Lift Technician

Tasks & duties

Lift technicians may do some or all of the following:

• discuss the client's requirements
• install lifts and escalators
• modify circuitry in lifts and escalators
• monitor performance of lifts or escalators with a computer
• fix faults in equipment
• maintain lifts and escalators
• free people who become trapped

Skills & knowledge

Lift technicians need to have:

• knowledge of electronics and electrical theory
• knowledge of mechanics and engineering
• knowledge of building warrant of fitness requirements
• maths skills
• good communication skills
• organisational and planning skills
• fault-finding and problem-solving skills
• computer skills to monitor lift systems and order parts

Entry requirements

To become a lift technician you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Lifts and Escalators - Level 4. For further information about apprenticeships contact Tools4Work.

Lift technician apprenticeships are part of the Modern Apprenticeships scheme, which are for people aged 16-21. For further information go to the Modern Apprenticeships website.

Secondary education

School Certificate or NCEA Level 1 English, maths and physics are preferred. Technology may also be useful.

Tertiary education

An Advanced Trade Certificate in Electrical Wiring and a National Certificate in Electrical Engineering are useful.

Training on the job

Lift technicians may attend workshops, seminars or training courses to keep up to date with the latest electrical cabling, equipment, fittings and other new products.

Registration

To gain the national certificate you need to register with the Electrical Workers Registration Board as an electrical service technician, Levels A and B.

Useful experience

Useful experience for lift technicians includes maintenance and diagnostics work, electrical or electronics work, or mechanical work.

Related courses

Electrical Engineering
Electronic Engineering
Mechanical Engineering

For more information, please refer to Career Services.