Window fitter
Window fitters install windows, conservatories and glazed curtain walls in homes and businesses.
Salary Range: £15,000 to £25,000
How to become a window fitter
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- working towards the role
- applying directly
Apprenticeship
You could get into this job through an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship in glass industry fenestration installation.
Entry requirements
You’ll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More information
Work
You could be taken on by a glazing company as a fitter’s ‘mate’ or assistant and learn the skills you need on the job.
Direct application
You can apply directly to become a window fitter. There are no set entry requirements, though you’ll need maths skills to measure and work out dimensions. Employers may ask for GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C).
Experience in carpentry and joinery will also be helpful.
More information
Registration
- you’ll need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to train and work on a construction site
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a window fitter or glazier from Go Construct.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You’ll need:
- knowledge of building and construction
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others
- ambition and a desire to succeed
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- persistence and determination
- knowledge of maths
- the ability to work well with your hands
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restrictions and requirements
You’ll need to:
- have a full driving licence
What you’ll do
Day-to-day tasks
Your day-to-day duties may include:
- removing old windows and doors with hand and power tools
- measuring up the space for new windows or doors
- fixing units in place, making sure they’re level and secure
- sealing fittings to make them weathertight
- clearing away leftover materials
Working environment
You could work at a manufacturing plant or on a construction site.
Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time and at height.
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a window surveyor or estimator, or move into glazing sales and marketing.
You could set up your own business or take up a window fitting franchise.