Brought to you by Forge Lifts, a Kent Lift Service
What does a Lift Engineer do?
In a modern urban landscape where towering buildings are a common sight, lift engineers play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of vertical transportation systems like lifts and escalators. Their job encompasses a multitude of responsibilities, from the initial design and installation of these systems to their regular maintenance and repair. Lift Engineers, LOLER engineers, and Lift Consultants all play a vital role in the lift industry. Let's delve deeper into the specific roles that lift engineers specialise in:
Service Engineers
Service engineers are the custodians of existing lift systems, working tirelessly to ensure their optimal performance. They are responsible for carrying out routine checks, isolating problems, and making repairs where necessary. Their quick response to emergency breakdowns helps in minimising downtime, maintaining the building's functionality.
Installation Engineers
Installation engineers are the backbone of any new building project, laying the groundwork for a safe and efficient lift system. They collaborate closely with architects and builders, integrating the lift system into the building's design. These engineers not only install new lifts but also undertake major overhauls of existing lift equipment, ensuring they comply with the latest safety and efficiency standards.
Becoming a lift engineer
Embarking on a career as a lift engineer means stepping into a role that demands both technical prowess and a knack for problem-solving. This profession is not only about the machines but also about ensuring safety and seamless functionality in various establishments, from commercial buildings to residential complexes. Here, we will guide you through the essential qualifications and skills required to become a proficient lift engineer.
Getting Started
Apprenticeships
Embarking on a career as a lift engineer often starts with apprenticeships offered by many lift companies across England. These apprenticeships, typically lasting 3 to 4 years, serve as a golden opportunity to learn the trade in-depth. For those with a natural knack for the job, there is a possibility to complete the apprenticeship in a shorter time span.
During the apprenticeship, the major portion of your learning occurs on the job, where you will work closely with a seasoned lift engineer or technician who will mentor you and show you the ropes. This hands-on experience is complemented by a substantial amount of coursework to be completed at home. The coursework covers a broad spectrum of subjects, including the various tasks involved in the job, safety protocols, the effective use of tools, and understanding relevant regulations.
In some instances, apprentices might be required to attend a college that provides parallel instruction to supplement their on-the-job training. This, however, is not a universal requirement and is only facilitated by certain companies. These academic stints aim to offer a more structured approach to learning, encompassing theory and practical applications in lift engineering.
Trainee Positions
Apart from apprenticeships, many companies offer positions for trainees, who are colloquially referred to as "mates" within the industry. Similar to apprenticeships, trainee positions allow individuals to learn on the job and complete necessary coursework. However, trainee programs tend to be less structured, placing a higher onus on individuals to manage and complete their coursework independently.
Qualifications
At the culmination of the apprenticeship or trainee program, candidates are bestowed with an NVQ level 3 qualification in Lift Engineering, a testimonial of their skill and proficiency in the field. This qualification not only provides you with the necessary knowledge of lift systems but also certifies your ability to undertake maintenance tasks safely and effectively.
Apart from this foundational qualification, pursuing further studies can open up avenues for specialisation in the field. Some popular courses that can aid in building a robust skill set include:
- Level 3 Diploma in Maintenance Engineering Technology
- Level 3 Diploma in Building Services Engineering
- Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Lift Engineering
Skillset Gained
As you venture into a career as a lift engineer, it's not just about the qualifications you gain, but also the repertoire of skills that you develop during the learning phase. These skills are pivotal in ensuring safety, efficiency, and efficacy in your work. Here, we explore the vital skills that you will hone as you grow in your role:
Technical Proficiency
- Mastery of Tools: A lift engineer must be adept at using a variety of tools confidently and safely. As you progress through your training, you'll become familiar with the array of tools necessary for the job, learning the nuances of their operation and maintenance. This skill is fundamental in executing tasks efficiently and safely.
- Interpreting Electrical Wiring Diagrams: A crucial skill in this field is the ability to read and comprehend electrical wiring diagrams. These diagrams are the blueprint of the electrical connections within the lift system. As an engineer, you will learn to analyse and understand these diagrams to troubleshoot issues or install new systems effectively.
- Understanding Schematics: Schematics, or schematic diagrams, provide a representation of the elements of a system using abstract, graphic symbols rather than realistic pictures. Developing the skill to interpret these diagrams will enable you to understand the intricate workings of lift systems, fostering a deeper comprehension and facilitating more effective work on lift installations and repairs.
- Technical Manual Comprehension: As part of your role, you'll need to navigate through extensive technical manuals. Your ability to read and understand these manuals is vital in ensuring that you can follow the specified guidelines and standards, ensuring safety and efficiency in all tasks undertaken.
Problem-Solving Skills
- Overcoming Engineering Challenges: During your training, you will cultivate the ability to tackle engineering problems using the transferable skills acquired. This includes applying past experiences to find innovative solutions to new challenges, and fostering a mindset of continuous learning and adaptation.
Communication and Teamwork
- Effective Communication in Hazardous Situations: As a lift engineer, you will often find yourself working in potentially hazardous environments. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively in these situations is paramount. You will learn to work harmoniously in a team, ensuring that information is relayed accurately to prevent accidents and maintain safety standards.
What does a Forge Lifts' Lift Engineer do?
Resources and Professional Bodies
LEIA - Lift and Escalator Industry Association.
LEIA, or the Lift and Escalator Industry Association, stands as a formidable pillar in the lift and escalator sector. Established from the merger of two longstanding associations in 1997, it traces its roots back to 1932, reflecting a rich tradition of expertise and guidance in the industry. Presently, it boasts a strong network of 163 UK-based companies, constituting a massive 85% of the entire industry.
National Careers Service
The "National Careers Service" is an invaluable resource spearheaded by the UK government, designed to assist individuals in navigating the diverse landscape of career opportunities available in the UK, including the pathway to becoming a proficient lift engineer.
Lift Industry News
Lift Industry News operates as a dedicated, interconnected platform offering the latest updates and insights in the field. Collaborating closely with prominent organizations including LEIA, the CIBSE Lifts Group, the University of Northampton, SAFed, and the Lift Industry Charity, it serves as a nucleus of information and innovation in the industry.
