Local 74 tampa. Im a probation in my first 6 months of elevators. Best job i have ever had. The guys are happy to be there, wanting to teach and pass on knowledge. Im in mod and love the challenge.
I worked security at pfizer many years ago, anytime an elevator had issues we had to call elevator guys anytime of night they would show up gladly. Now i know why, they're rollin in the dough!
@@whateverwhenever8170 hahaha I have been known to do same thing. It’s sad you have to do that shit and 9 times out of 10 it’s just someone not doing their job right or being lazy or normal robbing Peter to pay Paul
In a lot of northern states that’s the case. In some states it’s not wise as companies will only hire non union labor and get around unionization by doing yearly shutdowns and layoffs. Crazy I know, but just be careful.
I always heard elevator mechanics made good money. If I could roll the calendar back 40 years... I got a kick out of you two talking about residential elevators and it's impact on you about wealth. I work in a lot of rich areas - Palm Beach, Jupiter Island, Manalapan, Boca Raton. I see quite a few houses with elevators. Some are uber wealthy, some are just above average. What really gets me is the artwork some of these people have. That's what shows the separation between the really big money, the wealthy, and the rest of us.
I wish I knew about this when I got out of the military, but I’ve taken all my tests and done all my interviews and number 13 on the list with only a few left in front of me so I can’t wait to get started
@@jaboutt no not yet. I started plumbing/hvac recently until then though. I haven’t even been called to be informed I’m within the next 5 yet so my guess is next spring or the following. I’ve heard from current guys my local is a slower process due to demand being lower since it’s more rural
I am a rigging and heavy haul general foreman we mostly work for the power company almost all of the guys who work for me make between 100 to 140 a year and Forman from 150 to over 200 a year The trades are where it’s at now I tell young people learn become a valuable employee. Learn everything you can.
Worked a job a few years ago where I had to coordinate my work with the elevator mechanics installing the new elevators in the building. They both got into an elevator and went down the shaft. For 2 and a half hours I waited for them to return to tell me I could continue my work. It wasn't until another tech from a jobsite 2 hours away finally showed up to get them out of the elevator, as they had locked themselves inside.
Had an online friend years back who happened to be an elevator mechanic. I'd know him for a bit before he told me what he did and how much he made, and when he did i was kinda shocked. It always stuck in my mind so when i saw the title to this video he's what i thought of.
It's so true . My ex neighbor , who passed away was killing it for years. Then he started his own company and really made big $. I asked him how busy he stayed, how was business in general . For real , he replied "It was up and down " He either had a dry sense of humor or didn't even realize the pun. Didn't even crack a smile. But he was quite old at that time.
I remember in high school i was working construction and the foreman for the elevator crew asked me if i wanted an internship... All the guys who i worked with told me i shouldn't get into that line of work and get a white collar job. I should have taken thay internship. I make good money now, but it took about 12 years to get here. I could have gotten a much earlier start in my career at 18 instead
That was another issue at least for us millennials...it wasn't just high school and parents pushing college and white collar work. Even the tradesmen were telling anyone interested in trades to stay in school and away from blue collar work.
The elevator industry is cut throat. If your dad or uncle didn’t work in it or if you don’t look like “them” it’s very hard to get a job let alone keep a job in this industry. Plus look up residential elevator installers in your area. They make 15hr……. I spent 8 years in this trade, it taught me a lot but it’s worse than the mafia. This is just my experience….
I’ve always told my guys that being an elevator mechanic pays the best, and when they retire they can become inspectors or consultants. I know what I pay my elevator contracts, and they are the most out of all my contracts.
@hotterthann take it seriously and truly want it. I'm a firm believer that if you want something be willing to reach out and take it. Be prompt, don't complain and ask questions.
Local 135, been in for 10 years now. Best decision the Lord has ever lead me to. If you're ever looking for a young mans perspective on the elevator trade, I'd be more than willing to come and talk with you. Been with Otis for all of my 10 years now and I've been shown much through the years.. Hope each one of y'all all the best. Take care fellas.
@@theoneandonly9055 To be honest with you, the way that the elevator trade is structured, getting a job with a union company, it really doesn't require or have any need for prior experience. But to answer your question directly, understanding electronic controls, print reading, trouble shooting, electrical theory and motor generator theory, will all put you scores ahead of the competition in the work place. I have found through the years that many people come for the pay and benefits in the elevator trade and they stay for the pay and benefits also. Its rare that i find someone that has a love for the trade and they go above and beyond to learn everything they can about the trade and love what they do. I have logged somewhere around 1000hours of UA-cam videos learning about all the things listed above and I will have to say, by the grace of God, things have went very well for me. I don't think its because I'm something special but rather i put in the time and the effort to understand and learn and i fell in love with what i do. Its what separates the good from the great. Good luck my friend.
I applied to the Tulsa Local 3 days ago then found this very informative video. Just turned 32 so not too old to get into this. Completely different trade than what I’ve always primarily done (sales) but hoping to get an opportunity here.
Some of the opportunities you miss when you're young! 79'-80' Iwas 18yrs old, on a fluke went to a test day for Otis elevator in Portland, Or. Apparently I'd scored second out of a lot of guys there. Found the test easy and interesting. Kept getting calls to come back, blew it off. If only I knew then what I know now!!
Hey. Don't kick yourself, my man. Millions of us missed the opportunities when we were young. I was good at school, graduated 12th in class, college easy but did not graduate. But while in high school, I still remember getting a brochure about diesel mechanics. I wanted to do it but everyone around me was pushing for science, doctor or lawyer.
@@taharqa332 go ask the majority of the population what a sprinkler fitter does… I guarantee you most people don’t know unless you’re in construction… but you can ask most of the population. What a plumber or an electrician does and they know…
I’m a non union residential elevator guy in South Florida. I love the industry. I’m taking my mechanics test on January 3 2025 (4 years in). Wish me luck.
I’ve, in the last 40 years, had the pleasure of working with many talented hardworking tradesmen, union and nonunion. I don’t however believe that elevator mechanics make the most and have the best benefits because they are the “most educated “ as this guy claims. I do believe that they have the best union. Btw, have a friend who spent his career with Otis. He is a competent tradesman that knows his s$&t like all the others great tradesmen I have been lucky enough to have met and worked with. Just my humble opinion.
Otis and Kone here in CT, got a friend and a friends father and his son in it, damn wait list is like 5,000 long, if u have an uncle in it, it got my friend moved up to the top 100 in the wait list. Lol
I was in my late 30's and had a strong background as a factory electrician/mechanic and I tried to get into the elevator trade, but they didn't want me. I wrote letters and sent out numerous resumes but never heard a thing. I called the union about an apprenticeship but all they could tell me was, I had to apply online, what left me out because I didn't know how, or I mean, how to apply effectively the way some people know how to do, the computer wizards
My Dad had 27 years in local 10 elevator union out of Washington DC, and in 2000, when I turned 18, he was begging me to get in. My dumbass was working for a floor company close to home, making a decent wage, and turned it down. Today, I kick myself in the ass because I would have 24 years in working to a hell of a retirement. I put 12 years in flooring even though I did gainfully learn a trade, but flooring is probably the hardest strain on the body. Now I'm broke up with a class A CDL driving local school buses.
We have that same saying in auto mechanics doing plumbing electrical and doing measurements thinner than your hair soo go to auto school for the 1 or 2 years than elevator school then open your own business in under 5 years
28:40 “ill work circles around these guys” Mannnn I tell yah I done heard that shit from several guys in their early fifties in the trades everytime they are the “new hire” in the shop and rarely do they work circles around anyone, they just work like everybody else but talk more shit for literally no reason 😂😂😂😂😂😂
The new gen is constantly on there cell phones and they think it’s ok because the boss isn’t around, and u wonder why they don’t get anything done. Now as to wages, in the SF Bay Area, elev mechanics make at least 75 to 80 bucks an hour not including benies! Forman, 10 bucks more.
Got in the trade when construction was going strong in a big city . Then when work gets slack and you want to get back to your little home town yeah you are right. No retirement ? No deaths ? Yeah hard to find work… lots of travel . Harder than most trades to get into.
They say nobody has the drive to do the trades right after they say they have 500 people apply and end up taking 124. The problem isnt always the applicants but the companies and unions who act like their jobs are special. Lets face it, for the most part anyone can be an elevator me mechanic. As long as you are somewhat mechanically inclined and are willing to do a 4 year course. I mean just listen to this guy, worked in warehouses then was offered to fet into this field. You dont need to be a rocket scientist.
You're right that anyone can be in a trade as long as they are willing to learn and work hard...But don't you think that out of those 500 maybe only 124 of them showed drive or were willing to do the 4 year course? That's also a big problem, getting enough people in a trade that ACTUALLY care...
Not everyone can be an elevator mechanic. We do every trade in one. Electrical, plumbing, construction, carpentry, welders. List goes on. And the reason our union is so small most of our work is two man. There could be 400+ other trades men in a construction building and only 4 elevator guys. We do it all and very precise. 200 ft rise we have to be within 1/64 of inch all the way up.
That’s the truth. There were other trades getting priced so low because the low level entry workers were in abundance. That’s why you don’t see the young master carpenters. But you do see a lot of young overweight and overpaid elevator mechanics
My brother in law worked for Ottis elevator in Detroit was the lead guy for metro airport expansion the last 2yrs on that job he worked 12hr shifts 7 days a week his base rate was 75 per hour he made
A lot of you guys are looking at the public payscale for wages most journeyed mechanics are making over-scale… scale is just the minimum they can get paid. Ive talked to quite a few mechanics in a low cost of living areas making 15-25$ an hour over scale.
Been in the elevator industry 44 years and still going strong gave up the OT for the next generation Union dues are $740 per quarter no sick days or PTOs 12 paid holidays Cadillac insurance Been blessed with this job since 1980
@@internetpointsbankI’m 21 worked hard to ranked high on the recruitment list, did lots of certification classes to come stacked and worked for public works which gave me great experience. Am I lazy? I think certain people made it seem like we are that, but there’s a good group of us hard working young people.
@@OmarHernandez-gv6nu He is correct, no PTO. If you want to self-fund your own time off, then you can. They will take a bit off each check to equal a weeks pay or whatever you want. That way you can still take the days off and get a normal check the next week despite not actually get PTO from an employer.
@@genuismensa okay thanks for clearing that, I’ve been trying to get a lot more info on the trade works so I can prepare myself. I worked hard for this it’s my dream career.
I wish these videos were around 10 years ago before started automotive. It’s crazy how little we make compared to all the other trades. I’d love to get into the elevator trade but it seems impossible due to how small the union is.
@@zacharybob4336 I’m a 10 year master tech for Acura and only make $32/hr in Massachusetts. For comparison my brother is an electrician in local 103 and makes over $60/hr. And to make things worse I need to buy all my own tools. Probably have over 30k in tools
I work with kids talking about trades etc in nyc schools . Not much I can tell them about elevator mechanics because it’s like a gated community . But if your blessed to get in God bless you . Maybe there’s a way to learn the trade without a hook of some sort but I have never heard of one .
I quit school 16 year old. 20 years ago i got my machine operating certificate and what you call CDL. And on a good year i take in 70-90k a year. If i would buy my own machine and do like a taxi work on a crane i could do even more...
Depends on which Union you're looking at getting into. I'd say yes, that's the bare minimum to have. Get in contact with someone at your local and double check...
Yup exactly what he said. I just interviewed for the local here in Ohio. 23 years old. Started at mcds when I was 16, moved to warehouse work, now asphalt 2 years. I got ranked 40th out of I wanna say 180. I won’t get the call in the next 2 years. Not discouraged but motivated now. The guy who interviewed me knows who I am( he’s the boss to family in the industry). He was very honest with me and said I’m under qualified, I’ll make the list but not as high as guys like you. Have that certificate, take pics of at home projects; and I mean ANYTHING working on ur car, Redoing the bathrooms, ur best projects at work! Take pics my man they want them in the interview. So it doesn’t translate but man does it look good. Good luck brother. Aptitude tests he mentioned to get the interview are extremely easy. Doesn’t go as high as 7th grade math. Fractions, decimals, simplifying them, adding them. Reading is easy. I will say have a very basic understanding of water pressure, levers and gearing (direction of turn) and how that works. OHSA 10 and cpr certificates are a must. Get in there my man
Im a journeyman electrician. I was blessed and ranked number one. But to put into perspective. My 19 yr old brother in law got ranked 25 with no experience in any trade, better than some union journeymen that ranked 40 or worse. Its not about the experience. Its about the interview. Record your self. Get fluid with your speech, get fluid with the questions, dig deep to the core of the question. Do not try and make a connection with elevators. Just aim to hit the core of the interview questions. Its hard for alot of people but it definitely is possible. My 19yr old brother in law had me to help him prep but we didnt lie. We just used his experience to hit the root of the question. And he ended up placed higher than alot of tradesmen.
@@montestreet2505 ....Hmm....35 year IUEC member here....Depending on which direction your carrer goes.....You will need some good math skills for electronics and calculations especially if you want to the "top dog" in Constrution known as an Adjuster....The person who does the final programming and tuning of an elevator system.....I had college level Electronics Classes and there are simular requirements to be sucessful in areas of the IUEC....Never enjoyed "running rails" or setting machine beams walking the high steel of a 40+ story building in my career but, kept a roof over my head when I had to. I enjoyed working on ajusting crews and field service troubleshooting in my later years of employment in the IUEC
You have to go through thier full 4 year apprenticship unless you worked for a manufacturer of equipment in a position like engineering. The few guys I worked around who entered the IUEC as an "Article 10" usually showed large deficiencies in some aspects of our trade. One smart engineer was assigned to me on a huge hi-rise building. I was told by my job foreman....This guy is NOT! an IUEC member....your his boss! Legend had it that he was working in NYC and they first fired up a new technology elevator system....began moving up the building without putting proper compensating weight value on the platform....soon...PHYSICS took over and 2-3tons of steel was racing towards the top of the building and when it CRASHED! there was tens of thousands of $$$'s in resulting damage....luckilly no injuries.
Takes about 10 years of retirement pay outs to get the money out that you put in .how many retire and live 10 years.? What are the stats on those members?
Nationally the elevator union has like 90% market share for the elevator industry, most of the other trades like electricians plumbers etc. its less than 50%. Lineman also have a high rate of union membership and they make a lot more than most other trades as well.
I respect both sides all he said was he had to work for somebody and this generation is more of starting business and creating jobs especially when ppl future depend on negotiations instead of necessity and skill
I would love for this guy to come with me to work for one day as an aircraft mechanic. try reading the electrical schematics of a jumbo jet or even try and figure out how to get one wheel off without killing yourself..
Well he isn't an aircraft mechanic so I'm sure he would fail. Just like I'm sure you'd fail at properly fixing an elevator. Not sure what your point is?
It's not just wanting to work. It's wanting to be home with your family and enjoy thr money you make. I've been an aircraft mechanic for twenty years. It's intreat in the job, it's knowing that the job is there. Because yes four years of schooling and you can make 300k as a pilot. They have forced retirement age. So not as simple and as great as they like to make it out.
Salaries are going up for elevator mechanics. If you ask for a raise, they can go higher. Definitely a career on the ascent. I wonder how long it takes to get to the top? (ok I'll stop now😊)
It's demand for the job and the fact there is no competition from the private sector so the Union can leverage that. Good on those hard working guys, but trying the put valuation on skilled labor based on pay is foolish. I couldn't repair an elevator but as a machinist I could make any part they need to do their job.
look up IUEC the International Union of Elevator Constructors but, PLEASE! be somebody who likes to work on mechanical & electric machinery.....If you dont have the passion and aptitude....you'll be miserable
Anyone who thinks they want to be an elevator mechanic based on this is going to be in for a reality check, there’s 25k of them in the whole country, compare that to nearly 500k plumbers and you realize there’s effectively no opportunity in this trade.
$53/hr for Journeyman is not the highest out of the trades. I’m a Union Powerhouse Mechanic and I’m at $61.29/hr as a max’d out journeyman. Wage’s are mostly public knowledge on the local’s website… the title of this video is misleading. Also elevator mechanics don’t have any side work unlike most of the other trades. Good talk otherwise.
You’re misinformed, our hourly rate in the electrical utilities industry is quite a bit more than these elevator guys. All over time is double time and our per diem is $125 a day no matter where we work.
Im an entrtainment rigger for 6 months oit of the year. I make $38 per hr and anything over 8 hrs in a day is overtime. We work 16 hr days 4 days a week. That is pocket change compared to the $160 pr hr I make blowing glass for the remainder of the year.
It pays the most because its a complex and expensive piece of equipment that takes a-lot of skill and raw labor to construct. 53 is a lower wage tbh. Overtime is double in construction and mod too. Mechanics on ot make 130 an hour here. 400 a week annuity contribution too. Pension. Health insurance is top notch too. $300 to have a kid. Less if you already met your deductible. Good career but challenging and fast paced . Put them in faster faster faster every-time while maintaining craftsmanship and precision. Also it’s frustrating with so much safety but i get why they do it. Just slows you down
Good wages but he shouldn't claim it's the highest paid trade. As an equipment operator in the linemans union I make the same hourly plus 50 a day "tool rent", which I bring no tools, all are provided by the company.. journeyman lineman make about 60 an hour. Foremans make 65+. These are upstate ny rates.
Talking about the guy who is 65 and has 65 years worth of pension is so sad. The guy will never see the fruits of his labor and will die and some union will just mark that credit off the books. Its crazy sad if you really think about it.
I feel the same show your kids your work they say ya I know you will show more in ten minutes but I hope he remembers everything I've done ,he should be in the elevator trade he's 14 now ill be talking elevators to him hopefully he will join you zach
Roger, Local 100 got rid of the 35 year cap last year(2023) I have now 30 years credit there. I have often thought about going from HVAC side of things to elevator mechanic. Doing the HVAC I’ve done most of what they have. Welding, wiring, running pipe, rigging, machining, building your own tools to do a job. I do love the job, I love working on the most complicated challenging problems & resolving it. Retrofitting panels & drives to machines that were not intended to have it. 9 out of 10 people will not make the cut that we hire. They just give up.
@@notyourtypicalfarah7194 yes they can. Helps them sell more as well since they are already their diagnosing the problem. Also some companies do have a sales team as well.
@ just asking brother thanks very much for the information I’m looking for a new trade I’m currently a auto tech but I’m feeling burnt I’m looking at either plumbing or electrical trades. New applications for elevator mechanic don’t open here in San Diego until 2026
Well my advice to you is to pick a trade you like more. You'll enjoy it more and make great money at it. Good luck on your journey and let me know how it goes!
Local 21 is the lowest in the iuec per there cost of living in there area. Other locals make more but dfw has exploded in cost of living the past 15yrs and isnt up to par. Most members would agree with me
Naval Station Norfolk - biggest navy base on earth; elevators in numerous buildings are always broken. Ppl have gotten hurt from elevators literally falling, old workers either take the stairs or stay home. NAVFAC (Naval Facilities) has a team of elevator mechanics who can’t fix shit!!! I don’t know what they earn - but they don’t deserve it.
Not when that piece of elevator equipment fails and your being sued for something that might not have been your fault....You'd have been better off to be a painter then🤣
Local 74 tampa. Im a probation in my first 6 months of elevators. Best job i have ever had. The guys are happy to be there, wanting to teach and pass on knowledge. Im in mod and love the challenge.
why are you all so mean to the other tradies though?
Nice to know. I'm #2 on the list in naples. I am also next to be called any day now. Can not wait.
Awesome man! Waiting for my test for local 71 Miami..
@@Paulk305 did you get called?
@eltonkimes8603 still waiting right now brotha... never thought it would take so long being #2.... I also applied for Miami. Waiting for interview
Just passed my mechanics exam June 3.IUEC FOR LIFE!!
Heck yeah! Congrats!
I worked security at pfizer many years ago, anytime an elevator had issues we had to call elevator guys anytime of night they would show up gladly. Now i know why, they're rollin in the dough!
Proud to be an Elevator Journeyman!
How do I get on? I live in NC.
How is it? Do you usually work solo or with people
@@yannickpenka5039I’m in NC as well. I Just got on with company called Delaware elevator
They make the most because their union is the strongest and the best.
Probably because it’s tiny and a monopoly at this point lol! We need those unions
@@whateverwhenever8170 hahaha I have been known to do same thing. It’s sad you have to do that shit and 9 times out of 10 it’s just someone not doing their job right or being lazy or normal robbing Peter to pay Paul
In a lot of northern states that’s the case. In some states it’s not wise as companies will only hire non union labor and get around unionization by doing yearly shutdowns and layoffs. Crazy I know, but just be careful.
Definitely not because they deserve it. As the saying goes “You don’t get what you deserve; you get what you negotiate!”
It's the most difficulty trade skill-wise.
I always heard elevator mechanics made good money. If I could roll the calendar back 40 years...
I got a kick out of you two talking about residential elevators and it's impact on you about wealth. I work in a lot of rich areas - Palm Beach, Jupiter Island, Manalapan, Boca Raton. I see quite a few houses with elevators. Some are uber wealthy, some are just above average. What really gets me is the artwork some of these people have. That's what shows the separation between the really big money, the wealthy, and the rest of us.
So glad to have gotten into this after the military and fire.
Same
I wish I knew about this when I got out of the military, but I’ve taken all my tests and done all my interviews and number 13 on the list with only a few left in front of me so I can’t wait to get started
@@WindyPine1131did you get called yet? I should be getting called any day now for local eight out of San Francisco.
@@jaboutt no not yet. I started plumbing/hvac recently until then though. I haven’t even been called to be informed I’m within the next 5 yet so my guess is next spring or the following. I’ve heard from current guys my local is a slower process due to demand being lower since it’s more rural
I am a rigging and heavy haul general foreman we mostly work for the power company almost all of the guys who work for me make between 100 to 140 a year and Forman from 150 to over 200 a year The trades are where it’s at now I tell young people learn become a valuable employee. Learn everything you can.
Worked automotive 6 years.. Covid came and I went to forklift repair, best swap I ever made.
Worked a job a few years ago where I had to coordinate my work with the elevator mechanics installing the new elevators in the building. They both got into an elevator and went down the shaft. For 2 and a half hours I waited for them to return to tell me I could continue my work. It wasn't until another tech from a jobsite 2 hours away finally showed up to get them out of the elevator, as they had locked themselves inside.
hahahhahahah monty python type sketch :)
Had an online friend years back who happened to be an elevator mechanic. I'd know him for a bit before he told me what he did and how much he made, and when he did i was kinda shocked. It always stuck in my mind so when i saw the title to this video he's what i thought of.
It's so true . My ex neighbor , who passed away was killing it for years. Then he started his own company and really made big $.
I asked him how busy he stayed, how was business in general . For real , he replied "It was up and down " He either had a dry sense of humor or didn't even realize the pun. Didn't even crack a smile. But he was quite old at that time.
Just take aptitude test I hope I get an interview so excited
I remember in high school i was working construction and the foreman for the elevator crew asked me if i wanted an internship...
All the guys who i worked with told me i shouldn't get into that line of work and get a white collar job.
I should have taken thay internship. I make good money now, but it took about 12 years to get here. I could have gotten a much earlier start in my career at 18 instead
That was another issue at least for us millennials...it wasn't just high school and parents pushing college and white collar work. Even the tradesmen were telling anyone interested in trades to stay in school and away from blue collar work.
The elevator industry is cut throat. If your dad or uncle didn’t work in it or if you don’t look like “them” it’s very hard to get a job let alone keep a job in this industry. Plus look up residential elevator installers in your area. They make 15hr…….
I spent 8 years in this trade, it taught me a lot but it’s worse than the mafia.
This is just my experience….
That post contradicts your handle...
@@TruckngirlI respect your opinion but I also disagree. The truth isn’t always positive and I do live in reality.
Yeah I'm gonna stick with welding. At least there's levels of pay and not being either union making 200k a year or 15$ hour with nothing in between.
@@danielmartin531 from my experience I’d say that’s a good idea! Best of luck to you!!
Hold my beer, challenge accepted
I’ve always told my guys that being an elevator mechanic pays the best, and when they retire they can become inspectors or consultants. I know what I pay my elevator contracts, and they are the most out of all my contracts.
That goes with almost every trade…
I’m 17 i’m going into my senior year and I want to become an Elevator Mechanic after high school. Do you have any advice for me?
@hotterthann take it seriously and truly want it. I'm a firm believer that if you want something be willing to reach out and take it. Be prompt, don't complain and ask questions.
@@hotterthanntaking welding classes and electrical classes. Get a job doing something that will appeal to interviewers
Local 135, been in for 10 years now. Best decision the Lord has ever lead me to. If you're ever looking for a young mans perspective on the elevator trade, I'd be more than willing to come and talk with you. Been with Otis for all of my 10 years now and I've been shown much through the years.. Hope each one of y'all all the best. Take care fellas.
What do you think is the best trade to get experience in before pursuing Elevator Maintenance?
@@theoneandonly9055 To be honest with you, the way that the elevator trade is structured, getting a job with a union company, it really doesn't require or have any need for prior experience. But to answer your question directly, understanding electronic controls, print reading, trouble shooting, electrical theory and motor generator theory, will all put you scores ahead of the competition in the work place. I have found through the years that many people come for the pay and benefits in the elevator trade and they stay for the pay and benefits also. Its rare that i find someone that has a love for the trade and they go above and beyond to learn everything they can about the trade and love what they do. I have logged somewhere around 1000hours of UA-cam videos learning about all the things listed above and I will have to say, by the grace of God, things have went very well for me. I don't think its because I'm something special but rather i put in the time and the effort to understand and learn and i fell in love with what i do. Its what separates the good from the great. Good luck my friend.
I applied to the Tulsa Local 3 days ago then found this very informative video. Just turned 32 so not too old to get into this. Completely different trade than what I’ve always primarily done (sales) but hoping to get an opportunity here.
Good luck getting in.
Just have to test well. I didnt know anyone but went in on test day and passed then interview. Hired next day. I placed 4th out of 600 applicants
@@noahwinfield8958What was on the test? What should I be studying? Thanks in advance, taking my test soon
Some of the opportunities you miss when you're young! 79'-80' Iwas 18yrs old, on a fluke went to a test day for Otis elevator in Portland, Or. Apparently I'd scored second out of a lot of guys there. Found the test easy and interesting. Kept getting calls to come back, blew it off. If only I knew then what I know now!!
Hey. Don't kick yourself, my man. Millions of us missed the opportunities when we were young. I was good at school, graduated 12th in class, college easy but did not graduate. But while in high school, I still remember getting a brochure about diesel mechanics. I wanted to do it but everyone around me was pushing for science, doctor or lawyer.
@@eoleol4750 Lol, somehow it works out. I ended up building and owning a large insurance agency. Hope all went well for you.
How bout sprinkler fitters.. you should shine some light on us.. most people don’t even know what it is
I designed sprinkler systems while in college. Great part time job.
plumbers with no skills
You’re a sprinkler fitter…not hard to figure out what the job is. 😂😂😂
@@taharqa332 go ask the majority of the population what a sprinkler fitter does… I guarantee you most people don’t know unless you’re in construction… but you can ask most of the population. What a plumber or an electrician does and they know…
@@taharqa332Probably making sure enough sprinkles fit on a donut, not a bad job for sure
Im retiring from the Army and want to get into this field. I've always been fascinated by the concept and designs
I’m a non union residential elevator guy in South Florida. I love the industry. I’m taking my mechanics test on January 3 2025 (4 years in). Wish me luck.
are u with local 71 ?
You asked all the question I would’ve wanted to know. Good video
I’ve, in the last 40 years, had the pleasure of working with many talented hardworking tradesmen, union and nonunion. I don’t however believe that elevator mechanics make the most and have the best benefits because they are the “most educated “ as this guy claims. I do believe that they have the best union. Btw, have a friend who spent his career with Otis. He is a competent tradesman that knows his s$&t like all the others great tradesmen I have been lucky enough to have met and worked with. Just my humble opinion.
Well…they are the highest paid on jobs
Otis and Kone here in CT, got a friend and a friends father and his son in it, damn wait list is like 5,000 long, if u have an uncle in it, it got my friend moved up to the top 100 in the wait list. Lol
Yea 😂 I’m a non union high pressure vessel fabricator and just got a 18k bonus check 😂 🤷🏻🫡
How do you know they have the best union? Have you personally read every other unions MOU? Doubt it.
They probably do based on the after hours rate of pay,
Asphalt life baby. Connecticut 75 bucks an hours. With prevailing wage. 4 months off every year. I make 120k a year. April-October
This is for me. Thanks for this interview!
Our pleasure!
Just tested local 5. Im 30 on the list right now. Cant wait for the call.
Good luck!
I really enjoyed this video. I wish I knew about this trade when I got out of the Air Force back in 97
I was in my late 30's and had a strong background as a factory electrician/mechanic and I tried to get into the elevator trade, but they didn't want me. I wrote letters and sent out numerous resumes but never heard a thing. I called the union about an apprenticeship but all they could tell me was, I had to apply online, what left me out because I didn't know how, or I mean, how to apply effectively the way some people know how to do, the computer wizards
My Dad had 27 years in local 10 elevator union out of Washington DC, and in 2000, when I turned 18, he was begging me to get in. My dumbass was working for a floor company close to home, making a decent wage, and turned it down. Today, I kick myself in the ass because I would have 24 years in working to a hell of a retirement. I put 12 years in flooring even though I did gainfully learn a trade, but flooring is probably the hardest strain on the body. Now I'm broke up with a class A CDL driving local school buses.
We have that same saying in auto mechanics doing plumbing electrical and doing measurements thinner than your hair soo go to auto school for the 1 or 2 years than elevator school then open your own business in under 5 years
28:40 “ill work circles around these guys” Mannnn I tell yah I done heard that shit from several guys in their early fifties in the trades everytime they are the “new hire” in the shop and rarely do they work circles around anyone, they just work like everybody else but talk more shit for literally no reason 😂😂😂😂😂😂
Don’t hate congratulate! 😂
Its called gate keeping and thell do anything to uphold their little world.
@natenate2280 lol. Right? I know the type. Im 50 and see guys my age fall out all the time, We Roofers, are a different breed though.. XD
@internetpointsbank Sometimes, the younger ones are just weak. Some trades don't have time to coddle them. Just the facts and all.
@@internetpointsbankSounds like you might have a skill issue.
The new gen is constantly on there cell phones and they think it’s ok because the boss isn’t around, and u wonder why they don’t get anything done. Now as to wages, in the SF Bay Area, elev mechanics make at least 75 to 80 bucks an hour not including benies! Forman, 10 bucks more.
Thank you for this interview. Very insightful!
Thanks for listening
I’m going on the 12 year as a plumber. Since 2019 I have made 400k a year. I started off around the 140-160k
400k a year as a business owner ???
@@jojolopez177 no I’m just a technician. The owner makes 2 million a month on average. Profit
How many hours in a week on average? Residential or commercial
@@jojolopez177 no my brother in law use to own the company! Jordan Beebe
I’m just a tech but I run nothing but older homes.
@@notyourtypicalfarah7194 45 hours or so but I could work more if I wanted. I like taking my day off and no on call
hard to get in the elevator union. no one retires, lol
Shipping Captains median age is 58 😂😅 met the youngest at 27 😮❤
Got in the trade when construction was going strong in a big city . Then when work gets slack and you want to get back to your little home town yeah you are right. No retirement ? No deaths ? Yeah hard to find work… lots of travel . Harder than most trades to get into.
@@roberthicks9191 can’t in this economy
Blet locomotive engineer here 63.77hr !
They say nobody has the drive to do the trades right after they say they have 500 people apply and end up taking 124. The problem isnt always the applicants but the companies and unions who act like their jobs are special. Lets face it, for the most part anyone can be an elevator me mechanic. As long as you are somewhat mechanically inclined and are willing to do a 4 year course. I mean just listen to this guy, worked in warehouses then was offered to fet into this field. You dont need to be a rocket scientist.
You're right that anyone can be in a trade as long as they are willing to learn and work hard...But don't you think that out of those 500 maybe only 124 of them showed drive or were willing to do the 4 year course? That's also a big problem, getting enough people in a trade that ACTUALLY care...
Not everyone can be an elevator mechanic. We do every trade in one. Electrical, plumbing, construction, carpentry, welders. List goes on. And the reason our union is so small most of our work is two man. There could be 400+ other trades men in a construction building and only 4 elevator guys. We do it all and very precise. 200 ft rise we have to be within 1/64 of inch all the way up.
That’s the truth. There were other trades getting priced so low because the low level entry workers were in abundance. That’s why you don’t see the young master carpenters. But you do see a lot of young overweight and overpaid elevator mechanics
Elevator jobs are dicey. Since they are always up and down.
Goat
My brother in law worked for Ottis elevator in Detroit was the lead guy for metro airport expansion the last 2yrs on that job he worked 12hr shifts 7 days a week his base rate was 75 per hour he made
65 pension years. That is about $100k a year pension pay out.
Wow that’s terrible for a trade this exclusive. You can get that as a plumber or electrician much more easily
A lot of you guys are looking at the public payscale for wages most journeyed mechanics are making over-scale… scale is just the minimum they can get paid. Ive talked to quite a few mechanics in a low cost of living areas making 15-25$ an hour over scale.
Been in the elevator industry 44 years and still going strong gave up the OT for the next generation
Union dues are
$740 per quarter no sick days or PTOs 12 paid holidays Cadillac insurance
Been blessed with this job since 1980
No PTO at all or what do you mean, I placed 8 out of 300 in Iowa so I’m curious and trying to get insight more because I’m very excited.
Remember no matter what you do don't train any young guy. Us boomers have a reputation to uphold. These young kids are lazy.
@@internetpointsbankI’m 21 worked hard to ranked high on the recruitment list, did lots of certification classes to come stacked and worked for public works which gave me great experience. Am I lazy? I think certain people made it seem like we are that, but there’s a good group of us hard working young people.
@@OmarHernandez-gv6nu He is correct, no PTO. If you want to self-fund your own time off, then you can. They will take a bit off each check to equal a weeks pay or whatever you want. That way you can still take the days off and get a normal check the next week despite not actually get PTO from an employer.
@@genuismensa okay thanks for clearing that, I’ve been trying to get a lot more info on the trade works so I can prepare myself. I worked hard for this it’s my dream career.
I was looking to do it but not sure what the route is exactly, any help folks?
I wish these videos were around 10 years ago before started automotive. It’s crazy how little we make compared to all the other trades. I’d love to get into the elevator trade but it seems impossible due to how small the union is.
Mechanics are the most underpaid trade hands down.
@@zacharybob4336 I’m a 10 year master tech for Acura and only make $32/hr in Massachusetts. For comparison my brother is an electrician in local 103 and makes over $60/hr. And to make things worse I need to buy all my own tools. Probably have over 30k in tools
I work with kids talking about trades etc in nyc schools . Not much I can tell them about elevator mechanics because it’s like a gated community . But if your blessed to get in God bless you . Maybe there’s a way to learn the trade without a hook of some sort but I have never heard of one .
Zack is my rep at local 21. Stand out guy. He would give you the shirt off of his back.
He came across that way...great guy
In Canada steel framers doing corridors and ceiling or units Make 5k a week piece …
The NEIEP apprenticeship is a 5 year program now.
We’re making 65+ an hour up here northeast
Im 30, have my own heavy equipment repair business. I also do over the phone consulting
What courses would you recommend to get into that?
I almost joined in SF California. The money comes from the skill required and the danger level. Also, it’s a big money item to have and maintain.
I quit school 16 year old. 20 years ago i got my machine operating certificate and what you call CDL. And on a good year i take in 70-90k a year. If i would buy my own machine and do like a taxi work on a crane i could do even more...
Do I need a GED ? I am 40 thinking about getting into this
Depends on which Union you're looking at getting into. I'd say yes, that's the bare minimum to have. Get in contact with someone at your local and double check...
Is there some chance for a immigrant to have his visa sponsored for a apprenticeship?
great content, keep up the good work, great conversations stay bless.
Thank you!
Does the elevator union take lateral transfers from the electrical union and piping trades and build up their education in what they are deficient on?
Nope, it might help you get higher on the list. But thats about it.
Yup exactly what he said. I just interviewed for the local here in Ohio. 23 years old. Started at mcds when I was 16, moved to warehouse work, now asphalt 2 years. I got ranked 40th out of I wanna say 180. I won’t get the call in the next 2 years. Not discouraged but motivated now. The guy who interviewed me knows who I am( he’s the boss to family in the industry). He was very honest with me and said I’m under qualified, I’ll make the list but not as high as guys like you. Have that certificate, take pics of at home projects; and I mean ANYTHING working on ur car, Redoing the bathrooms, ur best projects at work! Take pics my man they want them in the interview.
So it doesn’t translate but man does it look good. Good luck brother.
Aptitude tests he mentioned to get the interview are extremely easy. Doesn’t go as high as 7th grade math. Fractions, decimals, simplifying them, adding them. Reading is easy. I will say have a very basic understanding of water pressure, levers and gearing (direction of turn) and how that works.
OHSA 10 and cpr certificates are a must. Get in there my man
Im a journeyman electrician. I was blessed and ranked number one. But to put into perspective. My 19 yr old brother in law got ranked 25 with no experience in any trade, better than some union journeymen that ranked 40 or worse. Its not about the experience. Its about the interview. Record your self. Get fluid with your speech, get fluid with the questions, dig deep to the core of the question. Do not try and make a connection with elevators. Just aim to hit the core of the interview questions. Its hard for alot of people but it definitely is possible.
My 19yr old brother in law had me to help him prep but we didnt lie. We just used his experience to hit the root of the question. And he ended up placed higher than alot of tradesmen.
@@montestreet2505 ....Hmm....35 year IUEC member here....Depending on which direction your carrer goes.....You will need some good math skills for electronics and calculations especially if you want to the "top dog" in Constrution known as an Adjuster....The person who does the final programming and tuning of an elevator system.....I had college level Electronics Classes and there are simular requirements to be sucessful in areas of the IUEC....Never enjoyed "running rails" or setting machine beams walking the high steel of a 40+ story building in my career but, kept a roof over my head when I had to. I enjoyed working on ajusting crews and field service troubleshooting in my later years of employment in the IUEC
You have to go through thier full 4 year apprenticship unless you worked for a manufacturer of equipment in a position like engineering. The few guys I worked around who entered the IUEC as an "Article 10" usually showed large deficiencies in some aspects of our trade. One smart engineer was assigned to me on a huge hi-rise building. I was told by my job foreman....This guy is NOT! an IUEC member....your his boss! Legend had it that he was working in NYC and they first fired up a new technology elevator system....began moving up the building without putting proper compensating weight value on the platform....soon...PHYSICS took over and 2-3tons of steel was racing towards the top of the building and when it CRASHED! there was tens of thousands of $$$'s in resulting damage....luckilly no injuries.
Takes about 10 years of retirement pay outs to get the money out that you put in .how many retire and live 10 years.? What are the stats on those members?
That’s a good question
thinking ahead
My grandfather is 80 and still very healthy. Did 40 years in the business.
Nationally the elevator union has like 90% market share for the elevator industry, most of the other trades like electricians plumbers etc. its less than 50%. Lineman also have a high rate of union membership and they make a lot more than most other trades as well.
Great point!
I made 130k last year with per diem as a non union apprentice in the fly over states. The dream is still alive for those that want to work.
Journeyman pay with power company in the southeast is 51/hr and all the OT you want.
@joemay1200 yeah im on a prevailing right now, about 52/hour for laborers and apprentices.
@@jamesross160what trade and what's the starting wage for the apprenticeship?
What about starting this trade at 40 yrs old? Is it too late?
It's never too late...
I respect both sides all he said was he had to work for somebody and this generation is more of starting business and creating jobs especially when ppl future depend on negotiations instead of necessity and skill
I gotta take the exam in 3 weeks
Are you confident about it?
Im in Local 300😎👍 Go Union's !!
together we can negotiate better
I’ve been trying to figure out how to go onto become an elevator mechanic but have no idea where to start any help?
Start with picking a trade that actually has opportunities. There’s twice as many heart surgeons as there are elevator mechanics in the US.
I would love for this guy to come with me to work for one day as an aircraft mechanic. try reading the electrical schematics of a jumbo jet or even try and figure out how to get one wheel off without killing yourself..
Well he isn't an aircraft mechanic so I'm sure he would fail. Just like I'm sure you'd fail at properly fixing an elevator. Not sure what your point is?
It's not just wanting to work. It's wanting to be home with your family and enjoy thr money you make. I've been an aircraft mechanic for twenty years. It's intreat in the job, it's knowing that the job is there. Because yes four years of schooling and you can make 300k as a pilot. They have forced retirement age. So not as simple and as great as they like to make it out.
im local 1 nyc, helpers here making more than mechanics in texas
Cost of living has a big part in that I’m sure.
What’s the pay looking like in ny
Salaries are going up for elevator mechanics. If you ask for a raise, they can go higher. Definitely a career on the ascent. I wonder how long it takes to get to the top? (ok I'll stop now😊)
The tough part is the nepotism in this trade. Can’t get in unless you know someone.
It’s weird that the average salary in most states is under 50k
$2500 per year membership fees in exchange for millions in retirement.
Well that’s complete bull shit, the retirement is in exchange for years of your life not the $2500 in annual membership, what a moron.
It's demand for the job and the fact there is no competition from the private sector so the Union can leverage that. Good on those hard working guys, but trying the put valuation on skilled labor based on pay is foolish. I couldn't repair an elevator but as a machinist I could make any part they need to do their job.
how dangerous is an elevator constructor?
Close to $200k/year working on elevators…and no student loans.
Holy crap…
I am a High School dropout.and am estatic I refused to stay in school. I simi retired at 35.
Where does elevator mechanics market themselves ? How can one find one of these guys?
look up IUEC the International Union of Elevator Constructors but, PLEASE! be somebody who likes to work on mechanical & electric machinery.....If you dont have the passion and aptitude....you'll be miserable
Anyone who thinks they want to be an elevator mechanic based on this is going to be in for a reality check, there’s 25k of them in the whole country, compare that to nearly 500k plumbers and you realize there’s effectively no opportunity in this trade.
$53/hr for Journeyman is not the highest out of the trades. I’m a Union Powerhouse Mechanic and I’m at $61.29/hr as a max’d out journeyman. Wage’s are mostly public knowledge on the local’s website… the title of this video is misleading. Also elevator mechanics don’t have any side work unlike most of the other trades. Good talk otherwise.
$53 is just Dallas local. It goes into the high $70’s. It’s public information
@@UNIONDOLLAR how does one become a powerhouse mechanic?
In DFW, Union fitter scale is 38ish an hour
Maxed journeyman in philly for elevators makes 70$
Yeah actually $53/hr for a trade this exclusive is pathetic. I make that living in a town of 1500 as a union electrician.
You’re misinformed, our hourly rate in the electrical utilities industry is quite a bit more than these elevator guys. All over time is double time and our per diem is $125 a day no matter where we work.
Are you comparing your rate to the elevators in your area? In my city a lineman in utility is at 48.35 and an elevators mechanic is at 57.68.
@@Buciiioblet locomotive engineer here 63.77hr
Im an entrtainment rigger for 6 months oit of the year. I make $38 per hr and anything over 8 hrs in a day is overtime. We work 16 hr days 4 days a week. That is pocket change compared to the $160 pr hr I make blowing glass for the remainder of the year.
All our overtime is also double time. And triple time on holidays.
8:01 53 in tx
37:01 100 total pak
I'd join just to get one of them schnazzy Dr Who union shirts (and to pay the bills)😅
It pays the most because its a complex and expensive piece of equipment that takes a-lot of skill and raw labor to construct. 53 is a lower wage tbh. Overtime is double in construction and mod too. Mechanics on ot make 130 an hour here. 400 a week annuity contribution too. Pension. Health insurance is top notch too. $300 to have a kid. Less if you already met your deductible. Good career but challenging and fast paced . Put them in faster faster faster every-time while maintaining craftsmanship and precision. Also it’s frustrating with so much safety but i get why they do it. Just slows you down
Good wages but he shouldn't claim it's the highest paid trade. As an equipment operator in the linemans union I make the same hourly plus 50 a day "tool rent", which I bring no tools, all are provided by the company.. journeyman lineman make about 60 an hour. Foremans make 65+. These are upstate ny rates.
Definitely the highest paid trade. Texas is the lowest paying in the mid 50s. Chicago is 70+
Talking about the guy who is 65 and has 65 years worth of pension is so sad. The guy will never see the fruits of his labor and will die and some union will just mark that credit off the books. Its crazy sad if you really think about it.
I feel the same show your kids your work they say ya I know you will show more in ten minutes but I hope he remembers everything I've done ,he should be in the elevator trade he's 14 now ill be talking elevators to him hopefully he will join you zach
Roger, Local 100 got rid of the 35 year cap last year(2023) I have now 30 years credit there. I have often thought about going from HVAC side of things to elevator mechanic. Doing the HVAC I’ve done most of what they have. Welding, wiring, running pipe, rigging, machining, building your own tools to do a job. I do love the job, I love working on the most complicated challenging problems & resolving it. Retrofitting panels & drives to machines that were not intended to have it. 9 out of 10 people will not make the cut that we hire. They just give up.
People who can sell in the trades make the most money. Plumbers and hvac techs. Know guys who pull in 400k a year
Also saw a guy sell 8 mill in one year and more than likely he gets 10percent
@@miguelespino6087 techs can do sales? They don't have sales teams? Also is this residential?
@@notyourtypicalfarah7194 yes they can. Helps them sell more as well since they are already their diagnosing the problem. Also some companies do have a sales team as well.
Is this trade recession proof ? Elevator mechanic?
Of course it is...what do you think?
@ just asking brother thanks very much for the information I’m looking for a new trade I’m currently a auto tech but I’m feeling burnt I’m looking at either plumbing or electrical trades. New applications for elevator mechanic don’t open here in San Diego until 2026
Well my advice to you is to pick a trade you like more. You'll enjoy it more and make great money at it. Good luck on your journey and let me know how it goes!
@@TheTradeTalks2.0 plumbing seems like a
Good trade make good money 💰
It's the greatest trade
Carpenters are making $45 per hour and handymen start at $100 and that’s in North Carolina.
Handymen start at $100/hr lmfao😂😂😂
Show me the job postings. You’re so full of **** it’s coming out your ears.
How about someone who is 43? I do IT and just not happy...
You’re never too old to start! That’s what I talk about in half our interviews!
❤ this is epic
Aww shucks my pair of wire stretchers just broke. I suppose I'll just keep welding.
Lots of ups and downs in that trade.
Ironically, others promise a gold mine but give you the shaft!
I watch you guys work all the time in building. My optimism is that you all are overpaid lol
Local 21 is the lowest in the iuec per there cost of living in there area. Other locals make more but dfw has exploded in cost of living the past 15yrs and isnt up to par. Most members would agree with me
They are also the slowest and the worse to deal with, especially if you're trying to join their union.
Naval Station Norfolk - biggest navy base on earth; elevators in numerous buildings are always broken. Ppl have gotten hurt from elevators literally falling, old workers either take the stairs or stay home. NAVFAC (Naval Facilities) has a team of elevator mechanics who can’t fix shit!!! I don’t know what they earn - but they don’t deserve it.
Naval station Norfolk is a dump that’s why.
*tradesmen who go out in their own make the most
Not when that piece of elevator equipment fails and your being sued for something that might not have been your fault....You'd have been better off to be a painter then🤣