Elevator Constructor at Otis Elevator

Time-BasedRegistered ApprenticeshipPaid Training

at Otis Elevator in Virginia Beach, VA

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.

About This Program

Otis Elevator sponsors a registered Elevator Constructor apprenticeship in Virginia Beach, VA. One of the world's largest elevator companies, Otis provides apprentices with training on industry-leading systems and technology in a non-union, employer-sponsored program. Apprentices receive pay throughout the entire four-year training period.

The apprenticeship includes 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices work alongside Otis field technicians to learn the installation, service, maintenance, and modernization of Otis elevator and escalator systems. Technical instruction covers electrical theory, mechanical and hydraulic systems, safety regulations, and Otis product-specific training.

Graduating apprentices are qualified journey-level Elevator Constructors with hands-on experience on systems used in commercial and residential buildings worldwide. Training with a global industry leader like Otis Elevator in Virginia Beach offers strong prospects for continued employment and advancement, along with the recognized credentials that come with completing a registered federal apprenticeship 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.

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 Virginia

Elevator Constructors in Virginia are required to hold a license. Licensing is issued by Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, Division of Building and Fire Regulation, Elevator Safety Unit.

View full Virginialicensing requirements →

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