Elevator Jobs

Elevator installers and repairers assemble, install, and maintain elevators, escalators, and related equipment in buildings, supporting modern infrastructure like skyscrapers and accessibility features. According to the most recent BLS data from May 2024, the median annual wage is $106,580, or $51.24 per hour, significantly higher than the median for all occupations. Employment stands at approximately 24,200 workers, with a projected job growth of 5% from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, creating about 2,000 openings annually due to replacements and new demand.

The occupation requires a high school diploma and typically entry through paid multi-year apprenticeships combining on-the-job training and classroom instruction, with no formal education beyond that needed. Common certifications and licenses include those from the National Elevator Industry Educational Program (NEIEP) for mechanic training, state-specific elevator contractor or mechanic licenses issued by state elevator boards (e.g., California Division of Occupational Safety and Health), and OSHA safety certifications for construction work. Union membership through the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) often provides structured apprenticeship paths and licensing reciprocity.