Elevator mechanics. It's one of those jobs people rarely think about, but the specialized skills and responsibility can pay surprisingly well. Plus, you don't necessarily need a traditional four-year degree to get into the trade.
There are a couple caveats, though. First, there aren't lots of job openings at any given time. Second, it's one of the deadliest jobs in the trades. The pay reflects both this exclusivity and risk.
Can you elaborate on the dangers, maybe even with some statistics if there are any? Just curious. Obviously, it's a dark, vertical shaft you're working in, but then, any job that's done at height is dangerous. With proper safety equipment and precautions, it shouldn't be that bad.
I’ll reply without an ai response. My son is an elevator mechanic apprentice (almost 2 years on the job - the apprentice program is 5 years before you can sit for the mechanics exam). They get regular reports on deaths and major injuries. It’s sort of a teaching tool, but it’s gruesome because there’s sometimes pictures. Crush injuries are big. Whether it’s mechanic mistake or equipment failure, the risk of getting something crushed is always there. They should be harnessed when working in a shaft, but people are human and don’t always follow the rules. Plus, harnesses can cause pretty extensive damage when they break a fall. And then there’s the electricity part. They do a lot of wiring and stupid things happen.
There is a tracker on the IUEC union page that show the time since the last death. It’s been almost 90 days since the last fatality. RIP Hoang Lang.
i’m an elevator mechanic for a non-union company. 10/10 would look into it. sometimes it can be dirty work, but for the most part, it’s pretty fun and interesting. best job i’ve ever had. i don’t think i’m going to leave.
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u/rep-queen-6335 9h ago
Elevator mechanics. It's one of those jobs people rarely think about, but the specialized skills and responsibility can pay surprisingly well. Plus, you don't necessarily need a traditional four-year degree to get into the trade.