The Role of an Elevator Technician

The role of an elevator technician is vital to keeping an elevator and its systems functioning safely. If you are interested in seeking elevator technician services but are unsure what goes on, here is a complete summary of the job of an elevator technician.  

What is an Elevator Technician?

An elevator technician/mechanic installs, maintains, and repairs elevators, escalators, and other lift systems. They ensure that elevators are running safely, smoothly, and efficiently.

Education & Skills Required

Elevator technicians need to have a high school diploma or a GED certificate. Then, most elevator companies will require apprenticeship programs so they can learn relevant trade skills. During apprenticeships, aspiring technicians learn technical instruction and on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced elevator mechanics.

They need to possess the following skills: 

• Engineering skills to install equipment and troubleshoot issues
• Mechanical skills to work with power tools and electrical equipment
• Physical strength & stamina
• Problem-solving when building new equipment or diagnosing current issues
• Critical thinking for reading blueprints & taking measurements

The Working Environment

Elevator technicians often work in high-rise buildings, commercial areas, and sometimes residential homes. These employees might be required to climb heights to inspect or service elevators and crawl into tight spaces for maintenance checkups. Elevator mechanics usually work around 40 hours a week and can provide services after hours if they are needed (specifically in emergencies.) 

Job Tasks of an Elevator Mechanic

Elevator technicians perform the following tasks throughout their day

• Inspect and diagnose issues in elevators and control systems
• Repair and replace defective parts
• Install new elevator systems
• Perform emergency repairs 
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and structural problems
• Check for elevator compliance to meet state requirements 
• Do periodic maintenance checks like lubrication of moving parts, cleaning machinery, and testing other systems
• Maintain records of repairs completed 

Technician Process of an Elevator Inspection

A routine inspection for elevators is required on an annual basis at a minimum. When an elevator technician conducts a routine inspection, they will check on specific areas. 

First, a technician will check the elevator’s cab interior to ensure that the elevator doors can open and close properly and that there is no damage on the inside of the cab. Then, they will conduct an exterior cab check where the doors are checked again. After this, the top of the elevator, pit, and machine room will be inspected for possible destruction. Technicians will also check the machine room which controls the movement of the elevator.  

Buckley Elevator Technicians are Leaders in the Business

At Buckley Elevator, our team of mechanics delivers top-notch service, customer support, and follow-ups. We provide elevator maintenance, elevator repair, elevator installation, elevator modernization, elevator cleaning, site evaluation, emergency repair, and hydraulic cylinder and piston replacement. Contact us for your next elevator service project.