They also work on escalators, dumbwaiters, and moving walkways in new and old buildings. In new buildings, elevator mechanics work in crews of several mechanics. They read blueprints, and then get the elevator shaft ready by putting in rails. These guide the elevator up and down. They put together the steel frame of the elevator car and connect the walls and doors.
Mechanics install electrical wiring and control panels.
In older buildings, elevator mechanics often work alone. They do maintenance such as oiling and greasing parts and changing worn parts. A crew of several mechanics may do major repairs and put in new equipment. Elevator mechanics are also called elevator installers and repairers or elevator constructors. They usually specialize in maintenance, repair work, or installation.