The process of hiring an elevator mechanic is one that requires a nuanced understanding of the field, a comprehension of the various skills required, and an ability to discern the reliability and expertise of a given professional. This comprehensive guide will elucidate the salient points to consider when embarking on this hiring journey.

First, it behooves us to understand the role of an elevator mechanic. These professionals are responsible for the installation, repair, and maintenance of elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other similar equipment. Their role is pivotal in maintaining the operational integrity of these systems, ensuring that they are safe and efficient. In today's vertical urban landscapes, their work is truly the backbone that keeps the city's lifeblood flowing.

As you endeavor to hire an elevator mechanic, it's essential to recognize the qualifications that distinguish a proficient individual in this field. Education, training, and certification are the triumvirate of credentials to look for. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically the basic educational requirement, but further technical training, either through a formal apprenticeship program or an associate degree in a field like electro-mechanical technology, certifies an individual's technical prowess. Additionally, an elevator mechanic should be certified by a recognized body, such as the National Association of Elevator Contractors (NAEC) or hold a Certified Elevator Technician (CET) certification.

When considering a potential elevator mechanic's reliability, it's worth drawing on game theory, the branch of mathematics that studies strategic situations where players choose different actions in an attempt to maximize their returns. By viewing the hiring process as a repeated game, where both employer and employee have a stake in mutually beneficial outcomes, one can see the value of hiring a reputable, certified professional over an untested entity. A certified professional has a track record and a reputation to maintain, making them more likely to provide reliable, high-quality service.

But certification and training alone are not sufficient indicators of a reliable mechanic. Practical experience plays an essential role in shaping a technician's real-world problem-solving capabilities. It's akin to Nassim Nicholas Taleb's concept of "skin in the game", a term that denotes having incurred risk by being involved in achieving a goal. An experienced mechanic has had their skin in the game, having navigated and tackled myriad problems that theory and simulation can't adequately replicate.

In the hiring process, it's also crucial to examine the potential hire's grasp of emerging technologies. The field of elevator mechanics doesn't exist in a vacuum; it's continually influenced by the advancements in related fields. For instance, the burgeoning field of Internet of Things (IoT) is making an impact on the elevator industry with Smart Elevators. These elevators are embedded with sensors that gather data, monitor critical systems in real-time, and predict maintenance needs before a significant breakdown occurs. A mechanic with an understanding of this technology would be a significant asset.

Comparing and contrasting various candidates can be streamlined using a scoring rubric, a tool often employed in educational settings to create consistency and fairness in grading. In this context, it could be used to rate applicants based on predefined criteria like education, experience, certifications, understanding of emerging technologies, and references.

In conclusion, the hiring of a reliable elevator mechanic is a multifaceted operation. It requires careful consideration of an individual's education, certification, experience, and understanding of contemporary advancements. By employing strategic decision-making theories and practical assessment tools, one can increase the likelihood of hiring a competent and reliable professional. Remember, the mechanics you hire today are the ones who will ensure your elevators continue to lift safely and efficiently tomorrow.