What's involved

A glazier works on a wide range of projects, from replacing a broken piece of glass to fitting out a whole office block. As well as fitting glass they also work in the manufacture of glazed units like timber-framed or UPVC-framed windows and doors.

Experienced glaziers are also able to use their skills on specialist projects, for instance on churches or other old buildings.

Skills required

Glaziers work both indoors and out, often at considerable heights so you'll need to be happy working anywhere. You'll need to be good at Maths to take accurate measurements for glass cutting and be able to follow drawings and plans.

As you would expect, safety is essential when working with glass so it is also very important to have an awareness of how to work safely.

Qualifications required

There are no formal requirements although Maths and English Standard Grades would help.

Salary ranges

(This is a guide to the average salary a fully qualified and experienced person might expect to get.)

£16,000 - £23,000

Progression routes

There are lots of opportunities with businesses that sell, cut and install glass for construction companies, or with local authorities, public organisations and shopfitting companies.  Glazing firms that specialise in conservatory construction, glass roofing or emergency repairs for shops and offices will also require glaziers.

With experience, you could progress to technician or supervisor level overseeing a team of glaziers, or move into specialist work. You could also become self-employed and work on a sub-contract basis.

If you decide to progress into supervisory, design or management roles there are opportunities to study for:

• Technical, supervisory and  management SVQ qualifications (SCQF Levels 6 to11)
• HNC Construction or a number of other built environment HNC/HND qualifications (SCQF Levels 7 or 8)
• Degree level qualifications in a number of construction disciplines (SCQF Levels 9 to 12)