What is an Elevator Constructor?
Elevator constructors install, modify, service and repair electric and hydraulic elevators, personnel and man-hoists, moving walkways, stagelifts, escalators and related equipment.
Elevator constructors may specialize in construction, maintenance or repair work.
- Find a Trade
- Find an Employer
- Apply to Become an Apprentice
- Find Support for Your Apprenticeship
In general, elevator constructors and their apprentices:
- read and interpret blueprints to determine the layout of cylinders, electrical connections and other system components
- do preparatory construction work including steel work, wiring and piping
- install doors and frames, guide rails, counterweights, and elevator, escalator and walkway chassis
- connect car frames to counterweights with cables and assemble elevator cars
- wire electronic control system equipment
- test and adjust equipment
- trouble-shoot when mechanical or electrical systems fail and make the necessary repairs
- carry out preventative maintenance programs to ensure public safety
Most elevator constructors in Alberta belong to the International Union of Elevator Constructors. Elevator constructors are employed by elevator manufacturers and independent firms that contract to install, service and maintain elevator equipment. They are generally employed in cities where multi-storey buildings are common.
Skills & Abilities
To be successful in their trade, elevator constructors need:
- mechanical aptitude
- the ability to work well in a small crew without direct supervision
- the ability to do detailed and precise work
- a willingness to keep up to date with innovations in the field
Apprenticeship Training
The term of apprenticeship for an elevator constructor is 4 years (four 12-month periods) including a minimum of 1800 hours of on-the-job training each year. Technical training provided by the Canadian Elevator Industry Educational Program (CEIEP) is the only training presently recognized.
- An applicant who previously completed courses of study or work experience related to the Elevator Constructor trade or holds a related journeyperson certificate and has the employer’s recommendation, may qualify for credit that could reduce the term of apprenticeship.
- A person who has previous training or work experience in the trade and wants to determine their level of skill and knowledge for entry or advanced standing in an apprenticeship program may complete the Prior Learning Assessment Online Application.
- A high school student can become an apprentice and gain credits toward apprenticeship training and a high school diploma at the same time under the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP).
Next Steps
To find answers to your questions and learn more about a career as an Elevator Constructor, contact the International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 122 or Local 130.
Contact Information
- P: 780-486-4832
Contact Information
- P: 403-243-1028
Sources
- Local 122: 780-486-4832