With Australia’s skills shortage showing no signs of relief in 2023, one in-demand trade is offering a clear pathway to high-earning jobs and great working conditions.
Glaziers are in high demand in 2023 – and more people need to pick up the glazing tools and undertake qualifications in glazing to keep the construction industry moving. This includes learning how to install glass used in residential and commercial developments and how architectural hardware for glass is used.
What does a glazier do?
Glass is everywhere – in homes, commercial buildings, and the vehicles we use daily. Glaziers install glass for facades, awnings, windows, doors, mirrors, skylights, balustrades, fencing, shower screens, splashbacks, and more. Glaziers not only measure, supply, and install the glass, but they also order everything needed to support the glass from specialist glass hardware suppliers like NFK Glazing & Industrial suppliers https://www.nfk.com.au/.
Why are glaziers so in-demand?
While most trades and technical jobs are facing skills shortages, glaziers are more in demand than ever because glass as a construction material is more popular than ever. Glass is a mainstay of modern architecture thanks to advances in glass technology. Laminated, tempered and heat-strengthened glass is safer and more widely applicable than many other construction materials. So while glass is appearing in more and more places, the number of qualified glaziers has not kept pace with market demand.
How much does a glazier earn?
According to job search websites, the average annual salary for glazier jobs in Australia ranges from $65,000 to $80,000. In reality, you can double that. A high proportion of glaziers are self-employed and earn between $120,000 and $200,000 per year – figures that do not show up in the statistics. The advertised hourly rates are between $25-35/hour, however, glaziers more commonly earn around $45-50/hour. Glazing companies are always on the lookout for qualified staff and there are opportunities for people who are seeking a new direction to receive training and support to learn a new trade.
What training do I need to become a glazier?
Glaziers need to complete a Certificate III in Glass and Glazing (MSF30418) as part of an apprenticeship. There are also opportunities to specialize in different areas of glass processing or glass installation, and becoming a certified Master Glazier with the Australian Glass Glazing Association will open doors to a variety of opportunities within the construction industry.
What type of person suits being a glazier?
The glass industry offers amazing opportunities for varied and interesting work. Glaziers need to combine practical skills with attention to detail, including learning to read plans, set out projects, and accuracy with measuring and installation. It’s also important to understand how the relevant safety considerations apply. An experienced glazier can also recommend different options for architectural hardware (the brackets, hinges, handles, fixings, and fasteners that keep the glass in place safely) for different applications depending on the budget, assembling conditions, glass thickness, and design considerations. Understanding the importance of architectural hardware for a glazier is a must!
Many glaziers are self-employed or work within a small business doing everything, from quoting jobs and ordering materials to transporting and installation of the glass on-site. The work is varied and usually comes with great working conditions. So if you’re thinking of swapping your career for a job with the potential for a high, stable income and clean work environment, it might be time to pick up the glazing tools and join this growing industry.
