Elevator Constructor at Int'L Union Of Elevator Constructors Lu #14 JATC

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at Int'L Union Of Elevator Constructors Lu #14 JATC in Buffalo, NY

About This Program

The International Union of Elevator Constructors Local Union 14 JATC in Buffalo, NY offers a union-affiliated registered apprenticeship in the elevator construction trade. Serving western New York, this JATC program provides apprentices with paid, structured training that blends field experience with comprehensive classroom instruction under the IUEC's nationally recognized framework.

This time-based program runs for four years, with 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn to install, maintain, repair, and modernize elevators, escalators, and related vertical transportation systems. Technical coursework addresses electrical theory, hydraulic systems, mechanical components, safety and building codes, and blueprint reading skills.

Graduating as journeyman elevator constructors, completers gain full IUEC Local 14 union membership along with access to collectively bargained wages, healthcare, and pension benefits. Buffalo's construction sector — supported by ongoing economic development initiatives — continues to create demand for skilled trades workers, including qualified elevator constructors.

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.

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 New York

Elevator Constructors in New York are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by New York State Department of Labor, Division of Safety and Health, Elevator Safety Bureau.

View full New Yorklicensing requirements →

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