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Lift Mechanic

Also known as Lift Electrician.

Lift mechanics assemble, install, adjust, maintain and repair electric and hydraulic freight and passenger lifts and escalators.

Lift mechanics working on installation and modernisation projects generally work in teams on building construction sites. In these instances they work closely with building and other specialist tradespeople.

An experienced lift mechanic is able to perform more complex work functions and tasks, such as adjusting and tuning lifts to make sure they work safely and efficiently.

Lift mechanics are required by state and territory government regulations to wear protective clothing, including a safety helmet, goggles, gloves, shield, spats and safety shoes or boots.

Lift mechanics may need to work weekends, on call or after hours to perform emergency repairs.

They may also spend a great deal of time traveling to various locations.

TASKS

Lift mechanics may perform the following tasks:

study drawings and lay out the position of steelwork, guide rails, motors, pumps and cylinders
install lift guide rails and check that they are correctly aligned
install cables, counterweights, pumps, motor foundations, escalator drives, lift cars, doors, entrance frames, and safety and control devices
connect electrical wiring to control panels and electric motors
test and adjust assemblies, including cables, wiring and electric controls, and adjust safety devices such as brakes and speed governors
carry out regular maintenance programmes on lifts and escalators
use laptop computers in the field for tuning and diagnostic work in fault finding
find the causes of faults in motors, brakes, switches and electrical and electronic control systems
repair hydraulic or mechanical brakes by adjusting or replacing valves, ratchets, seals and brake linings

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy technical work
able to cope with the physical demands of the job
normal colour vision
able to work at heights and in confined spaces
good communication skills
good interpersonal skills
aptitude in mechanical and electrical reasoning
able to work independently or as part of a team

Very Good Outlook for this career!

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a lift mechanic you usually have to complete an apprenticeship in Electrotechnology Electrician.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Modern lifts are controlled by computers and complex electronic systems. As a result, there is an increasing need for lift mechanics to have a knowledge of electronics.

After completing your apprenticeship, you will need to apply for a licence to perform electrical work. See www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au or www.actpla.act.gov.au for more information.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Lift mechanics are employed by companies that require specialised electrical and mechanical work to install, maintain, modernise, service and repair lifts, escalators and moving walkway systems.

Maintenance and repair is an ongoing source of work. Installation jobs depend on the construction of new buildings.

Job opportunities depend on the level of multistorey construction activity, changes to building regulations and replacement or repair requirements.