Glaziers |
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Who Are Glaziers? Glass is so much a part of daily life that most people don’t think about who cut the glass for their windows and doors in their offices and homes. Yet they would certainly notice if their homes and offices didn’t have glass windows to make rooms cheery and bright! Glaziers deserve more credit than they get; they select, cut, install, and remove and replace all types of glass. Most glaziers work for glazing contractors although some work in retail glass shops. People who enjoy working with their hands to create beautiful and functional glass structures for buildings will find a career as a glazier satisfying. What Do Glaziers Do? As so many buildings require glazing, glaziers typically work on a specific type of glazing. Residential glazing involves installing windows, mirrors, shower doors, and glass for tabletops. Commercial glazing may include installing security windows, room dividers, glass panels, or windows in shops and retailers. In addition, glaziers may work with other materials than glass such as granite, marble, or plastic. Glazing is an involved, multi-step process that must be executed carefully to ensure that the glass is held tightly in place. Glazier Training and Qualifications Classroom training combined with on-the-job training is typically required to become a professional glazier. There are different ways candidates can accomplish this: they may choose to work under a contractor while attending a vocational or trade school, or they may choose to do an apprenticeship, where they have the opportunity to work with experienced glaziers. Qualified candidates will possess excellent hand-eye coordination and math skills, and will be able to work easily with their hands. To advance in the field, those who speak Spanish and English will have an advantage over those who do not. Glazier Certification and Licensure Glaziers can receive various types of certification, but do not necessarily need to have a license. Only the state of Connecticut requires a license to be a glazier, although other states may require it at a future time. Those who would like to certify and advance can take examinations to become a Level I Glazier, Level II Commercial Interior or Residential Glazier, and Level III Master Glazier. This type of certification is offered through the National Glass Association and may lead to higher wages. Glazier Job Prospects With the increased need for new construction and buildings, glazier employment is expected to grow during the next decade. However, glaziers are susceptible to lay-offs or less work during economic downturns. Nevertheless, good opportunities will exist, primarily in large cities, where there is constant demand for glazing. Glazier Salary The average salary for a professional glazier is $31,948. However, salaries can range from $24,672 to $42,585. Those who are part of glazier unions typically earn more than those who are not. |