Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers
Overview
Automotive glass installers and repairers fix and replace windshields, windows, and other glass components in cars, trucks, and other vehicles. They examine damaged glass to determine if it can be repaired with special resins or needs complete replacement, then carefully remove old glass, clean and prepare frames, and install new glass using advanced adhesives and sealants. This hands-on career requires technical training, steady hands, and attention to detail, with opportunities to work in auto shops, dealerships, or mobile repair services. Many professionals in this field complete vocational programs or apprenticeships to learn the latest repair techniques and safety procedures.
Did you know?
Most employers require completion of specialized auto glass training programs and many states mandate certification for handling automotive glass installation and repair.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$48,038.26 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Critical Thinking
Key Responsibilities
- Apply a bead of urethane around the perimeter of each pinchweld and dress the remaining urethane on the pinchwelds so that it is of uniform level and thickness.
- Install rubber channeling strips around edges of glass or frames to weatherproof windows or to prevent rattling.
- Install new foam dams on pinchwelds, if required.
- Select appropriate tools, safety equipment, and parts, according to job requirements.
- Cool or warm glass in the event of temperature extremes.
- Replace all moldings, clips, windshield wipers, or other parts that were removed prior to glass replacement or repair.
- Cut flat safety glass according to specified patterns or perform precision pattern making and glass cutting to custom fit replacement windows.
- Obtain windshields or windows for specific automobile makes and models from stock and examine them for defects prior to installation.
- Install, repair, or replace safety glass and related materials, such as back glass heating elements, on vehicles or equipment.
- Remove broken or damaged glass windshields or window glass from motor vehicles, using hand tools to remove screws from frames holding glass.
- Remove moldings, clips, windshield wipers, screws, bolts, and inside A-pillar moldings and lower headliners in preparation for installation or repair work.
- Hold cut or uneven edges of glass against automated abrasive belts to shape or smooth edges.
- Prime all scratches on pinchwelds with primer and allow to dry.
- Check for and remove moisture or contamination in damaged areas and keep areas dry until repairs are complete.
- Allow all glass parts installed with urethane ample time to cure, taking temperature and humidity into account.
- Replace or adjust motorized or manual window-raising mechanisms.
- Remove all dirt, foreign matter, and loose glass from damaged areas, apply primer along windshield or window edges, and allow primer to dry.
- Install replacement glass in vehicles.
Career Considerations
Training and Certification Requirements
Most employers require completion of specialized auto glass training programs and many states mandate certification for handling automotive glass installation and repair.
Physical Demands and Safety Risks
The job involves working with sharp glass, adhesives, and power tools while often working in uncomfortable positions, requiring strong attention to safety protocols.
Stable Market Demand
The profession offers consistent employment opportunities due to ongoing vehicle accidents, weather-related damage, and the large number of vehicles on American roads.