How to hire an elevator mechanic apprentice

How to hire an elevator mechanic apprentice, step by step

Here's a step-by-step elevator mechanic apprentice hiring guide:

• Step 1: Identify your hiring needs
• Step 2: Create an ideal candidate profile
• Step 3: Make a budget
• Step 4: Write an elevator mechanic apprentice job description
• Step 5: Post your job
• Step 6: Interview candidates
• Step 7: Send a job offer and onboard your new elevator mechanic apprentice
• Step 8: Go through the hiring process checklist

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1. Identify your hiring needs

   Before you start hiring an elevator mechanic apprentice, identify what type of worker you actually need. Certain positions might call for a full-time employee, while others can be done by a part-time worker or contractor.

   Determine employee vs contractor status

   Is the person you're thinking of hiring a US citizen or green card holder?

   Yes

   No

   An elevator mechanic apprentice's background is also an important factor in determining whether they'll be a good fit for the position. For example, elevator mechanic apprentices from different industries or fields will have radically different experiences and will bring different viewpoints to the role. You also need to consider the candidate's previous level of experience to make sure they'll be comfortable with the job's level of seniority.

   Here's a comparison of elevator mechanic apprentice salaries for various roles:

   Type of Elevator Mechanic Apprentice	Description	Hourly rate
   Elevator Mechanic Apprentice	Elevator installers and repairers install, fix, and maintain elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other lifts.	$11-24
   Mechanic	Mechanics are professionals responsible for assembling, maintaining, and repairing vehicles and types of machinery. They are knowledgeable of various tools and equipment, machinery, electrical systems, and other components... Show more	$16-30
   Apprentice	An apprentice is responsible for learning specialized tasks on their chosen field through actual job training under the supervision of tenured staff. An apprentice's duties include performing administrative tasks as needed, creating observation reports of daily operations, providing possible recommendations on improving productivity, and adhering to the business' safety standards and regulatory procedures... Show more	$12-24

   Show more

2. Create an ideal candidate profile

   Common skills:

   • Traction
   • Hand Tools
   • Trouble Shoot
   • Electrical Components
   • Safety Regulations
   • Control Panels
   • RAN
   • Hoists
   • Electric Motors
   • Hydraulic Systems
   • System Components

   Responsibilities:

   • Train on steel spot, acetylene and mig welding to repair damage vehicles.
   • Modernize, remove, repair, service and maintain all existing and newly construct hydraulic and traction elevators.
   • Integrate technology into curriculum, supplementing class lectures and developing student's researching skills and internet and PowerPoint proficiency.
   • Take measurements and calculate initial problems face with new elevator install.

3. Make a budget

   Including a salary range in your elevator mechanic apprentice job description is one of the best ways to attract top talent. An elevator mechanic apprentice can vary based on:

   • Location. For example, elevator mechanic apprentices' average salary in arkansas is 34% less than in connecticut.
   • Seniority. Entry-level elevator mechanic apprentices 52% less than senior-level elevator mechanic apprentices.
   • Certifications. An elevator mechanic apprentice with certifications usually earns a higher salary.
   • Company. Working for an established firm or a new start-up company can make a big difference in an elevator mechanic apprentice's salary.

   Average elevator mechanic apprentice salary

   $35,403yearly

   $17.02 hourly rate

   ---

   Entry-level elevator mechanic apprentice salary

   $24,000 yearly salary

   Updated December 19, 2025

4. Writing an elevator mechanic apprentice job description

   An elevator mechanic apprentice job description should include a summary of the role, required skills, and a list of responsibilities. It's also good to include a salary range and the first name of the hiring manager. To help get you started, here's an example of an elevator mechanic apprentice job description:

   Elevator mechanic apprentice job description example

   
   220519
   
   Location:
   
   MD - Carmen Turner Facility 1
   
   Full/Part Time:
   
   Full-Time
   
   Posting Open-Close
   
   06/30/2022
   
   -
   
   10/30/2022
   
   Union
   
   689
   
   Regular/Temporary:
   
   Regular
   
   **Job Description**
   
   **MARKETING STATEMENT:**
   
   WMATA's Elevator / Escalator Department (ELES) repairs and maintains nearly 1,000 pieces of vertical transportation equipment within DC Metro. ELES is looking for motivated technicians to join our workforce.
   
   The Elevator / Escalator Apprenticeship Program is a nationally recognized and accredited program that train technicians to become certified Journeyman. The Elevator / Escalator Apprenticeship is a student level position leading to graduation and assignment as an ELES Journeyman. Upon completion of the four year program, graduates will become certified Journeyman and will earn up to 16 college credits. The incumbent is responsible for satisfactorily completing all formal (i.e.classroom) and on-the job training assigned over the four year period.
   
   **MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS**
   
   **Education**
   
   + Applicants must be no less than eighteen (18) years of age, and be a high school graduate or possess GED.
   
   **Experience**
   
   + Applicants are required to take a series of WMATA tests for Basic Math, Reading Comprehension, the Bennett Mechanical Aptitude Test, and a classification specific test related to the elevator/escalator trade.
   
   + Applicants must meet one of the following minimum requirements for entry into the Apprenticeship Program:
   
   1. Enrollment and completion (or substantial completion) of a post-secondary technical training program appropriate for the elevator/escalator trade.
   
   2. Two years of high school vocational training appropriate for the elevator/ escalator trade.
   
   3. Employment history demonstrating prolonged interest and progression in a comparable classification.
   
   4. Any combination of employment history and/or training that demonstrates the individuals' commitment/interest to progress in the trade.
   
   **Certification/Licensure**
   
   + Possession of a valid driver's license issued from jurisdiction of residence.
   
   + A safe driving record with no more than four (4) points accumulated over the past three (3) years.
   
   + Must satisfactorily complete and obtain the National Association of Elevator Safety Authorities (NAESA) certification, National Association of Elevator Contractors (NAEC) Certified Elevator Technician (CET) certification or equivalent and current jurisdictional licensing requirements prior to assignment as an Elevator and Escalator Journeyman Technician.
   
   **Preferred**
   
   + None
   
   **Medical Group:**
   
   Satisfactorily complete the medical examination for this position, if required. The incumbent must be able to perform the essential functions of this position either with or without reasonable accommodations.
   
   **SUMMARY**
   
   This is a series of positions leading to completion of the WMA TA ELES Elevator and Escalator Apprenticeship Program. The term of apprenticeship to become a qualified Journey person in the elevator/escalator trade as covered by the Standards of Apprenticeship requires a minimum of 8000 hours as specified in the Schedule of Trade Processes and Related Instruction. A minimum of 8000 hours will be credited to the apprentice under the Schedule of Trade Processes as outlined in the Apprenticeship Agreement. When in formal training, employee reports to the Apprenticeship Coordinator. When on On-The-Job Training (OJT), the employee reports to the ELES Maintenance Supervisor of the assigned shift. While on OJT, the employee works under close supervision of ELES Maintenance Supervisors.
   
   **ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS**
   
   + Attends formal training classes related to basic, intermediate elevator and escalator maintenance.
   
   + Maintains satisfactory attendance and academic standing throughout the program as identified within program guidelines.
   
   + Develops skills in the maintenance, inspection and repair of WMATA's elevator and escalator equipment.
   
   + Works in conjunction with assigned ELES technicians to repair and maintain elevators, escalators and dumb-waiters to meet safety regulations and building codes, using hand tools, power tools, test lamps, ammeters, voltmeters, and other testing devices.
   
   + Locates and determines causes of trouble in brakes, motors, switches, and signal and control systems using various test equipment.
   
   + Disassembles defective units and repairs or replaces parts, such as locks, gears, cables, electrical wiring and faulty safety devices, using hand tools.
   
   + Installs push-button controls and other devices to modernize elevators. Lubricates bearings and other parts to minimize friction.
   
   + Performs all tasks in conformance with safety and maintenance practices and procedures.
   
   + Completes written and electronic documentation and reports for the operation and maintenance of WMATA's elevator and escalator equipment and the Apprenticeship Program.
   
   + Responds to and provides assistance during operational emergencies including but not limited to securing and safeguarding WMATA equipment as well as snow removal. Maintains cleanliness of the work area.
   
   + Required to comply with WMATA s Safety Sensitive Substance Abuse Policy. Performs other related duties, as required.
   
   **OTHER FUNCTIONS**
   
   **The essential duties listed are not intended to limit specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Nor is it intended to limit in any way the right of managers and supervisors to assign, direct and control the work of employees under their supervision.**
   
   **Evaluation Criteria:**
   
   Consideration will be given to applicants whose resumes demonstrate the required education and experience. Applicants should include all relevant education and work experience.
   
   Evaluation criteria may include one or more of the following:
   
   + Personal Interview
   
   + Skills Assessments
   
   + Verification of education and experience
   
   + Criminal Background Check
   
   + Successful completion of a medical examination including a drug and alcohol screening
   
   + Review of a current Motor Vehicle Report
   
   **Closing:**
   
   Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, a Federal contractor, is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by applicable federal law, except where a bona fide occupational qualification exists. Our hiring process is designed to be accessible and free from discrimination.
   
   This posting is an announcement of a vacant position under recruitment. It is not intended to replace the official job description. Job descriptions are available upon confirmation of an interview.

   Copy this example

   

5. Post your job

   There are a few common ways to find elevator mechanic apprentices for your business:

   • Promoting internally or recruiting from your existing workforce.
   • Ask for referrals from friends, family members, and current employees.
   • Attend job fairs at local colleges to meet candidates with the right educational background.
   • Use social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter to recruit passive job-seekers.

   To find elevator mechanic apprentice candidates, you can consider the following options:

   • Post your job opening on Zippia or other job search websites.
   • Use niche websites that focus on engineering and technology jobs, such as constructionjobs.
   • Post your job on free job posting websites.

6. Interview candidates

   Your first interview with elevator mechanic apprentice candidates should focus on their interest in the role and background experience. As the hiring process goes on, you can learn more about how they'd fit into the company culture in later rounds of interviews.

   Remember to include a few questions that allow candidates to expand on their strengths in their own words. Asking about their unique skills might reveal things you'd miss otherwise. At this point, good candidates can move on to the technical interview.

   The right interview questions can help you assess a candidate's hard skills, behavioral intelligence, and soft skills.

7. Send a job offer and onboard your new elevator mechanic apprentice

   Once you've selected the best elevator mechanic apprentice candidate for the job, it's time to write an offer letter. In addition to salary, this letter should include details about the benefits and perks you offer the candidate. Ensuring that your offer is competitive is essential, as qualified candidates may be considering other job opportunities. The candidate may wish to negotiate the terms of the offer, and you should be open to discussion. After you reach an agreement, the final step is formalizing the agreement with a contract.

   You should also follow up with applicants who don't get the job with an email letting them know that you've filled the position.

   Once that's done, you can draft an onboarding schedule for the new elevator mechanic apprentice. Human Resources should complete Employee Action Forms and ensure that onboarding paperwork is completed, including I-9s, benefits enrollment, federal and state tax forms, etc. They should also ensure that new employee files are created for internal recordkeeping.

8. Go through the hiring process checklist

   • Determine employee type (full-time, part-time, contractor, etc.)
   • Submit a job requisition form to the HR department
   • Define job responsibilities and requirements
   • Establish budget and timeline
   • Determine hiring decision makers for the role
   • Write job description
   • Post job on job boards, company website, etc.
   • Promote the job internally
   • Process applications through applicant tracking system
   • Review resumes and cover letters
   • Shortlist candidates for screening
   • Hold phone/virtual interview screening with first round of candidates
   • Conduct in-person interviews with top candidates from first round
   • Score candidates based on weighted criteria (e.g., experience, education, background, cultural fit, skill set, etc.)
   • Conduct background checks on top candidates
   • Check references of top candidates
   • Consult with HR and hiring decision makers on job offer specifics
   • Extend offer to top candidate(s)
   • Receive formal job offer acceptance and signed employment contract
   • Inform other candidates that the position has been filled
   • Set and communicate onboarding schedule to new hire(s)
   • Complete new hire paperwork (i9, benefits enrollment, tax forms, etc.)

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