Elevator Constructor at International Union of Elevator Constructors Local
at International Union of Elevator Constructors Local in Memphis, TN
About This Program
The International Union of Elevator Constructors Local in Memphis, TN sponsors a union Elevator Constructor apprenticeship through its Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee. This JATC program is administered cooperatively by labor and management to train apprentices in all phases of elevator construction work. Apprentices are paid from the moment they begin training.
Running four years in duration, the program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside journeyman elevator constructors, learning to install, inspect, service, repair, and modernize elevators, escalators, and related vertical transportation systems. Classroom instruction addresses electrical systems, hydraulic principles, mechanical components, safety codes, and schematic interpretation.
Graduates earn journeyman status through the union and are fully qualified to work independently in the elevator trade across a wide range of projects. The IUEC affiliation in Memphis provides access to union wages, benefits, and a professional network that supports career development throughout Tennessee 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.
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
Trade School
Licensing in Tennessee
Elevator Constructors in Tennessee are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance, Division of Fire Prevention, Elevator and Amusement Device Safety Program.
View full Tennesseelicensing requirements →Reviews
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