Glazier Careers & Salary Information
Glaziers install glass in windows, skylights, storefronts, and curtain walls on commercial and residential buildings. The work requires precision and comfort with heights, and the pay reflects that.
National Salary Overview
Glazier Specialties
Glaziers can specialize in different areas, each with its own pay scale and career path.
Commercial Glazier
Installs storefront glass, interior partitions, and glass doors in commercial buildings. The most common glazier specialty with solid union work.
Residential Glazier
Replaces windows, mirrors, and shower enclosures in homes. Lower pay than commercial but steadier day-to-day work.
Curtain Wall Glazier
Installs aluminum and glass curtain wall systems on high-rise buildings. Works at significant heights and earns top-end glazier pay.
Auto Glass Technician
Replaces and repairs windshields and vehicle glass. Different career path from construction glazing, often working for a mobile service or shop.
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Glazier Salary by State
Click any state to see detailed salary data, top-paying cities, and union vs. non-union breakdowns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Glazier salaries in the United States vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level glaziers typically earn around 60-70% of the median wage, while experienced professionals and those with master-level credentials can earn 25-50% above the median.
Entry-level glaziers in the United States typically start at the lower end of the pay range, which reflects apprentice or helper-level positions. As you gain experience and complete your training program, your pay increases significantly within the first 2-3 years.
Yes. Union glaziers earn 15-30% more per hour on average than their non-union counterparts. When you factor in benefits like pensions, healthcare, and annuity contributions, the total compensation gap is even wider. However, union availability varies significantly by region.
The path to becoming a fully qualified glazier depends on the route you take. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trade school programs can be completed in 6-24 months, though you will still need field experience to reach journeyman level.
Glazier work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The national job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified glaziers have strong bargaining power. The work can be physically demanding, but many professionals find the trade rewarding and well-compensated.
Certifications can significantly boost a glazier's earning potential. Industry-recognized credentials, advanced specializations, and safety certifications all help you stand out to employers and command higher hourly rates. Master-level licenses typically result in the biggest pay increases.