Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers

Assemble, install, repair, or maintain electric or hydraulic freight or passenger elevators, escalators, or dumbwaiters.

SOC: 47-4021.00

Common Job Titles

Elevator MechanicElevator Service MechanicElevator Service Technician (Elevator Service Tech)Elevator Technician (Elevator Tech)

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • Hands-onPerform preventive and corrective maintenance on electric and hydraulic elevator systems following safety protocols and manufacturer specifications in commercial and residential buildings.
  • KnowledgeDiagnose mechanical, electrical, and electronic malfunctions in elevator and escalator systems using diagnostic equipment including multimeters, oscilloscopes, and programmable logic controllers.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate elevator system performance and compliance with safety standards through systematic inspection and testing of mechanical and electronic components.
  • Hands-onOperate specialized testing and calibration equipment including cable tensionmeters, hydraulic pressure gauges, and tachometers to verify system integrity.
  • MindsetIntegrate safety-first practices with customer service requirements when performing maintenance in occupied buildings with minimal disruption.
  • Hands-onCoordinate rigging and hoisting operations for heavy components using hoists, slings, and scaffolding while working at heights with safety harnesses.
  • Hands-onAssemble elevator components including cables, pulleys, motors, and control systems during new installations in construction environments adhering to building codes.
  • KnowledgeInterpret technical schematics, blueprints, and wiring diagrams to plan installation sequences and troubleshoot system failures independently.
  • Hands-onExecute welding, cutting, and fabrication operations using TIG, arc welders, and cutting torches to repair structural and mechanical components.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze hydraulic and electrical control system parameters to identify performance deviations and determine appropriate corrective actions.
  • KnowledgeApply knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and control system principles to configure and program programmable logic controllers for optimal system operation.
  • MindsetParticipate in continuous professional development and technical training to maintain currency with evolving elevator technologies and safety regulations.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

23,340

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$54,720
10% of workers earn the following or more$149,250
Workers on average earn$104,860

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Mechanical4.3/5
  • Customer and Personal Service3.8/5
  • Building and Construction3.6/5
  • Public Safety and Security3.6/5
  • Computers and Electronics3.4/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft Word

Technology Skills

Computerized maintenance management system CMMSElevator Controls INTERACTScheduling softwareTroubleshooting softwareWORLD Electronics Freedomware

Tools & Equipment

Adjustable wrenchesAmmetersAmp metersCable tensionmetersCapacity testersCleaning scrapersCommutator stonesConduit benders