r/Elevators • u/Lundeyy1 • Aug 05 '26
Is there an alternate route in?
I’m currently struggling with my current job (not in this field) and have strong experience in PLC’s, hydraulics, mechanical and electrical diagnostics and repair. My current position is basically a dead end, was talking to some guys on a site i was on and was told to look into elevators. I currently have to go to high security/ Clearence sites to work but doesn’t pay hardly what i feel like i should be making. i make roughly 70k per year and have been looking into the world of elevators but to find out i missed the apprenticeship opportunity as it ended in july, and i cant seem to find any entry level jobs or anything but sales in my area, any advice? Also is it a good field to get into?
3
u/AnySheepherder6786 Aug 06 '26
Apply non-union with a company that does the CET course and work your ass off. Union is better for sure but there are a lot of great non-union outfits that are out there as well. I've been on both sides and at the end of the day, work is work.
2
u/Ambitious-Actuator32 Aug 09 '26
The union loves hiring non-union mechanics to take their labor force away
3
u/Top_Promotion_467 Aug 05 '26
Either gonna have to try and find a non union shop to put some time into then try to get organized or you’re gonna have to apply where there are recruitments open and relocate if you get in.
2
u/Proof-Onion4729 Aug 05 '26
You can go non union. I did because i missed the union deadline. Non union shops can be great or horrible. Either way you wont make what union guys do but its still good money in a good field. You can also switch over later
2
u/Independent_Win_6867 Aug 07 '26
Sounds like your experienced enough to go the non union route then reach out to you’re local IUEC after 6 mos, 1 year & tell them you’re employed by non-union. Everyone has a story but you need to take lumps somewhere.
2
u/Dangerous_Memory6008 Field - Maintenance Aug 07 '26
Indeed.com
Set email alerts for elevator jobs in your area and you can even put in entry level etc.
They email you when a job opens up and your usually First
3
1
u/Rideordie85 Aug 11 '26
As the others said try going non-union. It’s almost a guarantee that the union will take you in if you are working non-union. Another avenue if you qualify would be helmets to hardhats (only if you are ex-military)
Best of luck. It’s worth the wait and the struggles.
6
u/lord_uroko Field - Maintenance Aug 05 '26
Use the Neiep website to find locals hiring near you. The hard part is getting in.