects in which you’ve been involved.

The duration of any recruitment window depends on the number of positions available and the dates will be clearly posted along with the announcement on the NEIEP website. Once you get onto the hiring list, your rank is valid for two years or until the entire list is exhausted.

Once hired, Elevator Apprentices must complete roughly 600 hours of classroom instruction and 8,000 hours of on-the-job training over 4 to 5 years to be eligible to sit for the Mechanic Exam.

Compensation and Career Advancement

Pay rates for Elevator Apprentices and Mechanics can vary depending on the location and the specific work being carried out. Apprentices earn a percentage of the Mechanic’s rate, with that percentage increasing as they progress through their apprenticeship.

The apprenticeship is designed to pair Elevator Apprentices with experienced Elevator Mechanics both in the classroom at NEIEP and out in the field. If you’re new to the trade, don’t worry, as no specific background is required, making NEIEP’s apprenticeship extremely accessible. Information about open and upcoming recruitments, as well as how to apply, can always be found on the NEIEP website.

Special Considerations for Veterans 

The IUEC proudly partners with Helmets to Hardhats, a fantastic program that connects veterans and transitioning military personnel with career opportunities across different construction industries. If this applies to you or if you simply want to learn more about this initiative, be sure to check out the Helmet to Hardhats website.

Elevate Your Career Prospects

Embarking on a career as an Elevator Mechanic with the IUEC offers a promising future to those looking for stability and growth opportunities. If you’re ready to take the first step, explore the opportunities available through NEIEP today and begin your application process.