You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need to get a trainee position.

Relevant courses include:

• maintenance engineering technology
• building services engineering
• mechanical or electrical engineering

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

You could apply to do an apprenticeship with a lift repair company, for example:

• Stairlift, Platform Lift and Service Lift Electro-Mechanic Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
• Lift and Escalator Electro-Mechanic Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

You may be able to join a lift engineering company as a new starter and do on-the-job training through the Lift and Escalator Industry Association.

As your career develops you could go on to complete a Higher National Certificate and Diploma in Lift and Escalator Technology.

You can apply directly to employers if you've got relevant qualifications and experience in electrical, electro-mechanical or building services engineering.

You'll need:

• practical skills for repairing and maintaining equipment
• problem-solving skills
• customer service skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of public safety and security
• persistence and determination
• the ability to work well with your hands
• the ability to work on your own
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

As a lift engineer, you would:

• interpret wiring and layout diagrams on jobs
• install and calibrate lift control systems
• refurbish interiors, panel displays, lighting and message systems
• service and repair customer lifts and escalators
• carry out safety checks and record results
• respond to emergency breakdown call-outs
• produce risk assessment reports and legal and insurance documents

You could work at a client's business.

Your working environment may be cramped, dirty and you'll travel often.

You may need to wear a uniform.