Elevator constructors and mechanics assemble and install escalators and elevators. Their work may involve electric or hydraulic elevators, installations to carry freight or passengers, or moving walkways and similar types of equipment. They are employed by companies specializing in elevator construction and maintenance.
The job consists of setting the rails, building the cab form and installing elevator control mechanisms and other related equipment. You begin by studying the plans to determine the layout of the installation. You then install the hoisting machinery and equipment, counterweights, car platforms and the elevator or escalator chassis. The next step is to build the elevator car frame using hand and power tools. This, in turn, is attached by cable to the counterweight. Finally, you install the control system and all related wiring and test its operation. If you encounter any problems along the way, you must either repair or remove the defective parts.
Maintenance and repair work is a major part of your duties. You must keep an up-to-date log book detailing all repairs and checks done on an elevator so that anyone who works on that elevator knows what has been done and what problems may recur. Maintenance and repair assignments also require frequent contact with the public. Establishing a good professional relationship with your regular clients is very important.
Virtually all elevator mechanics are members of the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) which determines working conditions and salaries on behalf of its membership.
You must be able to read and understand blueprints and technical specifications. You should also be able to follow written instructions. Although a number of electronic devices help monitor speeds, weights or heights, you must still be capable of doing similar calculations on your own. In addition, you must keep the maintenance log books for each elevator absolutely clear and understandable.
Some of the greatest demands will be physical. The equipment is heavy and often difficult to handle and you must be physically fit in order to do the work. Once the elevator is set up and ready to function, you must carefully test its operation using various meters and gauges.
You may be on call and must be ready to respond at a moment's notice. This is what makes the job interesting. There is a lot of variety to the work. Every job is different even though some of it may only involve lubrication and greasing. Your services are essential to the functioning of offices and apartment buildings and you can take pleasure in being of service to the public.
You will enjoy this job if you are mechanically inclined and understand the way machines work. You will do well at it if you are methodical, industrious and willing to work hard for long periods of time. You must be extremely safety conscious both on the work site and with regard to the people using the elevators you service. You cannot take any risks or overlook any details. If a problem occurs, it must be dealt with as quickly as possible.
Mechanical skills are not enough. You must also be people-oriented. Good interpersonal and communication skills are important in maintaining relations with your fellow crew-members and with members of other trades. It is vital that you maintain good relationships with your clients since customer service is a critical part of the job.
There are specialized courses offered by the union and the elevator industry. This apprenticeship training usually lasts four to five years.