Cable car operators need good reflexes and stamina to perform their duties

Raymond Leung, head of cable car operations at Ngong Ping 360, says the industry is unique. In fact, no courses in Hong Kong specialise in cable car operations and maintenance.

'People who study mechanical, electrical or marine engineering do have an advantage, but whatever a person's background, they need to learn [the basics]. Holders of higher-diplomas or degrees suit our basic requirements,' he says.

Running a cable car involves specialist work and, for the most part, requires in-house training. Every year, Ngong Ping 360 recruits fresh graduates from technical institutes as cable car technician trainees. Newcomers to the operations and maintenance teams usually start in the position of operator.

This person needs to work for a year before applying for an operator's licence from the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department. The next step is to obtain a controller licence, which requires a year of experience as a licensed operator.

With five years of experience and a higher diploma in engineering, a person can apply to oversee the operations of the entire system.

Like all mass transport systems, cable cars need consistent check-ups. 'Operators must conduct a daily check, an hour or so before public opening hours. We check every carriage and lubricate machinery,' Leung adds.