Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Glazier
What glaziers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a glazier?
Safety briefing. From there, the day usually includes read plans, measure openings, and cut glass. Full time.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a glazier working full time.
- Safety briefing.
- Set storefront frames.
- Install glass panels.
- Run sealant.
- Install curtain wall from a lift.
- Cut a mirror.
- Clean up.
Where glaziers work
Glaziers work on commercial sites, homes and shops, often at heights.
Hours and schedule
Full time.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Read plans
- Measure openings
- Cut glass
- Install frames
- Set glass
- Seal joints
- Install curtain walls
Tools you’ll use every day
- Glass cutters
- Suction cups
- Caulk guns
- Lifts
- Drills
- Glazing tools
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Good union pay
- Big projects
- Visible results
- Average growth
What’s hard
- Work at heights
- Heavy glass
- Cut risk
- Weather
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like precise work
- I don’t mind heights
- I like big buildings
- I like teamwork
- I’m careful
- I want union pay
Not sure? Take the free Glazier fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Wear cut-resistant gloves
- Use fall protection
- Lift glass with help
- Use suction cups