Elevator Constructor at International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 39
at International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 39 in Jamestown, RI
About This Program
The International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 39 sponsors a union Elevator Constructor apprenticeship based in Jamestown, RI. This JATC-affiliated program is jointly managed by labor and management to deliver consistent, high-quality training aligned with national industry standards. Apprentices receive wages throughout the full duration of the program.
The apprenticeship lasts four years and requires 8,000 hours of on-the-job training alongside 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices gain field experience installing, maintaining, repairing, and modernizing elevators, escalators, and other vertical transportation equipment. Technical instruction covers electrical theory, hydraulics, mechanical systems, code requirements, and safety practices.
Upon completion, graduates achieve journeyman status with IUEC Local 39 and are recognized as fully qualified Elevator Constructors. Union membership provides access to negotiated wage scales, benefits, and job placement support, making this program a strong option for individuals seeking a skilled trades career with long-term stability in Rhode Island and the surrounding region.
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.
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
Trade School
Licensing in Rhode Island
Elevator Constructors in Rhode Island are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Division of Occupational Safety, Elevator Safety Program.
View full Rhode Islandlicensing requirements →Reviews
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