What does a Glazier do?

By proficiently performing their job duties, a Glazier helps contribute to the success of a construction project. Properly fitting and sealing windows reduces the risk of fogging and leaks and helps to control temperatures within a home or place of business, positively impacting both the appearance of structures and the level of comfort enjoyed by their occupants. 

Following safety precautions and building code guidelines reduces the risk of on-the-job injuries and makes structures safe for the people who live and work in them. Consequently, a skilled Glazier helps to shield their employers from liability. Their work also increases customer satisfaction, which can encourage repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals.

Glazier skills and qualifications

A quality candidate for a Glazier position should possess certain skills and qualifications. Consider including the following in your Glazier job description:

• Familiarity with blueprints and proper measuring techniques

• Ability to lift and carefully handle heavy panes of glass

• Arithmetic skills to determine sizing for fasteners and glass

• Thorough understanding of common glazing techniques, such as dry glazing, wet glazing, cable netting and snap-in systems

• Knowledge of how to properly use tools such as grinders, glass cutters, caulk guns, finish nailers, miter boxes and utility knives

• Attentiveness to detail to ensure proper alignment of glass and to spot any defects in installation

• Ability to remain upright throughout a shift and to move through difficult-to-access spaces as needed

• Knowledge of building codes, health and safety standards and required personal protection equipment for use on the job

Glazier experience requirements

Glaziers typically learn the necessary skills for success while on the job, making experience an important consideration when comparing candidates. Typically, a Glazier needs three to four years of hands-on experience working as an apprentice or trainee under the direct supervision of an experienced Glazier to be able to perform their job duties sufficiently.

If you have an open position on a team made up of more experienced Glaziers, less experience may be acceptable. On the other hand, if your open position involves supervising and training other Glaziers, you may wish to focus on candidates who have five or more years of work history in the field.

Glazier education and training requirements

There are generally no formal education requirements for Glaziers. However, some states require Glaziers to gain professional licensing before working independently. If yours is one of them, consider adding a valid license to the education and training section of your Glazier job description.

As you examine applications, you may want to prioritize candidates who hold Architectural Glass and Metal Technician (AGMT) certification from the Architectural Glass and Metal Certification Council (AGMCC). To receive this voluntary certification, Glaziers must typically have at least five years of work experience and pass an exam.

Glazier salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Glazier is $69,160 per year. What individual Glaziers earn depends on various factors, such as their experience, education and training, certification status and geographic location. 

Job descriptions for similar positions

If the Window Glazier job description doesn’t fully reflect the nature of your open position, one of the following related job titles may be a good alternative:

• Construction Worker

• Construction Superintendent

• Construction Manager

• General Contractor

Glazier job description FAQs

Who does a Glazier report to?

On a construction site, the person a Glazier reports to varies. A Senior Glazier may oversee the work of a team of multiple Glaziers, or a single Glazier may work on a project and report directly to a Construction Foreman or General Contractor.

What’s the difference between a Glazier and a Window Replacement Specialist?

A Window Replacement Specialist replaces damaged or aged windows and frames in homes. Often, their job duties include helping homeowners select the right windows to suit their needs as well as performing the installation. A Window Glazier job description usually lists only responsibilities related to fitting frames with glass. Glaziers normally don’t have any sales-related duties, and they do not replace frames.

How do a Glazier’s duties and responsibilities differ by employer type?

A Commercial Glazier job description may include knowledge of how to safely install tall scaffolding and use rigging systems to access windows on skyscrapers, while Glaziers who work in residential contracting may not need these skills. Around 4% of Glaziers work in the manufacturing industry and may have unique duties, such as testing finished prefabricated windows for flaws and achieving hourly production goals.