Overview
Glaziers cut, fit, install and replace glass in residential, commercial and industrial buildings, on exterior walls of buildings and other structures and in furniture and other products. They are employed by construction glass installation contractors, retail service and repair shops and glass fabrication shops, or they may be self-employed. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Read and interpret blueprints and specifications to determine type and thickness of glass, frame, installation procedure and materials required
Measure and mark glass and cut glass using glass cutters or computerized cutter
Tint glass and create patterns on glass by etching, sandblasting or painting designs
Assemble, erect and dismantle scaffolds, rigging and hoisting equipment
Position glass panes into frames and secure glass using clips, points or mouldings
Assemble and install prefabricated glass, mirrors or glass products on walls, ceilings or exteriors of building
Fabricate metal frames for glass installation
Install, fit, fabricate and attach architectural metals or related substitute products in commercial and residential buildings
Install pre-cut mirrors and opaque and transparent glass panels in frames to form exterior walls of buildings
Replace glass in furniture and other products
Prepare and install skylights, showcases and aquariums and stained or other special glass in churches, museums, sports and other establishments
Repair and service residential windows, commercial aluminum doors and other glass supporting structures, and replace damaged glass or faulty sealant
May prepare cost estimates for customers or clients.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$45,883
$62,568
$79,253
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
229expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school is usually required.
Completion of a three- or four-year apprenticeship program or A combination of over four years of work experience in the trade and some high school, college or industry courses in glazing is usually required to be eligible for trade certification.
Trade certification for glaziers is compulsory in Quebec and available, but voluntary, in all other provinces and the territories.
Additional information
The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.
Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.
Certification requirements
Optional: The following certifications are optional to practice as Glaziers in B.C.
- Skilled Trades Certification - Glaziers
- Glazier Red Seal Certification
Skilled Trades Certification - Glaziers
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a glazier in B.C., you may need a SkilledTradesBC certification demonstrating that you have completed the necessary technical training and work experience part of your apprenticeship program.
Glazier Red Seal Certification
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
This career is eligible for Red Seal endorsement. When all levels of your trades training are complete, you can write an Interprovincial Red Seal exam. A successful result demonstrates you have met the national standard for your trade in Canada will allow you to practice your trade outside of B.C. in provinces and territories covered by the Red Seal certification.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
No programs available in B.C.
There are currently no programs offered at public post-secondary institutions in B.C. that will qualify you for this career. Please see the SkilledTradesBC website for other options.