What Does an Architectural Glass & Metal Technician (Glazier/ Metal Mechanic) Do?

Architectural Glass & Metal Technicians cut, fit and install various types of glass in metal and wooden frames, and sometimes work with glass substitutes such as plastic.   

Job -Related Skills, Interests and Values

•  Performing layout, fabricating, assembling and installing frames, hardware, storefronts, wall facings, manual sliding doors, window sashes, manual door closers, automatic door operators and certain walls
• Laying out, fabricating, assembling and installing suspended glass fronts, stuck glass fronts, auto glass, art glass and other special products
• Cutting, fitting and installing glass in wood and metal frames for windows, skylights, store fronts and display cases, or on building fronts, interior walls, ceilings, tables and other similar surfaces
• Reading and interpreting design drawings, manufacturer’s instructions and installation diagrams
• Operating hoists and cranes to position glass in place
• Communicating effectively with co-workers, other contractors and supervisors

To view the Essential Skills required to work as a Glazier (NOC code 7292), click on the following link: http://www10.hrsdc.gc.ca/ES/English/ShowProfile.aspx?v=215

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

You should preferably complete Grade 12 and preferably obtain with your secondary school diploma, with credits in Mathematics, English, Science, and technical courses such as drafting or blueprint reading and other shop courses. (The minimum entry requirement is Grade 10 under the TQA). You must complete an apprenticeship of 8,000 hours of on-the-job and in-school training, before successfully writing an examination to obtain your Certificate of Qualification.

What’s Your Future as an Architectural Glass & Metal Technician (Glazier/ Metal Mechanic)?

Glaziers usually work forty hours per week. Those who are involved in the construction field may need to work overtime to meet deadlines. As well, willingness to work outside in all sorts of weather is necessary, and sometimes on scaffolding at heights. Some glaziers specialize in such areas as auto body or refrigeration glasswork. Glaziers face a risk of injury from falls and sharp tools or jagged glass. Glaziers can work independently or as a member of a team; in a union or non-union environment. If employed in the construction field, seasonality can be a factor. Employers who hire glaziers include:

• Construction firms
• Architects
• Interior Design companies
• Glazier shops

For additional information about this career, check out the construction sector website at: www.CareersInConstruction.ca.

Wage Rate

• Apprentices generally earn less than fully qualified journeypeople
• As your skills and expertise increase, so does your wage
• Fully qualified Glaziers earn wages that may vary depending on the location of the employment and union affiliation; generally wages range from $15.00-25.00/hr.

Self-Rating

Ask Yourself: Is Working as an Architectural Glass & Metal Technician (Glazier/Metal Mechanic) for You?

Can you stretch, bend, kneel or stand for long periods?	Yes      No
Are you willing to work indoors or outdoors in all types of weather, or at heights?	Yes      No
Can you look at a diagram or blueprint and visualize how things come together?	Yes      No
Do you enjoy working with your hands using hand and power tools?	Yes      No
Do you have good upper body strength to carry and lift heavy pieces of glass?	Yes      No
Do you pay attention to detail and persist until things are done just right?	Yes      No
Can you work well independently or as a member of a team?	Yes      No

If you answered Yes to most of these questions, a career as an Architectural Glass & Metal Technician  (Glazier/Metal Mechanic) may be for you!

You may also want to explore other careers that require similar interests and skills, such as:

• Bricklayer
• Lather-Interior Systems
• Painter
• Roofer
• Tile setter