How to Land the Highest-Paying Blue-Collar Job: Elevator Technician

Elevator technicians rank among the top 1% of blue-collar earners in the U.S., with salaries far exceeding the national average. If you’re seeking a lucrative career without a four-year degree, this profession combines technical expertise, job security, and exceptional earning potential. Here’s how to break into this high-demand field and capitalize on its financial rewards.

Why Elevator Technicians Earn Top Dollar

Elevator installation and repair is a high-skill, high-stakes industry. Modern elevators and escalators rely on complex mechanical, electrical, and computerized systems, requiring specialized knowledge to ensure safety and compliance. This expertise translates into premium pay:

• Median annual salary: $106,580 (as of 2024), with top earners exceeding $128,000.

• Hourly wages: Range from $23 to $49.64 per hour, depending on location and experience. States like Oregon and Washington offer the highest wages, exceeding $100,000 annually.

The scarcity of qualified professionals further drives demand. With only 20,700 elevator technicians nationwide and a projected 13% job growth through 2025, employers are competing to attract talent with competitive pay and benefits.

Steps to Become an Elevator Technician

1: Meet Basic Requirements

To become an elevator technician, you generally need:

• A high school diploma or GED (some programs accept equivalent qualifications).
• Be at least 17 or 18 years old, depending on the apprenticeship program.
• Authorization to work in the United States.
• Physical fitness to handle lifting, climbing, and working in confined spaces.
• Basic math and mechanical aptitude, often assessed by an aptitude test.

2: Pass the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test (EIAT)

Most apprenticeship programs require applicants to pass the Elevator Industry Aptitude Test (EIAT). This test evaluates your reading comprehension, mechanical reasoning, and math skills relevant to elevator work. Preparing for the EIAT is crucial; practice tests and study guides are available to help you improve your score.

Applicants with higher EIAT scores often receive priority in apprenticeship selection, so investing time in preparation can significantly improve your chances.

3: Complete a Paid Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships are the cornerstone of this career. Sponsored by unions (e.g., International Union of Elevator Constructors) or companies like Otis Elevator, these programs blend:

• 2,000 hours/year of on-the-job training: Hands-on experience in installation, maintenance, and safety protocols.

• 144 hours/year of classroom instruction: Covering electrical theory, blueprint reading, and code compliance.

Apprentices earn 40–50% of a journeyman’s wage during training, with incremental raises.

4: Obtain Licensure and Certifications

Most states require licensure. Key certifications include:
• Certified Elevator Technician (CET): Validates expertise in troubleshooting and repairs.

• Qualified Elevator Inspector (QEI): For roles in safety compliance.

Certifications boost earning potential. For example, QEI-certified inspectors can earn $110,000+ annually.

5: Apply for Elevator Technician Jobs

With apprenticeship completion and certifications, you can apply for full elevator technician positions. Highlight your training, certifications, and hands-on experience in your resume. Many employers look for candidates who understand safety standards, electrical systems, and mechanical troubleshooting.

Why This Career Stands Out

1. Unmatched Earning Potential

Elevator technicians outearn 90% of blue-collar workers. For comparison:

• Plumbers: Median $60,000/year.

• HVAC technicians: Median $55,000/year.

Overtime pay and emergency call-outs add $10,000–$20,000/year to base salaries.

2. Job Security in a Tech-Driven Industry

Urbanization and aging infrastructure ensure steady demand. Cities like New York and San Francisco, with high-rise density, rely heavily on skilled technicians for modernization projects. Additionally, advancements in smart elevators and IoT-enabled systems create opportunities for tech-savvy professionals.

3. Career Advancement Pathways

Experienced technicians can transition into roles like:

• Project Managers: Overseeing large-scale installations (salaries up to $140,000).

• Field Supervisors: Leading teams and training apprentices.

Companies like KONE and Otis prioritize internal promotions, offering clear paths to leadership.

Challenges to Consider

While financially rewarding, this career demands:

• Physical stamina: Climbing ladders, lifting heavy components, and working in confined spaces.

• Risk management: Adherence to strict safety protocols to prevent accidents.

However, rigorous apprenticeship programs and union protections mitigate these risks.

Conclusion

Elevator technicians represent the pinnacle of blue-collar careers, blending six-figure earning potential with long-term stability. By investing in apprenticeships and certifications, you can secure a future-proof career in a sector critical to modern infrastructure.

Take action now: research apprenticeship programs in your area, prepare for the aptitude test, and begin your path to a rewarding career as an elevator technician. Your future in a well-paid, skilled trade awaits!

Sources:
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2024
• 10 Highest-Paying Blue-Collar Jobs for 2025 2024