An auto glass installer is a highly-specialized career within the automotive industry. A person who learns to install auto glass can be assured of job availability for many years, as the automotive industry remains strong.
Auto glass installers install windshields and side windows in cars. Most auto glass installers work at auto repair shops, dealerships, or at specialty shops which only perform auto glass installations. They may replace Greensboro Auto Glass glass that has been cracked, broken or otherwise damaged or change out auto glass for a customer who wants a specialized type of glass installed in his car, such as polarized, tinted or UV-protectant glass. In some cases, auto glass installers may simply repair damaged glass with a glazing process. If they replace a windshield, they must prepare the glass edges with a drying compound, then fit the glass into the car and apply rubber weather-stripping to mount it in place.
An auto glass installer needs to be in good physical condition and be strong enough to work with heavy sheets of glass. He needs to be able to spend most of his day standing. He must be comfortable working with heavy machinery, and he has to have some mechanical knowledge to keep his tools and equipment working. He has to have an affinity for working with cars, but he also must have customer service skills, as he’ll spend a lot of time dealing with customers, finding out what they need and making sure they’re happy with the service provided.
Auto glass installers need to have a high school diploma or GED, then they must take a specialized training course in auto glass installation. In some cases, this course may take as little as six months to complete. After a student has finished an auto glass installation training course, he can apply for certification through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. This is voluntary, but recommended. The National Glass Association also has a certification available for auto glass installers.
Auto glass installers can expect to earn, on average, $15 an hour. This may increase with experience. Installers at specialty shops may earn more than those at general auto repair shops.