Become a Glazier

Everything You Need to Know About Working in the Glazing Trade

Job Overview

Glaziers are skilled tradespeople who install, repair, and replace glass in commercial, residential, and industrial buildings. They handle everything from storefront systems and curtain wall to shower enclosures and glass partitions.

Whether you’re drawn to hands-on work, enjoy building with precision, or want a career that scales with your skills—glazing offers strong wages, stable demand, and room to grow.

Glazier Job Description

Glaziers work with a variety of glass systems and architectural framing components. Their work may involve:

  • Measuring and cutting glass or metal framing
  • Installing glass into storefronts, curtain wall systems, doors, and windows
  • Reading and interpreting shop drawings and blueprints
  • Operating tools like drills, levels, suction lifters, and saws
  • Sealing and securing glass with glazing tape, silicone, gaskets, and anchors
  • Collaborating with project managers, engineers, and other trades on-site

Specializations may include:

  • Curtain Wall Installation
  • Storefront Framing
  • Shower Enclosures
  • Security Glazing
  • Glass Partitions and Doors

Typical Responsibilities

  • Load and stage materials safely for transport and installation
  • Set and align framing systems accurately
  • Apply sealants, gaskets, and thermal breaks
  • Operate boom lifts or scaffolding when required
  • Review field conditions and report discrepancies
  • Maintain safety standards and OSHA compliance

Required Skills & Tools

Core Skills

  • Comfortable working at heights
  • Strong spatial awareness and eye for detail
  • Mechanical aptitude and tool competency
  • Ability to read shop drawings and follow specs
  • Communication and teamwork

Common Tools

  • Measuring tape
  • Suction cups / glass lifters
  • Chop saws / miter saws
  • Screw guns / impact drivers
  • Caulking guns
  • Ladders, lifts, scaffolds
  • PPE (gloves, glasses, harnesses)

How to Become a Glazier

1. High School Diploma or Equivalent

Basic math and geometry are helpful.

2. Glazier Training or Apprenticeship

Many start through local unions or training platforms like LearnGlazing.com, which offers:

  • Curtain wall installation training
  • Safety protocols
  • Shop drawing interpretation
  • System-specific knowledge

3. Hands-On Experience

Most learning happens on the job. Foremen, project managers, or mentors teach techniques in real-time.

Working Conditions

  • Full-time with early start times (often 6:00–7:00 AM)
  • Indoor and outdoor work in all weather
  • Must be comfortable lifting heavy materials (glass panels, aluminum extrusions)
  • Regional travel to jobsites is common

Career Path & Advancement

Glaziers can grow into roles such as:

  • Lead Installer / Foreman – Supervises crews and coordinates work
  • Estimator – Reviews blueprints and generates job bids
  • Project Manager – Oversees scheduling, budgeting, and communication
  • Drafting or Detailing – Creates shop drawings (MP Drafting)
  • Fabrication Lead – Runs fabrication operations (Pinnacle)
  • Company Owner / Operator – Starts a subcontracting business

With time, many glaziers specialize in a particular system (e.g. security glazing, unitized curtain wall) or become trusted advisors for architects and general contractors.

Pros and Cons of Being a Glazier

Pros:

  • High job demand across commercial construction
  • Tangible, visible results you can take pride in
  • Opportunities to travel for projects
  • Clear path to advancement or business ownership

Cons:

  • Physically demanding work, often outdoors
  • Exposure to weather and height-related risks
  • Safety hazards (e.g. glass cuts, ladders, heavy lifting)
  • Inconsistent hours during slow construction seasons

Average Glazier Salary by Experience

Entry-Level (0–2 years):

  • $18–25 per hour
  • $35,000–$50,000 annually

Mid-Level (2–5 years):

  • $25–35 per hour
  • $50,000–$70,000 annually

Foreman / Lead Installer:

  • $35–45 per hour
  • $70,000–$90,000+ annually

Project Manager / Estimator:

  • Varies by company and region
  • $70,000–$100,000+ annually

Job Outlook

The demand for skilled glaziers continues to grow as glass becomes a dominant element in modern architecture—especially in commercial and institutional buildings.

Contractors frequently report:

  • Labor shortages
  • Delays due to lack of trained glaziers
  • Desire for better field training and sourcing tools

Training & Education Resources

Browse Glazier Jobs

Looking to get hired or grow your team?

  • Explore current job openings on the GlazierIQ Job Board
  • Post jobs and connect with trained candidates
  • Hire smarter with built-in connections to training, drafting, and fabrication partners

Final Word

Being a glazier is more than installing glass. It’s about craftsmanship, coordination, and constant improvement. With the right tools and training, it’s a trade you can build a career—and a company—around.