Elevator / Lift Mechanic
OFO No: 671204
Other names for Lift Mechanic:
- Elevator Fitter
- Elevator Repair Person
- Lift Electrician
- Lift Fitter / Installer
- Lift Service Technician
What is a Lift Mechanic?
Lift Mechanics work as part of a crew and specialise in the assembly, installation, testing and maintenance of escalators and lifts in accordance with local and national regulations.
Lift Mechanics work indoors, both in buildings under construction and in existing buildings. Some Lift Mechanics may even work on our local mines.
When installing a new lift, the shaft is constructed and prepared for use. The electrical wiring and controls are connected up. The lift car is then assembled and installed, together with the hoist that winds and unwinds the lift cable.
When the lifting equipment is operational mechanics check, adjust and recheck it to be sure it is working properly and safely.
Working conditions are sometimes uncomfortable due to the confined spaces one has to work in as well as the dust, oil and grease.
What does a Lift Mechanic do?
- puts together units and installs them
- tests that units are in good working order
- obeys safety regulations at all times
- services existing units regularly
- repairs units where necessary
- replaces parts
- replaces old units with new ones
- keeps detailed records of each unit
Are you … ?
- interested in working in the construction industry?
- claustrophobic? If YES, this is not a good career option for you!
- mechanically minded?
- mathematically minded?
- detail orientated?
- responsible and trustworthy?
- service driven?
- practical?
- good with your hands?
- observant?
- willing to work in cramped, often dusty places?
How do I become a Lift Mechanic?
PATH 1
- Apprenticeship (theory training at TVET college + practical training under qualified artisan)
- Trade Test
PATH 2
- Learnership – Lift Installation & Maintenance Level 2, 3 and 4#
- Trade Test
PATH 3
- Grade 10 or TVET (FET) Certificate NQF Level 2
- National Certificate in Lifting Machine Operations (NQF Level 3)
- Workplace experience
- Trade Test
PATH 4
- National Certificate: N1, N2, N3 (Engineering Studies)
- Workplace experience
- Trade Test
PATH 5
- Artisan Internship
- Trade Test
PATH 6
- RPL (Recognised Prior Learning) for Artisans: CLICK HERE
- If you have already been working a long time as an Elevator / Lift Mechanic without qualifications, you may be able to get your qualification through RPL
- Trade Test
TRAINING:
- CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
- Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
- To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education.
- CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.
OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Pipe Fitter … or … Aircraft Mechanic
Is becoming a Lift Mechanic the right career choice for me?
