How To Become An Elevator Technician In South Africa

Elevator technicians install and repair escalators, chairlifts, elevators, and other electronic transport equipment.

Should I Become an Elevator Technician?

Degree LevelHigh school diploma or equivalent to begin apprenticeship
Degree Field(s)None
License/CertificationLicensing required in some states; voluntary certification available
Experience5-year apprenticeship program
Key SkillsPhysical strength and stamina; strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills; attention to detail; ability to use testing equipment and tools; ability to read blueprints
Mean Annual Salary (2019)*$83,250 (for elevator and escalator installers and repairers)

Below are steps to Become An Elevator Technician In South Africa

Complete an Apprenticeship

Generally, the first step to becoming an elevator technician is to complete a five-year apprenticeship program. Apprenticeships provide a mixture of classroom lessons and on-the-job training. A high school diploma or the equivalent typically is needed to begin an apprenticeship program.

Apprentices, who are typically compensated for on-the-job training, are paired up with experienced workers so they can watch and learn the trade before performing the work themselves.

Obtain Necessary Licensure

Several states require elevator technicians to complete a licensing exam to ensure public safety. Exams are usually in a written format and test an elevator technician’s knowledge of installation procedures, part specifications, and technical limitations. Additional licensure requirements might include paying a fee and meeting educational or experience standards.

Consider Certification

Employers might look for elevator technicians with credentials that validate their proficiency and skills. For this reason, voluntary certification might be helpful when seeking employment.

The National Association of Elevator Contractors (or NAEC) offers voluntary certifications, such as Certified Elevator Technician (or CET) and Certified Accessibility and Private Residence Lift Technician (or CAT).

How long does it take to become an elevator technician In South Africa?

The programs usually take four to five years to complete and provide classroom instruction and paid on-the-job training. Classroom instruction includes blueprint reading, mathematics, safety procedures, physics applications, and electrical and electronic theory.

Do you need a degree to be an elevator technician?

Employment requirements

Completion of a four- to five-year apprenticeship program or A combination of over four years of work experience in the trade and some high school, college or industry courses in elevator construction or repair is usually required to be eligible for trade certification.

How much does a elevator tech make In South Africa ?

Salary: In a heavily unionized trade, salaries are relatively standard countrywide. During the apprenticeship term, elevator mechanics typically earn $18 to $27 per hour. Salaries increase sharply once students graduate to a journeyman/mechanic designation.

Is it hard to become an elevator technician?

Getting in can be difficult. First is the application, then a mechanical aptitude exam. Next is the interview, and they can be very rare; sometimes years go between interviews. I can only speak from my experience, but I had to call the union to see if they were interviewing.

What does an elevator technician do In South Africa ?

Lift mechanics assemble, install, adjust, maintain and repair electric and hydraulic freight and passenger lifts and escalators. An experienced lift mechanic is able to perform more complex work functions and tasks, such as adjusting and tuning lifts to make sure they work safely and efficiently.

How many elevator technicians died a year?

Incidents involving elevators and escalators kill about 30 and seriously injure about 17,000 people each year in the United States, according to data provided by the South Africa . Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Is elevator mechanic in demand?

The elevator industry is booming. Employment of elevator mechanics was estimated at 22,100 in 2016, and is projected to grow 12 percent by 2026. New installation and maintenance of elevators and escalators in stores and residential and commercial buildings is expected to drive demand for workers.