Auto Glass Installers

Career summary

#4/4/19 lh

Auto glass installers inspect the cracks and chips in the glass and determine if it can be repaired. They remove old glass to replace windows. They dismantle door panels and window frames to access the cracked glass. Installers clean or replace window frames to prepare the vehicle for new glass. They may repair the motors that raise and lower windows.

Installers sometimes cut glass to fit. They measure the window frame, select the proper type of glass, and transfer the measurements to the new glass. They use a straight edge and a glasscutter to fit the glass to the frame. They may shape or smooth the edges of the cut glass by holding the glass against an abrasive belt.

Installers transfer finished glass to the vehicle. They often use suction cups to place the glass in position. They secure the glass using:

• Special tape
• Sealants
• Adhesives
• Bolts
• Rubber gaskets
• Metal clips
• Molding

Installers reassemble door panels and other trim pieces after glass is installed.

Some auto glass installers repair glass rather than install new glass. They force a liquid resin into the crack. They shine ultraviolet light on the resin to harden it.

Auto glass installers may work in shops or travel to customers' locations. Installers often write reports for customers and insurance companies.

Related careers

This career is part of the Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Auto Body Repairers
• Glaziers
• Precision Assemblers
• Vehicle Cleaners

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to auto glass installers.

• Inspect windshield or window to determine if glass can be repaired or must be replaced.
• Remove broken or damaged glass. Use hand tools to separate the glass from the frame.
• Inspect and clean window frame.
• Replace or adjust motorized or manual window-raising mechanisms.
• Select the proper windshield for the vehicle and examine it for defects.
• Select proper adhesives, tapes, primers, and cleaners.
• Cut flat safety glass according to specified pattern, using glass-cutter.
• Hold cut or uneven edge of glass against abrasive belt to shape or smooth edges.
• Install or attach tape, rubber-channeling strip, or other treatment around the edge of the glass or frame to weatherproof and fasten the glass.
• Repair cracked or chipped windows by injecting resin. Use ultraviolet light to harden the resin.
• Cool or warm glass if temperatures are extreme.

Common work activities

Auto glass installers perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Perform activities that use the whole body
• Handle and move objects
• Get information needed to do the job
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Perform for or work with the public
• Operate vehicles or mechanized equipment
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Think creatively
• Make decisions and solve problems

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, auto glass installers:

Interpersonal relationships

• Have a high level of social interaction with customers and coworkers.
• Are greatly responsible for the work done by others.
• Are responsible for the health and safety of customers.
• Often work as part of a team.

Physical work conditions

• Regularly wear gloves and safety glasses.
• Often get into awkward positions to reach cramped or hard-to-reach work places.
• Are often exposed to very hot or cold temperatures due to weather.
• Sometimes work in either very bright or very low light.
• May be exposed to sounds and noise levels that are loud or distracting, such as nearby traffic.
• Work indoors in shops or work outdoors from mobile glass repair trucks. They are more likely to work outdoors.
• Occasionally are exposed to hazardous situations and equipment that may produce cuts or scratches from broken glass.

Work performance

• Must be sure that all details of the job are performed and everything is done correctly. Errors could damage clients' vehicles.
• Repeat the same physical tasks.
• Sometimes make decisions without checking with a supervisor. Their decisions affect customers.
• Usually check with a supervisor first before setting daily tasks and goals.

Hours/travel

• Usually work 40 hours per week.
• Generally work a set schedule.

Physical demands

Auto glass installers frequently:

• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Stand for long periods of time.
• Repeat the same movements.
• Bend or twist their body.

It is important for auto glass installers to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• Understand the speech of another person.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for auto glass installers to be able to:

• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• See objects in very bright or glaring light.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• Move arms and legs quickly.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.

Skills and abilities

Auto glass installers need to:

Communicate

• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Understand spoken information.

Reason and problem solve

• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.

Work with things

• Install equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
• Determine the tools and equipment needed to do a job.

Perceive and visualize

• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Apprenticeship Programs
• Auto Body Repair

Training

To work as an auto glass installer, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete moderate-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

Some auto glass installers complete formal training programs. Auto glass installer training programs are available at professional-technical schools, two-year colleges, and some high schools. You can learn about auto glass installation while completing an auto body repair program.

On-the-job training

Most auto glass installers receive informal on-the-job training from an experienced worker. Trainees usually begin as a helper. Training generally lasts about one year.

Workers also receive short-term training provided by equipment manufacturers.

Washington apprenticeships

For further information on apprenticeships in Washington, contact:

Washington State Department of Labor and Industries
Apprenticeship Program 
PO Box 44530
Olympia, WA 98504-4530
360.902.5320

#Info above still okay 2/29/16 & 2/7/18 cj.

Helpful high school courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements . You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Auto Collision Technology
• Auto Detailing and Reconditioning
• Auto Repair Technology
• Introduction to Mechanics

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups  that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Employers prefer high school graduates who know how to use hand tools and can lift 80 pounds. Many require a valid driver's license and a good driving record. Some require applicants to pass a physical exam and a drug screening test.

Some employers are willing to train workers on the job. Others may require experience in auto glass installation or auto body repair.

Employers of mobile auto glass installers require that applicants have a commercial driver's license, a good driving record, and the ability to work independently.

Costs to workers

Most workers must provide their own hand tools. Workers who belong to a union must pay initiation fees and regular dues. Some may want to become certified by national organizations which charge a fee. Employers may pay for workers' certification.

Licensing/certification

A few states require a license to perform auto glass installation and repair. Requirements vary by state.

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

Wages vary by region of the country, employer, and the worker's level of experience.

Auto glass installers who work full time usually receive benefits. Common benefits include sick leave, paid vacation, and health insurance. 

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Major employers:

• Auto body and glass repair shops
• Motor vehicle dealerships

National outlook

Steady growth for this occupation will occur and several factors will contribute to this growth. There are more vehicles on the road leading to more accidents and more vehicles that need repair. More cars means there will be more cracked or otherwise damaged windshields as well.

Other factors may slow the growth of this occupation. Cars have better sensor and safety equipment so there may be fewer accidents.

Job prospects will be very good for people with formal training and certifications.

Other resources

AutoCare Careers 

References

Career cluster

• Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics

Career path

• Realistic (Technical)

O*Net  occupation

• Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers (49-3022.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed. Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful in these occupations, but usually is not needed.

DOT occupation

• Glass Installer (865.684-010) 

Holland occupational cluster

• Realistic/Conventional/Enterprising

COPSystem

• Technology Skilled