Window Fitter

Job Description:

Window fitters install windows, conservatories and glazed curtain walls in homes and businesses.

Job Category:

Engineering & Construction

See Engineering & Construction jobs

What you will do:

In this job, you would:

measure up where new glazed units will go
remove old windows, doors and panels, using hand and power tools
fix new windows, doors and glazed panels into place
readjust surrounding timber or brickwork to make sure fittings are secure
seal fitted units to make them weatherproof
add trims or special finishes
clear away leftover building materials
issue a work completion certificate to the property owner

Skills:

You’ll need:

knowledge of building and construction
knowledge of maths
the ability to operate and control equipment
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

As well as:

to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
the ability to work well with your hands
customer service skills
physical fitness and endurance

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

a college course
an apprenticeship
working towards the role
applying directly

College

You could start by taking a college course in construction or joinery. These courses would teach you some of the skills you need in this job and may help you when looking for a trainee position with a glazing company.

In the UK, for example, courses include:

Certificate in Construction Skills
Award in Carpentry and Joinery

Apprenticeship

You can get into this job by doing a fenestration installer intermediate apprenticeship.

Work

You could be taken on by a glazing company as a fitter’s assistant or ‘mate’ and learn on the job by working with an experienced fitter.

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.

Experience in carpentry and joinery may be helpful.

Registration

You’ll need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card (in the UK) or equivalent to train and work on a construction site

Working Hours and Environment:

A typical week consists of 43-45 hours of work. You could be required to work evenings/weekends on shifts.

You could work at a client’s home 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 & Progression:

You could become a site supervisor, window surveyor or estimator, or move into glazing sales and marketing.

You could also set up your own business or take up a window fitting franchise.