Elevator Constructor at Elevator Constructors JATC, Cleveland Lu 17

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at Elevator Constructors JATC, Cleveland Lu 17 in Cleveland, OH

About This Program

Elevator Constructors JATC Cleveland Local Union 17 in Cleveland, OH offers a union-affiliated (JATC) registered apprenticeship program for individuals pursuing a career in elevator construction. Representing the elevator trade in northeast Ohio, this IUEC-affiliated program provides paid training that combines extensive field work with comprehensive classroom instruction.

The four-year, time-based program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices develop skills in the installation, maintenance, repair, and modernization of elevators, escalators, and vertical transportation systems while working alongside experienced journeymen. Technical coursework covers electrical theory, hydraulic and mechanical systems, safety codes, and blueprint interpretation.

Graduates earn journeyman elevator constructor status and the benefits of IUEC Local 17 union membership, including collectively bargained wages, healthcare, and retirement benefits. Cleveland's diverse economy — spanning healthcare, manufacturing, and commercial real estate — supports ongoing construction activity and consistent demand for skilled elevator constructors throughout the region.

Wage & Training

Journeyman Wage

$47

BLS 2023

OJT Hours

8,000

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

RTI Hours

576

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Duration

4 years

Apprenticeship.gov 2025

Wage data is the national median for this occupation (BLS, May 2023), not specific to this program.

How to Apply

Elevator Constructor Career Outlook

National Median

$46.56/hr

~$96,844.8/yr

Apprentice Start

$25/hr

Earn while you learn

Job Outlook

Elevator constructor employment is projected to grow faster than average, driven by new high-rise construction, elevator modernization requirements, and building code changes mandating accessibility upgrades. The small size of the workforce relative to the installed base of equipment means strong job security. Aging elevator systems in major cities require ongoing modernization, creating sustained demand.

What to Expect as an Elevator Constructor Apprentice

Duration

4 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction

On-the-Job Training

~40 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (8,000 total hours)

Classroom Instruction

576 hours of related technical instruction (~144 hours/year)

Paid Training

You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress

Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.

This is a union-affiliated program. Union apprenticeships typically offer strong benefits packages, pension contributions, and structured career advancement through the local hall.

Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Elevator Constructor

Apprenticeship

Cost$0 (earn while you learn)
Duration4 years
Starting wage$25.00/hr
Journeyman wage$46.56/hr
CredentialJourneyman card

Trade School

Cost$5,000–$20,000+
Duration6–24 months
Starting wageEntry-level
ExperienceHands-on labs
CredentialCertificate / diploma

Licensing in Ohio

Elevator Constructors in Ohio are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Ohio Board of Building Standards, Elevator Safety Division.

View full Ohiolicensing requirements →

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