Been an elevator mechanic for over 20 years. I have had a great time and made alot of money and friends. I worked alot of different construction jobs before then and told myself that if I would have to work hard my whole life why not find the job that pays the most. Best decision I ever made. Local 10 whoop whoop!
I’m going to become one I have been doing electricity for 4 years and studying for 2. I just need to finish my school I guess and start setting up for applying
As a retired elevator service guy on a pension, this is very accurate. Don’t forget you can be an inspector or Neiep teacher after retirement. I did 800 hours overtime for 10 years, let me tell you I made a lot of money and it made my pension bigger. But it is a dangerous job also, so be safe.
Been in the IUEC 20+ years. Good video. Only thing I’d correct you on is saying we don’t really have a service department and that installers do the service. All the major company’s have a construction, modernization, repair, and a service department. Service and repair is what keeps the company rolling when the economy slows down.
I’ve been in the IUEC local 1 out of NY/NY for the last 8 years. You absolutely have a service department. That literally our unions trade bread and butter. There’s 4 departments NE. New equipment/construction Modernization Repair Service/maintenance Everyone plays there role. I’m in service. I’m not installing an elevator on Monday then going answering calls on a service route on Tuesday. Unless you work for a small Shop where you’re wearing all hats. No disrespect. But I don’t see how that is possible. I work for Otis in NJ. Only thing I can say which I think is bullshit. They try saying there is no such thing as repair anymore. It’s 2 man service. But then ask a real service mechanic when is the last time He’s done a 2:1 rope job on a high rise car? Never Bc repair does repair. Construction does construction. Service does service.
Your adjuster is troubleshooting the car before the FA is approved and fine tuning it. I know constructors that don’t even have a meter or know how to read one of they did have it. They are stacking rails and making jumps.
Yeah , I had a friend that worked in a small town . We both started in Houston during the big construction boom early 1980’s; went our separate ways shortly after. We compared notes a lot ; during the years. Yes small town maintenance guys (from different companies )would drink coffee in the morning together before work. And help each other out unofficially…. Big cities rarely ever congregate with the other companies workers ( except for Union meetings). But in comparing notes . Depending upon the size of a company. Would dictate how they use their people… Smaller companies would use their construction people more in the repair side( of service and repair). The big Company I’ve worked for.. you had a department that was strictly for repair.. You didn’t have folks going into it for a week from construction. Now if you had a repair crew that needed an extra pair of hands on a route man’s job. Yeah that route man would give a hand. And of course, smaller companies may not have had a superintendent dedicated to repair . Or service repair… so that superintendent may be using his people to his best advantage. We could get disagreeing into the details. But I think we would all agree that elevator men were ‘on the whole ‘ were a bit different . One word would be ‘hungry’. The guys I knew in Houston were HUNGRY for the work , the job , yeah the pay. They were there early sitting on their job box a half hour before work started. And if their helper came in only on time , they would ‘ride him’ that day . Or if he came in hung over. He was really road hard ( he would be the one working in the chainfall on the I beam.) Few years later after I go into maintenance and was talking to a plumber on a soccer field… he mentioned that he didn’t think I was like the other elevator man because they were a bit full of themselves… and I set him straight… to do the things that we had to do whether it was physically challenging, ( working in /around danger ( a lot like riding a motorcycle in Houston traffic) ) OR IN TROUBLESHOOTING PLAYING FIVE CHESS GAMES AGAINST A GREAT OPPONENT. It was a ‘mind ‘thing you had to know you were going to do the work. You had to have an ‘can do’. But with anything it could get excessive. Most had to have that swagger ,, now there were exceptions to the rule .. the best bosses and the best co workers I admired and got along with were quiet humble guys. You wouldn’t have guessed they were the best troubleshooters… or the best bosses . They certainly were the ‘best people’. ( reminds me about the beginning of ‘TRUE GRIT’) The work wasn’t for the faint hearted . For me I enjoyed the ‘every day was an adventure - juggling calls- being proud of a well tuned route of elevators. My father worked two jobs AND lots of overtime on his main job. I vowed that I would know my family. Also I knew how much a A hole I was when I was lacking sleep. (as most guys were that I may have had to help during the week when they were on call) ( so many times I had walk away from them and give them a break) . Anyways, I lucked out that there were people willing to take my call and very rarely did I ever have to take any. Yeah, it’s a trade-off… I am enjoying a very comfortable retirement, even though I didn’t get all that time in. I live a simple life. So my needs are easily satisfied. I don’t have a cabin in the mountains or on the coast. But then I don’t have to take care of another place. The whole WOW factor of money for a blue-collar worker is interesting, but there’s the ‘fit’ to that job.. if it wouldn’t have worked out for me not taking ‘call’ well I might been doing something else.
Just finishing up my first month in Local 1 NYC. The EIAT test was very easy with even the slightest of prep. The interview is where it is your time to shine. Bring anything and everything that can validate your work ethic and history. This is where you make an impression and get a ranking.
Congratulations on passing your journeymans test. I was in the IUEC local 1 Nyc. Retired after 33 years in the industry. Was a great brotherhood with a great pension, benefits, annuity, etc. Stick it out because it's not always easy ( long hours, sometimes dangerous work, etc.). Welcome to the industry and work safe brother.
I am the head of the maintenance department for a mid sized city near DFW. The elevator phone calls are the most painful to make because I need them here yesterday and it’s going to HURT come billing time. I imagine that is a good thing for the techs paycheck 😊 Every tech I’ve talked to loves it. Some are second or third generation.
I’m in nyc. Elevator installer/mechanic is all Union and all great. Bridge painter is also a pretty good job as it’s seasonal with full year pay and benefits.
Just retired IUEC local #1 NYC after 33 years as a maintenance technician. Was a rewarding career and a great Brotherhood. Pension is great and the benefits are best in the construction industry. Can be a dangerous career. I know a number of people personally either killed or maimed. If in the industry please work safe and God bless.
Thanks for the info. Were you in construction or service sides? Asking for my son. Were those deaths a consequence of “shit happens” or negligence / mistakes / carelessness etc? Would appreciate any more insight.
Retired Elevatorman They have a 5 year school program that will teach that. As an instructor I've taught Certified Welding and Advanced Electronics and troubleshooting. As far as applying goes, any mechanical, electrical or hydraulic thing helps. Still, you will go to school for 5 years and sit for the Mechanics Test. On the first try the passing rate nation wide is 53%. We don't give the card away. @@edwingarcia3250
Retired after 40 years in elevators. Good union, good money, highly specialized. Today’s techs have skills us older guys never had. It’s all about computers and trouble codes, rather than meters and contacts..
My Dad was in elevators for almost 40 years. It’s a very interesting job. He taught me different things about elevators and how they work. He retired from working on them almost six years ago, and now he works as an elevator inspector.
@@JohnAckerman31 same here. My family basically owns the most accounts in rhode island and Massachusetts. The elevator field changes lives. Btw non of my family never went to college. If you own a elevator business and compete with companies for accounts, your business is worth millions.
@WoodSmith IUEC local 18 here brother I appreciate you for saying and recognizing that today's generation of elevator mechanics definitely have a different and more advanced set of skills than our past generation of brothers, just like the elevator, we advance and evolve... and more importantly, we'll be here for centuries to come with the same mindset as those brothers who pioneer this trade, always giving the world a lift! 🍻 cheers enjoy your retirement well deserved 👏💪 🧑🔧👨🏭
Was an elevator 38 years, and I told many electricians as other trades that they should think about were they want to be in 20 years. I am retired and the last year I was making over 100k a year no ot. Now make a nice pension.
Get in young and stick with it. Tough to get in without the buddy system but possible. I was the operations mgr of a large elevator co for many years, interesting and demanding career. And very lucrative. We billed $425 first hour for 2 man service call. Double after hours, triple weekends.
Florida trades and the unions kind of stink down here, they will keep you as a apprentice 2-4 times longer then the 3-4 year standard time to get your journeyman’s, much better to find a local master/contractor that will teach you and train you then sign your journeymen hours. Unions here make you sure you can’t start your own company in the future, it’s a big trap.
Look at it like this, in Florida only about 5% of all construction work is union. They’re a right to work state. From WV up to NY or Oregon out to Cali it’s more like 70% of all construction is union. My pops is out of ibew local 332 before they merged into local 728 and always drilled into me that if your going to go union, move north or west if your not going to join the elevator constructors.
one thing you missed is that after you finish your training as a elevator technician, you need to take a test with the state. you need a license that you pass with the state in order to completely finish your training/ apprenticeship.
I recently got into the elevator union after 12 years of being a gas fitter which was great to me and still gives me side work. Where I am you have to be related to or know someone with credibilty to get in, still took me over two years. I took a pay cut for now especially giving up my work van with gas prices today and now having to pay dues but I dont regret it most guys are making 140-160k w (Canadian) after 4-5 years with a company vehical and the benifits/pension are the best around. I have alot less stress without the sales pressure and dealing with customers in there homes everyday. Most of the guys I work with are great, I've been told it's as dangerous as you make it, hand injures seem to be the most commen, we haven't had anyone die on the job here that i know of in a long time we take lots of measure to do things safely and go home at the end of the day, accidents do happen but that's life.
A lot of elevator companies have pilot programs for new employees where they ride along and get hands on training so they have a good idea what goes on in the trade. Usually they do this for ~6 months and then the employees go into the areas they applied for ie: salesperson, draftsman etc.
I just started electrical training (residential). Thanks so much for your content you put out. Its always good to have the information for the plumbing side. Not to do work in plumbing. To do work with plumbers.
I’ve been an elevator trade for 18 years. I would say to new apprentices this…. We have a journeyman’s license. Not a stay at home license. Be prepared to travel. But, I don’t have to worry about my bills. Also, prepare your family for the travel. My wife took care of the house and everything while I was have gun will travel part of my career. (Otis sent me to install elevators in places no one wanted to install an elevator.)
I was in the IUEC for 14 years I was a service and repair plumber before getting into the elevator trade iam retired, but I went back to plumbing I specialize in hi end remodel work still love plumbing
I did b2b insurance for a lot of trades. There were 3 machines shops closing in the next 2 years cause they couldn't find someone to take over. Others had virtually no plan for the business in are they died. I'm looking at this now
Been through the interview and test. I got ranked 4th out of everyone at the time but I came from ten years as an aircraft mechanic and have a four year degree and killed the interview. So my hands brain and experience got me hired on within a few weeks as an elevator mechanic. Working mods
been a machinist for 16 years, applied back in 2019 and was one of 2100 applicants with no family in the business, needless to say i was not selected lmao
The Bureau Labor of Statistics as of 2022 has Elevator Installers and Repairers at an average salary of $99K a year. This could be the first construction trade on it’s way to earn a median average of $100K annually in about a year or two and that’s not considering overtime.
Just went through the union process. Out of 2000+ that tested only 200 get in. After that the 200 go through an interview & are placed based on how we did in the tool recognition & interview. I landed #12 out of 200. An call outs in the elevator union are few and far between. This was last November, when I checked to see the placement they were on #3 😂. Non union doesn’t have the pension or annuity, but still has a pretty nice pay rate 😅
My family has 3 elevator companies in Massachusetts and rhode island. All i can tell you is you want to become an apprentice. 72$+ an hour. Our highest payed apprentice is working for 100$+ reasons are because the field is loosing hirable , knowledgable workers. But if your a mario guy be my guest. The choice is yours… both amazing fields Its easier to become a plumber. Not everyone gets in the elevator union.
depending on your location it can be a lot of driving and sometimes over night travel and safety would be the biggest cons of the elevator trade even more than other commercial construction trades
I’m third Generation in the IUEC and proud of it but it still took me ten years to get in. You have to wait for a hiring list to restart once every 2+ years then pass the test (If you’ve worked with tools it’s easy) then score good enough on your oral test (Based on past experience and certificates) to get ranked high on the new hire list (Score out of 100 then put in order and hired as the company’s need people one at a time. If work is slow they don’t hire we picked up 10 people in 6 years in Vegas with the 08 crash). THEN once you win the lottery and get in you have to have work be steady enough to keep you working. I’ve been laid off twice because of Covid shutting everything down. We get paid well into the 6 figures and have great benefits but like they tell us it really is like winning the lottery to get in and if your an idiot you’ll wash out fast. It’s not an easy job both mentally and physically. My brother is a carpenter and has worked stead and got in after 1 month of waiting so pros and cons.
Well one of them lays pipe but the other one rides her up and down with a crew of other guys so I don't really know... Which one does she prefer to call when she's by herself?... You don't call out guys to fix elevators unless it's at a commercial building or a residential apartment the suburbs unless you're a millionaire aren't going to have elevators.
#1 multi employer pension plan in the world. Health benefits that are mind blowing. And we ARE the highest paid blue collar trade in the North America/Canada. Those are the facts. Proud IUEC member
@@toolbag8449 Don't wear jeans to your interview. Wear a SUIT - be perceived as someone who takes this opportunity seriously. There will be a bunch of guys there wearing workwear or casual clothes and you might feel silly. Remind yourself that the overwhelming majority of those getting interviewed will not be extended the opportunity.
My neighbors son-in-law worked for Otis Elevator. They also installed and maintained escalators. He was killed servicing an escalator. So, there's that aspect to consider. The tag-out/lockout rules weren't big at the time, I'm not sure if that would have made a difference or not.
Elevator construction Department installing elevators not too difficult everything is laid out for you working at a service maintenance department little more difficult and challenging
Sir what would be the best way to use veteran military benefits to set me up for success directly into Elevator Mechanic/Technician/Installer Industry?
Hello, I am Spanish and I am working in France. I am an elevator maintenance technician. I wonder if it is possible to travel to the United States to work in elevators. It Will be possible to find a job quickly or it will be difficult ? I speak Spanish, French and English at 70%
I love the IUEC but, if you are new to construction and/ or working from heights it will be a revelation. We will teach you everything, but you will have to show up early, work hard, and listen/ follow the instructions you are told. Not respecting the many hazards that you will face daily can end in your life, or if you are lucky a stern cursing. The latter of which you will most definitely become familiar with!
@rileylancour9105 I took it today, I think I bombed the math, ughhhhh Wow 5 months is a long time, they told us well know whether we pass or fail in 2 weeks, if pass then we'll get the interview
@@alexreddragon88 yeah the fractions are definitely scary hopefully you pass! Make sure you’re ready for interview lol it’s pretty nerve racking if you’re not ready. They ask situational questions. One of them for me was “what’s something you did that you didn’t want to and what did you learn from that”
@rileylancour9105 I'm not even thinking about the interview until I'm told I passed the test, otherwise back to study and I'll try once more at a different location, so u passed the written test ?
I'm sorry I barely discovered you but that being said I have been on the binge of all your videos and I got to say you are awesome I love your videos keep up the good work
Elevator tech is also a MUCHH more dangerous job because of the electrical equipment involved. How many plumbers have I know that got killed on the job? Zero. How many elevator techs? Hint....the answer isn't zero
They tell us that we are the only trade on site that deals with all 4 lethal risks, Struck by, Caught between, Falls and Electrocution. I’m third gen in the trade and we’ve lost a few friends over the years.
I’m moving to Chicago in September I don’t really have much experience besides 2 years on the railroad any suggestions where to start? Is there even an apprenticeship in Chicago ?
Thanks Roger. Can you provide any advice on joining the barbers union . You don't see those union cards to much anymore . That day in Dallas back in 1963.
@@RogerWakefield i’m currently a junior going to a trade school in the Akron Ohio area, after high school im going to move to cincinnati ohio with my girlfriend, so how much in the Cincinnati Ohio area?
30 to 35 grand is about what an apprentice will get their first 2 years. After that the sky is the limit because in my State you can get your license after 2 years. Remember most States allow you to sit for a Unlimited License(many think it's called a Master, but its not) after 4 years of experience or a set amount of hours. Some states require you to get a Journeymen to get an Unlimited or Limited Plumbing License. In my State it's 2 years, or 4,000 hours, and no Journeymen is required.
@@naterzzz4021 Hey! I'm in Cincinnati! Going through Local 392 (they do plumbing, pipefitting and HVAC), you can expect about $30K a year in your first two years, but could earn more like the other guy mentioned. I had a paper from Local 392 with the minimum wages for each year, but I can't find it at the moment. But once you're in your third year, the pay increases are crazy, and even higher once you get your master license.
@@gregsdates , no idea what you are talking about there bub. Yes a sump pump sits in a pit in the elevator shaft. By code it has an alarm if it detects oil while pumping.
@@johnbrzenksforearm8295 That alarm in the pit has a float in the sump crock. It detects when the sump pump has failed, not the slim chance that there is oil in the crock...
@gregsdates I'm in the elevator trade, and there is a sensor in the sump crock called an oil minder by code. Not sure why you are climbing all over this guy about it, he is right. There is oil in hydraulic elevator pits all the time, it is no slim chance. The secondary float you are referring to exists within the scavenger pump to prevent oil and water mixing.
I work 2,5 years now as a technician. Started with no experience at all. I know a little more know. But there are so many different models to maintain or to solve problems. And i have problems with my boss and co-workers. They don't help me as before when i get stranded with something. Being standby every 3 weeks is also energy draining. Continues management changes.. I am tired of this job. I can start as a appliance technician. But it's again starting from 0 because i don't know how to solve problems in washing machines etc.. 6 weeks training, but it's not enough.
@@RogerWakefield I love the video of you going solo using the M18 pipe threader on that gas meter, learning from the master! You gave me the confidence to go after my journeyman license and possibly a masters! Much ❤️
I’m a 2nd year apprentice and I can confirm this info is true. It’s very difficult to get in. Took me about 4 years. Once your in be ready and save money because you will be laid off or told to sit tight a couple times. As in apprentice you will start in new construction and understand that it will be very dangerous work so hopefully you’re not scared of heights. Overall the highest paying job on a construction site. There are 3rd and 4th year apprentices making more than superintendents. Some apprentices make 6 figures. I’ve met foreman that make 200k plus. But the job is brutal physically and very dangerous but definitely worth it.
@@TheKonnoisseur11 No physical requirements per say to enter the field but the job itself is very physically demanding. Elevator parts are very very heavy and sometimes the only way to maneuver them is by hand. And dangers all around from working on extreme heights in an elevator shaft. But safety is pressed a lot and practiced by most.
What do you recommend to help improve my chances of getting a apprenticeship? I’m 17 years old and about to graduate high school. Currently working as a roofer
@@gabrielwilliams5387 I would recommend calling your local union hall and see when they will be hiring. If they are not hiring yet I recommend getting some experience into construction. You can also get into the electricians union do that for a couple years and then apply because that will put you at the top of the hiring list when you do apply for elevator union. If you have good mechanical skills and understand what each tool is and what it does and especially if you know how to use a measuring tape it will help you a lot as a new apprentice.
My advice for getting in the elevator trade is if you don't have a family member in don't even bother. If you have a family member in the trade and are good enough to pass a written and verbal test keep your mouth shut your entire probation period. Which is a year. Don't talk about your favorite anything and dam sure don't bring up your political views. You have to make friends with the people you work with or they will make your life a living hell. I've seen guys come from 2 or 3 States away staying in a hotel at night and get treated like absolute dog s***. They try their best to hang in there but ultimately they get fired before their probation period ends. You need protection from a family member to get in and even then people will still try to fire you during your 1st year so they can have another recruitment and try to get their son or their Uncle or whoever in the trade. I myself learned this hard lesson. I got fired 3 weeks before my year for literally no reason. I filed for unemployment They tried to fight it but since they didn't have a reason I won. This was during covid so it was fun trying to find another job that starts with pay over $20hr. Since the Union and the companies are allowing this to happen It's only gonna make them worse. All the good elevator guys are about to retire. And the stuff they put in nowadays is garbage.
Hey Roger. I recently got a call to fix the lights in an elevator that had a problem with the lights that were out. 2 four foot fluorescent lamps that stopped working. Found out that no power was going to the ballasts. Yes! Ballasts x 2. The elevator company came out and found a beaker was shut off and they fixed it. But they refused to put 2 new lamps in! Said it was not in their SOW! How cheap is that?!
They don’t make the rules. That’s sparky work and elevator technicians respect rights to SOW. Kinda sad it took an elevator guy to find a breaker turned off. 🤣 you should focus on that instead of hating on them.
Not to mention it might be in the service contract you signed with the elevator company to be replaced. Typically we don't cover cab lighting because there's so many different bulbs.
The difference between a plumber and an elevator technician is plumbers sometimes have shitty days and an elevator technician has their ups and downs.
🤣💀🤣
Lol
Lol
Plumbers don’t die on the job….
Been an elevator mechanic for over 20 years. I have had a great time and made alot of money and friends. I worked alot of different construction jobs before then and told myself that if I would have to work hard my whole life why not find the job that pays the most. Best decision I ever made. Local 10 whoop whoop!
I’m going to become one I have been doing electricity for 4 years and studying for 2. I just need to finish my school I guess and start setting up for applying
@rodrigolopez9970 Do it. It's hard work but the benefits outweigh the sweat. Best of luck to you
May I ask where you work? I live near Seattle Washington which has a lot of tall buildings so I think it wouldn’t be bad to work here.
TKE in Washington DC. DMV.
I'm about to get on 2ith local 8 in San Francisco
As a retired elevator service guy on a pension, this is very accurate. Don’t forget you can be an inspector or Neiep teacher after retirement.
I did 800 hours overtime for 10 years, let me tell you I made a lot of money and it made my pension bigger. But it is a dangerous job also, so be safe.
Do u think being an electrician or plumber would be better than elevator?
How dangerous is it
Mr sir what should I do hvac plumbing or elevator service
How do you get into this field?
I have 2.5 years experience from Canada as an apprentice but im moved from Canada
Your editor is killing it
He is awesome. Best I’ve ever seen.
Been in the IUEC 20+ years. Good video. Only thing I’d correct you on is saying we don’t really have a service department and that installers do the service. All the major company’s have a construction, modernization, repair, and a service department. Service and repair is what keeps the company rolling when the economy slows down.
You mean “service” department lol
I’ve been in the IUEC local 1 out of NY/NY for the last 8 years. You absolutely have a service department. That literally our unions trade bread and butter. There’s 4 departments
NE. New equipment/construction
Modernization
Repair
Service/maintenance
Everyone plays there role. I’m in service. I’m not installing an elevator on Monday then going answering calls on a service route on Tuesday. Unless you work for a small
Shop where you’re wearing all hats. No disrespect. But I don’t see how that is possible. I work for Otis in NJ. Only thing I can say which I think is bullshit. They try saying there is no such thing as repair anymore. It’s 2 man service. But then ask a real service mechanic when is the last time
He’s done a 2:1 rope job on a high rise car? Never Bc repair does repair. Construction does construction. Service does service.
Your adjuster is troubleshooting the car before the FA is approved and fine tuning it. I know constructors that don’t even have a meter or know how to read one of they did have it. They are stacking rails and making jumps.
Yeah , I had a friend that worked in a small town . We both started in Houston during the big construction boom early 1980’s; went our separate ways shortly after.
We compared notes a lot ; during the years. Yes small town maintenance guys (from different companies )would drink coffee in the morning together before work. And help each other out unofficially….
Big cities rarely ever congregate with the other companies workers ( except for Union meetings).
But in comparing notes . Depending upon the size of a company. Would dictate how they use their people… Smaller companies would use their construction people more in the repair side( of service and repair).
The big Company I’ve worked for.. you had a department that was strictly for repair.. You didn’t have folks going into it for a week from construction.
Now if you had a repair crew that needed an extra pair of hands on a route man’s job. Yeah that route man would give a hand.
And of course, smaller companies may not have had a superintendent dedicated to repair . Or service repair… so that superintendent may be using his people to his best advantage. We could get disagreeing into the details.
But I think we would all agree that elevator men were ‘on the whole ‘ were a bit different .
One word would be ‘hungry’.
The guys I knew in Houston were HUNGRY for the work , the job , yeah the pay. They were there early sitting on their job box a half hour before work started. And if their helper came in only on time , they would ‘ride him’ that day . Or if he came in hung over. He was really road hard ( he would be the one working in the chainfall on the I beam.)
Few years later after I go into maintenance and was talking to a plumber on a soccer field… he mentioned that he didn’t think I was like the other elevator man because they were a bit full of themselves… and I set him straight… to do the things that we had to do whether it was physically challenging, ( working in /around danger ( a lot like riding a motorcycle in Houston traffic) )
OR IN TROUBLESHOOTING PLAYING FIVE CHESS GAMES AGAINST A GREAT OPPONENT. It was a ‘mind ‘thing you had to know you were going to do the work. You had to have an ‘can do’. But with anything it could get excessive.
Most had to have that swagger ,, now there were exceptions to the rule .. the best bosses and the best co workers I admired and got along with were quiet humble guys. You wouldn’t have guessed they were the best troubleshooters… or the best bosses . They certainly were the ‘best people’. ( reminds me about the beginning of ‘TRUE GRIT’)
The work wasn’t for the faint hearted .
For me I enjoyed the ‘every day was an adventure - juggling calls- being proud of a well tuned route of elevators.
My father worked two jobs AND lots of overtime on his main job. I vowed that I would know my family. Also I knew how much a A hole I was when I was lacking sleep. (as most guys were that I may have had to help during the week when they were on call) ( so many times I had walk away from them and give them a break) .
Anyways, I lucked out that there were people willing to take my call and very rarely did I ever have to take any. Yeah, it’s a trade-off…
I am enjoying a very comfortable retirement, even though I didn’t get all that time in. I live a simple life. So my needs are easily satisfied. I don’t have a cabin in the mountains or on the coast. But then I don’t have to take care of another place.
The whole WOW factor of money for a blue-collar worker is interesting, but there’s the ‘fit’ to that job.. if it wouldn’t have worked out for me not taking ‘call’ well I might been doing something else.
Just finishing up my first month in Local 1 NYC. The EIAT test was very easy with even the slightest of prep. The interview is where it is your time to shine. Bring anything and everything that can validate your work ethic and history. This is where you make an impression and get a ranking.
Just got sworn into local 8, congrats brother
Congratulations on passing your journeymans test. I was in the IUEC local 1 Nyc. Retired after 33 years in the industry. Was a great brotherhood with a great pension, benefits, annuity, etc. Stick it out because it's not always easy ( long hours, sometimes dangerous work, etc.). Welcome to the industry and work safe brother.
Any advice I’am about to go there 😅
@@Koro489 what do you mean exactly? You’re going for the test/interview or you’re about to start with Local 1?
I am the head of the maintenance department for a mid sized city near DFW. The elevator phone calls are the most painful to make because I need them here yesterday and it’s going to HURT come billing time. I imagine that is a good thing for the techs paycheck 😊
Every tech I’ve talked to loves it. Some are second or third generation.
I’m in nyc. Elevator installer/mechanic is all Union and all great. Bridge painter is also a pretty good job as it’s seasonal with full year pay and benefits.
Just retired IUEC local #1 NYC after 33 years as a maintenance technician. Was a rewarding career and a great Brotherhood. Pension is great and the benefits are best in the construction industry. Can be a dangerous career. I know a number of people personally either killed or maimed. If in the industry please work safe and God bless.
What are some electrical courses and welding certs I can get to stand out when applying?
You always have work because you work on Non-Union jobsites. So much for Brotherhood, right?
Thanks for the info. Were you in construction or service sides? Asking for my son. Were those deaths a consequence of “shit happens” or negligence / mistakes / carelessness etc? Would appreciate any more insight.
Retired Elevatorman They have a 5 year school program that will teach that. As an instructor I've taught Certified Welding and Advanced Electronics and troubleshooting. As far as applying goes, any mechanical, electrical or hydraulic thing helps.
Still, you will go to school for 5 years and sit for the Mechanics Test. On the first try the passing rate nation wide is 53%. We don't give the card away. @@edwingarcia3250
Retired after 40 years in elevators. Good union, good money, highly specialized. Today’s techs have skills us older guys never had. It’s all about computers and trouble codes, rather than meters and contacts..
My Dad was in elevators for almost 40 years. It’s a very interesting job. He taught me different things about elevators and how they work. He retired from working on them almost six years ago, and now he works as an elevator inspector.
@@JohnAckerman31 same here. My family basically owns the most accounts in rhode island and Massachusetts. The elevator field changes lives. Btw non of my family never went to college. If you own a elevator business and compete with companies for accounts, your business is worth millions.
I’d much rather learn about all that older stuff, those Dovers and Montgomery machines are really cool
@WoodSmith IUEC local 18 here brother I appreciate you for saying and recognizing that today's generation of elevator mechanics definitely have a different and more advanced set of skills than our past generation of brothers, just like the elevator, we advance and evolve... and more importantly, we'll be here for centuries to come with the same mindset as those brothers who pioneer this trade, always giving the world a lift! 🍻 cheers enjoy your retirement well deserved 👏💪 🧑🔧👨🏭
@@groyper6567Wow. Isn’t the industry highly monopolized?
Was an elevator 38 years, and I told many electricians as other trades that they should think about were they want to be in 20 years. I am retired and the last year I was making over 100k a year no ot. Now make a nice pension.
Get in young and stick with it. Tough to get in without the buddy system but possible. I was the operations mgr of a large elevator co for many years, interesting and demanding career. And very lucrative. We billed $425 first hour for 2 man service call. Double after hours, triple weekends.
That’s a true statement for any trade. Except for the billing rate.
Florida trades and the unions kind of stink down here, they will keep you as a apprentice 2-4 times longer then the 3-4 year standard time to get your journeyman’s, much better to find a local master/contractor that will teach you and train you then sign your journeymen hours. Unions here make you sure you can’t start your own company in the future, it’s a big trap.
The trap is working for a rat elevator company. You don't know anything about unions.
Look at it like this, in Florida only about 5% of all construction work is union. They’re a right to work state. From WV up to NY or Oregon out to Cali it’s more like 70% of all construction is union. My pops is out of ibew local 332 before they merged into local 728 and always drilled into me that if your going to go union, move north or west if your not going to join the elevator constructors.
one thing you missed is that after you finish your training as a elevator technician, you need to take a test with the state. you need a license that you pass with the state in order to completely finish your training/ apprenticeship.
Not all states require that
How is it beneficial if your being laid off
I recently got into the elevator union after 12 years of being a gas fitter which was great to me and still gives me side work. Where I am you have to be related to or know someone with credibilty to get in, still took me over two years. I took a pay cut for now especially giving up my work van with gas prices today and now having to pay dues but I dont regret it most guys are making 140-160k w (Canadian) after 4-5 years with a company vehical and the benifits/pension are the best around. I have alot less stress without the sales pressure and dealing with customers in there homes everyday. Most of the guys I work with are great, I've been told it's as dangerous as you make it, hand injures seem to be the most commen, we haven't had anyone die on the job here that i know of in a long time we take lots of measure to do things safely and go home at the end of the day, accidents do happen but that's life.
You are an elevator mechanic?
You think it’ll be easier too get into the union living in NYC?
Welcome to the industry brother. Work safe and you will have a great career. Again work safe.
FYI, plumbing, including gas lines are not permitted to be ran into elevator shafts or chimney shafts. This will be on your plumbing test.
Sumps
@@seth8982 , sumps are installed in the slab in a pit. I'm talking about running vents, gas lines, water lines into the shaft.
A lot of elevator companies have pilot programs for new employees where they ride along and get hands on training so they have a good idea what goes on in the trade. Usually they do this for ~6 months and then the employees go into the areas they applied for ie: salesperson, draftsman etc.
Wtf lmfao! What country is that? The Uk ?? Or china???
I just started electrical training (residential). Thanks so much for your content you put out. Its always good to have the information for the plumbing side. Not to do work in plumbing. To do work with plumbers.
I’ve been an elevator trade for 18 years. I would say to new apprentices this…. We have a journeyman’s license. Not a stay at home license. Be prepared to travel. But, I don’t have to worry about my bills. Also, prepare your family for the travel. My wife took care of the house and everything while I was have gun will travel part of my career. (Otis sent me to install elevators in places no one wanted to install an elevator.)
I was in the IUEC for 14 years I was a service and repair plumber before getting into the elevator trade iam retired, but I went back to plumbing I specialize in hi end remodel work still love plumbing
CNC Machining is also a trade that is in high demand. It also comes with a good amount of training. Just got into it and I'm loving it.
High in demand but super low pay and high turnover rate.
I did b2b insurance for a lot of trades. There were 3 machines shops closing in the next 2 years cause they couldn't find someone to take over. Others had virtually no plan for the business in are they died. I'm looking at this now
Im 20. A 2nd year apprentice union electrician now. Ive just applied to the elevator union near me. Super excited about it
That is awesome!
If a plumber's work is bad there is a leak. The repair is expensive. If an elevator tech does a bad job, somebody dies.
Exactly so if you’re going to be an elevator service tech, or repair and construction do the job right
How? The car falls?
plumbers can kill hundreds of people through negligence or just not knowing, it may not be so risky to themselves but it is not without its own risks
Been through the interview and test. I got ranked 4th out of everyone at the time but I came from ten years as an aircraft mechanic and have a four year degree and killed the interview. So my hands brain and experience got me hired on within a few weeks as an elevator mechanic. Working mods
My cousin had to wait a year and a half
been a machinist for 16 years, applied back in 2019 and was one of 2100 applicants with no family in the business, needless to say i was not selected lmao
The Bureau Labor of Statistics as of 2022 has Elevator Installers and Repairers at an average salary of $99K a year. This could be the first construction trade on it’s way to earn a median average of $100K annually in about a year or two and that’s not considering overtime.
Just went through the union process. Out of 2000+ that tested only 200 get in. After that the 200 go through an interview & are placed based on how we did in the tool recognition & interview. I landed #12 out of 200. An call outs in the elevator union are few and far between. This was last November, when I checked to see the placement they were on #3 😂. Non union doesn’t have the pension or annuity, but still has a pretty nice pay rate 😅
My family has 3 elevator companies in Massachusetts and rhode island. All i can tell you is you want to become an apprentice. 72$+ an hour. Our highest payed apprentice is working for 100$+ reasons are because the field is loosing hirable , knowledgable workers. But if your a mario guy be my guest. The choice is yours… both amazing fields
Its easier to become a plumber. Not everyone gets in the elevator union.
Mario guy?ha
Any advice how to get in here in california ? I’m open to go union or non union just to get experience
This was my exact choice I went with plumber and now I work for myself and I’m so damn happy I chose plumbing
You're living the dream, I love it!
Elevator technician have their ups and downs 🥸😂
It could also have it's ins and outs! :)
@@louisd95714 poor @Abanoub Melad ... so do you wanna tell him or should i?
@@25mfd I guess if you want to, go ahead :)
We also always get it up 🥴
@@abanoubmelad2919 it's a pun. Elevators go up and down. But the job does pay well
depending on your location it can be a lot of driving and sometimes over night travel and safety would be the biggest cons of the elevator trade even more than other commercial construction trades
Not worth the danger for Me in Elevator repair but much respect to those that do this-!
I’m third Generation in the IUEC and proud of it but it still took me ten years to get in. You have to wait for a hiring list to restart once every 2+ years then pass the test (If you’ve worked with tools it’s easy) then score good enough on your oral test (Based on past experience and certificates) to get ranked high on the new hire list (Score out of 100 then put in order and hired as the company’s need people one at a time. If work is slow they don’t hire we picked up 10 people in 6 years in Vegas with the 08 crash). THEN once you win the lottery and get in you have to have work be steady enough to keep you working. I’ve been laid off twice because of Covid shutting everything down. We get paid well into the 6 figures and have great benefits but like they tell us it really is like winning the lottery to get in and if your an idiot you’ll wash out fast. It’s not an easy job both mentally and physically. My brother is a carpenter and has worked stead and got in after 1 month of waiting so pros and cons.
how is the job bro? I'm planning to join an elevator technician course
Ten years!?! What area are you in? I’m going to apply in San Francisco in March.
@@jaboutt good luck in SF. They laid off most of their probies, 1st and 2nd years.
What are the physical demands? If you are trained as an elevator technician and can’t find a job what do you do?
@@TheKonnoisseur11 if you're Union, they'll get you a job but it could take days to months
Well one of them lays pipe but the other one rides her up and down with a crew of other guys so I don't really know...
Which one does she prefer to call when she's by herself?... You don't call out guys to fix elevators unless it's at a commercial building or a residential apartment the suburbs unless you're a millionaire aren't going to have elevators.
I’ve been laying pipe for many years.
@@RogerWakefield is your pipe threaded and do you cap it before installing... To avoid leakage?
I lay pipe (hydraulic lines) as well as ride her up and down at the same time.
I’m 31 years old and applications for Elevator Apprentice open up Feb 6 through my local Union. Wish me luck 🤞🏼
Where?
#1 multi employer pension plan in the world. Health benefits that are mind blowing.
And we ARE the highest paid blue collar trade in the North America/Canada. Those are the facts.
Proud IUEC member
Cream of the crop brother.
Got here as soon as I could. Looks like a great episode.
This one is wonderful!
SCULLY! Howdy partner!
Taking my test for the elevator constructors in September!
Good luck 👍
how is the job bro? I'm planning to join an elevator technician course
@@Adeline-vn3tm I ended up passing the test!!
@@toolbag8449 Don't wear jeans to your interview. Wear a SUIT - be perceived as someone who takes this opportunity seriously. There will be a bunch of guys there wearing workwear or casual clothes and you might feel silly. Remind yourself that the overwhelming majority of those getting interviewed will not be extended the opportunity.
@@couldntthinkofagoodnamesoi8357 I dressed very nicely, I did really really good on the interview and got an awesome ranking.
If your down 👉😉 for moving to new York to work on em then yeah it great also big cities have the most of em so willingness to move is a big one
My neighbors son-in-law worked for Otis Elevator. They also installed and maintained escalators. He was killed servicing an escalator. So, there's that aspect to consider. The tag-out/lockout rules weren't big at the time, I'm not sure if that would have made a difference or not.
It most definitely would have.
Escalators are very dangerous, basically giant meat grinders. Know of a guy that lost his foot working on one of these things.
How does an escalator kill you
Escalators are insanely dangerous! LOTO and informing the building and engineering is soooooo important.
Tag out / lock out?
Been plumber now I am elevator tech but all of my training school is HVACR EPA 608 universal cdertified . HVACR the king
Extremely Blessed to be an Elevator technician.
Elevator construction Department installing elevators not too difficult everything is laid out for you working at a service maintenance department little more difficult and challenging
If you were lucky enough to get in the union, could you own a cafe or pub on the side ?
Could you start this career in mid 40-50yrs
How does a person figure out if they have the aptitude to learn any trade?
I’m in the process of becoming one
Jim Rob....
@@TheKonnoisseur11 what are you trying to say
You basically have to know someone in the elevator union where I'm from or you're not getting in. Very small, tight knit group.
Sir what would be the best way to use veteran military benefits to set me up for success directly into Elevator Mechanic/Technician/Installer Industry?
Hello, I am Spanish and I am working in France.
I am an elevator maintenance technician.
I wonder if it is possible to travel to the United States to work in elevators.
It Will be possible to find a job quickly or it will be difficult ?
I speak Spanish, French and English at 70%
Who watched one video and watched him ever sense
Just passed my EIAT, would anyone have any insight on the questions they may ask?
Their job isn't as messy, but the elevator installers' jobs can also be much more dangerous
Shoooooot!!!
Been in for 2 years next month. I have 3.3 years served. Made over 100k my first year and the insurance is insane.
Nice. I’m trying to apply in San Francisco in March. How are you liking the work?
@@jaboutt good luck! High paid local out there
@@ansleydunn947 I’ve praying I get. How do you like the job?
What are the cons?
@@TheKonnoisseur11 probably the hours of work but it’s worth it
elevator work has its ups and downs.
Plumbing is crappy work.
@@RogerWakefield ironwork can be a grind.
Going to take class one and trucking but signed up for elevator tech hope to hear back
I love the IUEC but, if you are new to construction and/ or working from heights it will be a revelation. We will teach you everything, but you will have to show up early, work hard, and listen/ follow the instructions you are told. Not respecting the many hazards that you will face daily can end in your life, or if you are lucky a stern cursing. The latter of which you will most definitely become familiar with!
Your video is real accurate I got placed 63rd on the list after aptitude and interview and it’s been a grueling wait 😅
How long have u waited ? How did u do on the test ?
@@alexreddragon88 the test is pass fail. And I feel like I did well in the interview. I’ve been waiting for 5 months.
@rileylancour9105 I took it today, I think I bombed the math, ughhhhh
Wow 5 months is a long time, they told us well know whether we pass or fail in 2 weeks, if pass then we'll get the interview
@@alexreddragon88 yeah the fractions are definitely scary hopefully you pass! Make sure you’re ready for interview lol it’s pretty nerve racking if you’re not ready. They ask situational questions. One of them for me was “what’s something you did that you didn’t want to and what did you learn from that”
@rileylancour9105 I'm not even thinking about the interview until I'm told I passed the test, otherwise back to study and I'll try once more at a different location, so u passed the written test ?
ok so it turns out i went into the correct trade, now i just need to change the country so i no longer make a little over minimum wage.
I live not too far from Atlanta maybe 30 to 40 minutes so it doesn’t sound so bad
Elevator repair technician is a individual who does precision guess work based on unreliable data provided by those of questionable knowledge.
Lol! Our life as elevator mechanics!
A pension year has been 1700 hours ever since 2015 when I joined the trade.
I'm wanting to get started in one of these asap but not sire who earns more the elevator te ch or the plumber
And where to start
I'm sorry I barely discovered you but that being said I have been on the binge of all your videos and I got to say you are awesome I love your videos keep up the good work
Thanks you very much.
No worries! Which trade are you looking to get into after watching?
Elevator tech is also a MUCHH more dangerous job because of the electrical equipment involved. How many plumbers have I know that got killed on the job? Zero. How many elevator techs? Hint....the answer isn't zero
They tell us that we are the only trade on site that deals with all 4 lethal risks, Struck by, Caught between, Falls and Electrocution. I’m third gen in the trade and we’ve lost a few friends over the years.
i recently went threw this process and am on call to join the trade if anyone has any questions ask away
I’m moving to Chicago in September I don’t really have much experience besides 2 years on the railroad any suggestions where to start? Is there even an apprenticeship in Chicago ?
They both have their ups and downs
Local 19 IUEC proud
It is my end Goal to be an elevator technician, I already have some experience but just need to get in the union
Is there anything in Chicago to start ? I’m moving there in September and would love to get into the trade. Any information would be appreciated
Thanks Roger. Can you provide any advice on joining the barbers union . You don't see those union cards to much anymore . That day in Dallas back in 1963.
I've been working on elevators since 1984. we are the highest paid
roger, what would you say is a good income for a first year apprentice?
30 thousand a year or more depending on where you’re located… Where are you at?
@@RogerWakefield i’m currently a junior going to a trade school in the Akron Ohio area, after high school im going to move to cincinnati ohio with my girlfriend, so how much in the Cincinnati Ohio area?
30 to 35 grand is about what an apprentice will get their first 2 years. After that the sky is the limit because in my State you can get your license after 2 years. Remember most States allow you to sit for a Unlimited License(many think it's called a Master, but its not) after 4 years of experience or a set amount of hours. Some states require you to get a Journeymen to get an Unlimited or Limited Plumbing License. In my State it's 2 years, or 4,000 hours, and no Journeymen is required.
@@naterzzz4021 Hey! I'm in Cincinnati! Going through Local 392 (they do plumbing, pipefitting and HVAC), you can expect about $30K a year in your first two years, but could earn more like the other guy mentioned. I had a paper from Local 392 with the minimum wages for each year, but I can't find it at the moment. But once you're in your third year, the pay increases are crazy, and even higher once you get your master license.
@@The513Warning thanks man😄
You know tim martin?
Number 11 on the list right now I can’t wait!
Which local did you take the test for?
@@danieltristan2631 39,4,41
5:53 very well*.
Did i get the job?
well this was an unexpected video.
I've installed elevator shaft drainage pits numerous times. An alarm has to be installed in the pit just in case oil is detected.
BS! It’s not oil, it’s a failed sump pump.
@@gregsdates , no idea what you are talking about there bub. Yes a sump pump sits in a pit in the elevator shaft. By code it has an alarm if it detects oil while pumping.
@@johnbrzenksforearm8295 That alarm in the pit has a float in the sump crock. It detects when the sump pump has failed, not the slim chance that there is oil in the crock...
@gregsdates I'm in the elevator trade, and there is a sensor in the sump crock called an oil minder by code. Not sure why you are climbing all over this guy about it, he is right. There is oil in hydraulic elevator pits all the time, it is no slim chance. The secondary float you are referring to exists within the scavenger pump to prevent oil and water mixing.
Is a fire stopping installation a good trade??
As a stepping stone yes. There’s a lot of non union competition with that trade which means less pay/loss of work
I work 2,5 years now as a technician. Started with no experience at all. I know a little more know. But there are so many different models to maintain or to solve problems. And i have problems with my boss and co-workers. They don't help me as before when i get stranded with something. Being standby every 3 weeks is also energy draining. Continues management changes.. I am tired of this job.
I can start as a appliance technician. But it's again starting from 0 because i don't know how to solve problems in washing machines etc.. 6 weeks training, but it's not enough.
How does being on standby work?
I love you roger!
Thank you, I think…. What’s your favorite vidro?
@@RogerWakefield I love the video of you going solo using the M18 pipe threader on that gas meter, learning from the master! You gave me the confidence to go after my journeyman license and possibly a masters! Much ❤️
Do a video on fire sprinkler fitters
Elevator guys are the highest paid in San Diego too but good luck finding side jobs 😂
Won’t need side jobs if you get paid well right?
I been an Elevator Technician at Local 126 for 19 yrs. The best trade!
The few…the proud 🫡 🤣
I'm a plumber and I say definitely elevator installer is better
Coming from an elevator installer I say plumbing is better
I’m a 2nd year apprentice and I can confirm this info is true. It’s very difficult to get in. Took me about 4 years. Once your in be ready and save money because you will be laid off or told to sit tight a couple times. As in apprentice you will start in new construction and understand that it will be very dangerous work so hopefully you’re not scared of heights. Overall the highest paying job on a construction site. There are 3rd and 4th year apprentices making more than superintendents. Some apprentices make 6 figures. I’ve met foreman that make 200k plus. But the job is brutal physically and very dangerous but definitely worth it.
Thanks. What are the physical requirements and dangers?
@@TheKonnoisseur11 No physical requirements per say to enter the field but the job itself is very physically demanding. Elevator parts are very very heavy and sometimes the only way to maneuver them is by hand. And dangers all around from working on extreme heights in an elevator shaft. But safety is pressed a lot and practiced by most.
@@jeffreyrivera7118 thanks! What kind of Ppe do you use a harness for heights?
What do you recommend to help improve my chances of getting a apprenticeship? I’m 17 years old and about to graduate high school. Currently working as a roofer
@@gabrielwilliams5387 I would recommend calling your local union hall and see when they will be hiring. If they are not hiring yet I recommend getting some experience into construction. You can also get into the electricians union do that for a couple years and then apply because that will put you at the top of the hiring list when you do apply for elevator union. If you have good mechanical skills and understand what each tool is and what it does and especially if you know how to use a measuring tape it will help you a lot as a new apprentice.
My advice for getting in the elevator trade is if you don't have a family member in don't even bother. If you have a family member in the trade and are good enough to pass a written and verbal test keep your mouth shut your entire probation period. Which is a year. Don't talk about your favorite anything and dam sure don't bring up your political views. You have to make friends with the people you work with or they will make your life a living hell. I've seen guys come from 2 or 3 States away staying in a hotel at night and get treated like absolute dog s***. They try their best to hang in there but ultimately they get fired before their probation period ends. You need protection from a family member to get in and even then people will still try to fire you during your 1st year so they can have another recruitment and try to get their son or their Uncle or whoever in the trade. I myself learned this hard lesson. I got fired 3 weeks before my year for literally no reason. I filed for unemployment They tried to fight it but since they didn't have a reason I won. This was during covid so it was fun trying to find another job that starts with pay over $20hr. Since the Union and the companies are allowing this to happen It's only gonna make them worse. All the good elevator guys are about to retire. And the stuff they put in nowadays is garbage.
God damn that’s fucked up bruh. Where are you located where this is happening at? I feel sorry for you man
@@Ready4Whatever Oklahoma
I need your mustache when I grow up
It’s a great thing to have!!!
Pension year =1700 hours
i love your video's
Thank you. What do you like the most?
They might make decent money but they don’t get any side work!! They have to totally depend on there employer for work
We don't need a side job. We have a union one.
Why do you need a side job?
plumber vs gas techs!
Obviously plumbing is better
Hello Roger, once again great vid!
I've been busy lately, but congrats on passing the 350k mark so quick!
I am a elevator mechanic
Is there an age limit
There is not 😎 you can start at any age
wonder how many black elevator mechanics are permitted or accepted/brought into the trade?
You should communicate very well not communicate very good.
I'd say plumbers, they make sh*t work. 🙃
Hey Roger. I recently got a call to fix the lights in an elevator that had a problem with the lights that were out. 2 four foot fluorescent lamps that stopped working. Found out that no power was going to the ballasts. Yes! Ballasts x 2. The elevator company came out and found a beaker was shut off and they fixed it. But they refused to put 2 new lamps in! Said it was not in their SOW! How cheap is that?!
They don’t make the rules. That’s sparky work and elevator technicians respect rights to SOW. Kinda sad it took an elevator guy to find a breaker turned off. 🤣 you should focus on that instead of hating on them.
Not to mention it might be in the service contract you signed with the elevator company to be replaced. Typically we don't cover cab lighting because there's so many different bulbs.
Did the building use a non union to mod the cab.
Anybody can change a bulb, do you want an elevator technician to change it and charge you 400 dollors. Do it yourself it's cheeper
Is that a dog barking or a child crying in the background? Maybe a bird?