Elevator Constructor at Local 80 Elevator Constructors JAC

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipUnionPaid Training

at Local 80 Elevator Constructors JAC in Garner, NC

About This Program

Local 80 Elevator Constructors JAC in Garner, NC sponsors a union-affiliated (JATC) registered apprenticeship for individuals who want to build a career in elevator construction. This program, affiliated with the International Union of Elevator Constructors, delivers structured paid training in the Raleigh-Durham metro area — one of the Southeast's fastest-growing construction markets.

The program is time-based and runs for four years, comprising 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn to install, repair, and maintain elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, and moving walkways. Technical coursework covers electrical theory, hydraulics, mechanical systems, safety regulations, and code compliance, preparing apprentices for the full scope of the trade.

Completion of the program earns graduates journeyman elevator constructor status and the professional benefits of IUEC Local 80 membership. Union members gain access to collectively bargained wages, health and retirement benefits, and a skilled trade credential with strong transferability across the construction industry.

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 North Carolina

Elevator Constructors in North Carolina are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by North Carolina Department of Labor, Elevator and Amusement Device Bureau.

View full North Carolinalicensing requirements →

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