Elevator Constructor at International Union of Elevator Constructors, LU 12

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at International Union of Elevator Constructors, LU 12 in Kansas City, MO

About This Program

The International Union of Elevator Constructors Local Union 12 in Kansas City, MO administers a union-affiliated (JATC) registered apprenticeship for individuals pursuing a career in elevator construction. This paid program offers hands-on field experience combined with formal classroom instruction in one of Missouri's major metropolitan areas.

The four-year, time-based program includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Working under the supervision of experienced journeymen, apprentices learn to install, repair, and maintain elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and related equipment. Technical instruction covers electrical systems, hydraulic principles, mechanical components, safety codes, and blueprint reading.

Completion of the program leads to journeyman elevator constructor status, a credential that opens doors to high-skill positions across the construction and facilities maintenance industries. IUEC Local 12 union membership provides access to collectively bargained wages, comprehensive benefits, and a pension — making this a strong foundation for a lasting trade career.

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 Missouri

Elevator Constructors in Missouri are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, Division of Labor Standards, Elevator Safety Program.

View full Missourilicensing requirements →

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