Glaziers specialize in installing different glass products in skylights, windows, mirrors, and other areas where glass is needed. A few glaziers also work with marble, granite, plastics, and other materials that are used as glass substitutes. The job is physically demanding and most glaziers work on a full-time basis.
Watch a Video:
How to Become a Glazier
Typically, a glazier enters an apprenticeship program that lasts about 4 years. For every year attending, the student must complete at least 144 hours of related technical training and 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training. Instruction includes the use of tools and equipment of the trade and learning installation techniques, safety practices, first aid, and blueprint reading. Some groups sponsor apprenticeship programs, including contractor and union associations.
The qualify to enter one of these apprenticeship programs, you must be 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or the equivalent, and be physically able to perform the job. Only two states require a license: Florida and Connecticut. These states require that applicants complete an apprenticeship, pass an exam, and have a combination of work experience and education.
Job Description of a Glazier
Glaziers have various tasks to perform on-the-job with different levels of difficulty. However, they typically follow the specifications for the job and reading relevant blueprints. They may need to remove old or broken glass or other materials before replacing the glass. He or she must properly cut glass to the specified shape and size.
Some glaziers may need to make or install moldings or sashes for the glass installation and secure them in with clips, moldings, or other fasteners. They install weather seals or putty around pane edges to seal joints. A glazier may install shower doors, table tops, security windows, storefront windows, or many other variety of glass installations.
Pending on their speciality they can work in commercial or in private homes. In the commercial setting they often work on exterior or architectural items, however in the home setting they work primarily in bathrooms on showers, however may also install windows.
Many work as foundation, structure, and building exterior contractors and most glaziers work full time. This job can be physically demanding thus standing, bending, lifting, and exposure to weather elements are common especially during installation. In addition due to the nature of the job cuts and a falls can occur, therefore safety protocols are recommended such as using protective gear, such as safety glasses, harnesses, and gloves.
Benefits of Becoming a Glazier
Being a Glazier has several benefits, and at the top of the list is the hands-on work. They enjoy the physical aspects of the job and its diversity. It never gets dull! They get job satisfaction by seeing the results of their work immediately. Glaziers also benefit by getting paid while they are training and learning the skills during their apprenticeship or on-the-job training.
Glaziers make competitive salaries, mainly depending on location. In addition they have travel opportunities and can make more money with incentives and overtime when offered. Glaziers are in high demand, which means job security and plenty of job opportunities! They receive standard benefits packages of health insurance, vacation time, and retirement options. Some companies offer additional benefits so when deciding ask them about it before committing.
Glazier Career Video Transcript
Installing a retail store display window or securing the glass panels of a skyscraper takes the craftsmanship of a glazier. Glaziers cut and install glass for a variety of structures, and ensure it is secured and weatherproof for all seasons. In homes, glaziers install or replace windows, mirrors and shower doors as well as fitting glass for tabletops and display cases. On commercial projects, glaziers install items such as decorative room dividers, security windows, or skylights, and replace storefront windows. On large-scale construction jobs, glass arrives on a project already cut and mounted into frames.
Glaziers position and secure the windows in place, with the help of construction workers using cranes or hoists to guide the pieces into place. The work is physically demanding. Glaziers spend most of the day standing, bending, or reaching, and often must lift and maneuver heavy, cumbersome materials. They have a higher than average rate of injuries and illnesses— typically from falls and overexertion. Most glaziers work full time, and the majority work for building contractors.
Some work for building material and supplies dealers. Glaziers typically train in a 4-year apprenticeship, after completing a high school education. Unions and contractor associations typically sponsor apprenticeship programs in this field. A few states require licensure.
Article Citations
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Glaziers.
National Center for O*NET Development. 47-2121.00. O*NET OnLine.
The career video is in the public domain from the U. S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.
