Glassmaker
The Work
Glassmakers produce glass products such as bottles, jars, mirrors, windows, goblets, decanters, vases, vehicle windows, laboratory apparatus, glass wool, and optical fibres for communication systems. Glassmakers heat the ingredients with scrap glass (also known as cullet) in a furnace. The ingredients for window glass, cheap glasses or bottles are silica (sand), lime and soda. For expensive crystal glass they add potassium nitrate, potassium carbonate and red lead. At a high temperature the mixture becomes liquid and as it cools, they form it into different shapes.
A glassmaker's work may include glassblowing, finishing, bending, lathe working, decorating and designing. Most jobs are done by machines, but in crystal and scientific glassware factories some work is still done by hand. Those who work in craft studios or workshops probably undertake all these jobs.
Hours and Conditions
Most glassmakers work a five day 39 hour week. Some companies operate a shift system and overtime is often available.
The work takes place in a factory, studio or workshop. The workplace can be hot and noisy. Glass blowing and bending is carried out standing up, most other jobs are done sitting down. Workers wear titanium goggles and protective clothes.
Skills and Interests
As a glassmaker, you need to:
Training
NVQs / SVQs are available at levels 2 and 3 in Glass Manufacturing and Glass Processing.
An open learning qualification in glass manufacture is available through Glass Training Ltd. The first two sections lead to City and Guilds. The further five sections are certified by Dudley College of Technology and Glass Training Ltd.
BTEC HND and degree courses in glass technology or in three-dimensional studies are available at a number of colleges and universities, as are a number of subject related courses at these levels.
Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships (MAPPs) may be available for people aged 16-24. For details see:
MAPPs
(England)
Skillseekers
(Scotland)
National
Traineeships MAPPs (Wales) and
MAPPs
(Northern Ireland)
Opportunities
There are opportunities for work as a glassmaker, especially in the West Midlands, London and parts of Scotland, although increased automation has caused a decline in jobs. Most openings are with companies producing lead crystal glassware and in universities with glass production units making laboratory equipment.
There are some opportunities for glass workers to move into supervisory or management positions. Those with good business skills could be self-employed.
Salary
The figures below are intended as a guideline only.
Salaries start at around £8,700+ a year.
With around five years' experience, earnings could rise to between £9,500 and £13,000+ a year.
Some glassmakers can earn between £16,000 and £18,500+ per year.
Further Information
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Glass Training Ltd
Tel: 0114 263 2430
www.glass-training.co.uk
Glass Qualifications Authority Ltd
Tel: 0114 272 0033
www.glassqualificationsauthority.com
Proskills
Tel: 01235 833844
www.proskills.co.uk/
Crafts Council
Tel: 020 7278 7700
www.craftscouncil.org.uk
British Society of Scientific Glassblowers
Tel: 01245 493493
www.bssg.co.uk
Arts Advice
Tel: 0800 093 0444
www.artsadvice.com
