Elevator Constructor at GEAPS Grain Elevator and Processing Society
at GEAPS Grain Elevator and Processing Society in Golden Valley, MN
About This Program
GEAPS — the Grain Elevator and Processing Society — sponsors a registered elevator constructor apprenticeship program based in Golden Valley, MN. This non-union program is designed for individuals interested in working with grain handling and processing equipment, offering a structured path into a specialized segment of the elevator construction and maintenance field.
The program is time-based and runs for four years, incorporating 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain practical experience with grain elevator systems, conveying equipment, processing machinery, and facility maintenance. Technical instruction addresses mechanical systems, electrical fundamentals, safety protocols, and industry-specific operational standards. Apprentices are paid throughout the program.
Upon completion, graduates are prepared to work as qualified elevator constructors within the grain and agribusiness industry. GEAPS membership and program completion signal a strong professional foundation for careers in grain facility operations, equipment maintenance, and related agricultural processing roles across the country.
Wage & Training
Journeyman Wage
$47
OJT Hours
8,000
RTI Hours
576
Duration
4 years
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.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Elevator Constructor
Apprenticeship
Trade School
Licensing in Minnesota
Elevator Constructors in Minnesota are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, Elevator Safety Section.
View full Minnesotalicensing requirements →Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
See something wrong? Help us improve this page.