Lift and escalator engineering
Level 3 · AdvancedEngineering and manufacturing 3 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
A lift and escalator engineer installs, maintains, repairs, and modernises passenger and goods lifts, escalators, and moving walkways in a wide range of buildings. At level 3, apprentices develop mechanical and electrical engineering skills alongside specific knowledge of lift systems, safety legislation, and testing procedures. The role leads to lead engineer, inspector, or project supervisor positions in the vertical transportation sector.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Mechanical and electrical principles as they apply to lift and escalator systems
Relevant legislation including the Lifts Regulations and Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations
How to read and interpret electrical and mechanical engineering drawings
Fault diagnosis techniques for hydraulic, traction, and machine-room-less lift systems
Safe isolation and lock-off procedures for working on powered equipment
Testing and inspection procedures required after installation, repair, or modernisation
Customer communication and how to update building managers and clients professionally
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Install new lift, escalator, or moving walkway equipment following manufacturers' specifications
Carry out planned preventive maintenance on a portfolio of equipment
Diagnose and repair mechanical and electrical faults on lift and escalator systems
Complete thorough testing and safety inspections after any maintenance or repair
Respond to entrapment and breakdown call-outs safely and efficiently
Complete service records, risk assessments, and test documentation accurately
Advise building managers on the condition of equipment and any recommended upgrades
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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