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The differences between elevator mechanics and technicians can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 4-6 years to become an elevator mechanic, becoming a technician takes usually requires 1-2 years. Additionally, an elevator mechanic has an average salary of $79,797, which is higher than the $38,045 average annual salary of a technician.
The top three skills for an elevator mechanic include traction, switches and electric motors. The most important skills for a technician are patients, customer service, and patient care.
An elevator mechanic specializes in installing and repairing elevators, ensuring efficiency and safety. They usually work with a team of other mechanics on an on-call basis, responding to emergencies such as malfunctions, which may involve rescuing people stuck at elevators. Their responsibilities also include understanding blueprints, replacing and assembling parts, investigating user complaints or feedback, and performing regular maintenance checks to ensure the quality of systems and safety of users. Furthermore, an elevator mechanic may also be in charge of installing and repairing escalators, dumbwaiters, chairlifts, and similar machinery.
Technicians are skilled professionals who primarily work with technology in different industries. They are knowledgeable about the technical aspects of the various items they work with. They are usually working with electricity or with technological advancements. Technicians may be assigned to do the construction of equipment or materials related to their field of study. They may also be assigned to conduct diagnostics and other maintenance activities to ensure that the equipment works properly. Technicians may also be required to conduct basic repairs in case of problems. It is important that technicians have good analytical skills and decision-making skills.
Elevator mechanics and technicians have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Elevator Mechanic | Technician | |
| Average salary | $79,797 | $38,045 |
| Salary range | Between $55,000 And $115,000 | Between $24,000 And $58,000 |
| Highest paying City | Fairfield, CA | San Jose, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | Hawaii |
| Best paying company | City of Los Angeles | Microsoft |
| Best paying industry | Transportation | Telecommunication |
There are a few differences between an elevator mechanic and a technician in terms of educational background:
| Elevator Mechanic | Technician | |
| Most common degree | High School Diploma, 37% | Bachelor's Degree, 32% |
| Most common major | Electrical Engineering Technology | Business |
| Most common college | - | - |
Here are the differences between elevator mechanics' and technicians' demographics:
| Elevator Mechanic | Technician | |
| Average age | 45 | 40 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 98.0% Female, 2.0% | Male, 75.2% Female, 24.8% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 4.2% Unknown, 6.5% Hispanic or Latino, 17.1% Asian, 3.7% White, 68.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% | Black or African American, 9.4% Unknown, 4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 19.4% Asian, 4.9% White, 61.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.8% |
| LGBT Percentage | 4% | 2% |