Glazier
Automation Risk Score
Why Glazier is Very Safe
Glazing work resists automation because glass installation requires human judgment, precision, and adaptability in unpredictable construction environments. Every opening is slightly different from specifications; frames may be out of square, dimensions may vary from blueprints, and existing conditions require assessment and adaptation. Handling glass requires continuous judgment about balance, grip, and positioning—a moment's inattention can shatter expensive panels or cause serious injury.
Glaziers must assess whether openings are ready to receive glass, make real-time decisions about shimming and adjustment, and verify waterproof sealing that prevents costly future leaks. High-rise curtain wall installation involves working at heights in wind conditions that affect how glass can be safely maneuvered. The variety of glass types, framing systems, and installation conditions means each project presents unique challenges. Customer interaction is significant in residential work—understanding homeowner preferences, recommending appropriate products, and explaining options requires human communication.
Key Protection Factors
What Does a Glazier Do?
Role overview and daily responsibilities
Glaziers install glass in windows, skylights, storefronts, display cases, and other structures. The work involves reading blueprints and specifications, measuring and cutting glass to fit openings, preparing frames and applying weatherproofing, lifting and positioning glass panels that can weigh hundreds of pounds, securing glass with clips and sealants, and installing mirrors and decorative glass elements. Modern glazing work increasingly involves specialized products—tempered safety glass, insulated units for energy efficiency, laminated glass for security, and decorative glass for architectural effect.
Commercial glaziers work on curtain wall systems that form the exterior enclosures of modern buildings, requiring precision installation of complex aluminum framing and glass panel systems. Residential glaziers replace windows and install shower enclosures, mirrors, and tabletops. The job demands physical strength for handling heavy glass, precision for cutting and fitting, and attention to safety when working with a material that can cause serious injury.
Work Environment
Varied locations
Physical Demands
Light to Moderate
Key Skills Required
Salary & Demand
Typical Salary Range (USD)
$38,000 - $99,000
Source: BLS Occupational Employment Statistics, May 2024
Training Routes
Time to Qualify
3-4 years
Training Types
Business Opportunity
Glazing offers opportunities for specialty contractors and small business ownership. The median glazier earns around $55,400, but experienced commercial glaziers and specialty installers earn $70,000-$90,000+. Independent glazing contractors serve residential markets—window replacement, shower doors, mirrors, and custom glass—without the overhead of large commercial operations.
Commercial glazing contractors bid on curtain wall and storefront projects for larger buildings. Specializing in particular applications—auto glass, custom shower enclosures, decorative glass, security glazing—creates premium service niches. The energy efficiency focus in construction drives demand for window replacement and high-performance glazing systems.
Starting a glazing business requires vehicles, equipment for handling and cutting glass, and liability insurance, but established contractors build reputations that generate referral business. The relatively modest 3% job growth reflects a mature industry, but ongoing construction and replacement demand ensures steady work for skilled glaziers.
Why Start a Business?
- •Higher earning potential than employment
- •Recurring revenue from maintenance contracts
- •AI-resistant customer relationships
Industry
Related Careers
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Carpenters construct, install, and repair building frameworks and structures made from wood and other materials. Finish and custom carpenters specialize in detailed work including custom cabinetry, built-in furniture, millwork, trim installation, staircases, and architectural woodwork. The role requires reading blueprints, measuring and cutting materials precisely, joining materials using nails, screws, adhesives, and joinery techniques, and ensuring finished work meets aesthetic and structural standards. Carpenters must understand different wood species, their properties, and appropriate applications. The work spans new construction, renovation, restoration of historic buildings, and custom furniture fabrication. Each project presents unique challenges—fitting trim around irregular walls, matching existing woodwork in older homes, or translating design concepts into functional pieces. Physical demands include lifting materials, extended standing, and working at heights or in awkward positions.
Roofer
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Last updated: December 2025
Source: BLS Occupational Employment Statistics, May 2024
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data: BLS Occupational Employment Statistics, May 2024. Figures represent median annual wages across the United States.
Automation Risk Score: Based on O*NET occupational analysis (47-2121.00) evaluating task complexity, physical requirements, social intelligence, and environmental variability. Methodology based on research from Frey & Osborne (Oxford, 2017).
Growth projections: 3% (2024-2034), based on BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
