Window fitters install new or replacement windows and doors in houses and commercial premises. They work with wood, aluminium, UPVC and glass. They work in small teams, often a fitter and an assistant.

The Work

You could be:

• removing old windows and doors using hand and power tools
• taking measurements for new fittings and making any changes needed to make the windows or doors fit properly
• fixing windows (single, double and triple glazed) and glass doors
• installing porches and conservatories
• fitting weather boards and UPVC or aluminium sealant around the window or door
• carrying out minor joinery and repairing the plasterwork
• repairing or replacing windows in old buildings such as churches
• clearing away materials left after the job is finished.

Pay

The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary, depending on:

• where you work
• the size of the company or organisation you work for
• the demand for the job.

As of June 2023 the Building and Allied Trades Joint Industrial Council (BATJIC) recommends the following rates for a 2-year apprenticeship based on a 39-hour week are:

Year 1 – £237.46 (£6.09 an hour)
Year 2 – £316.02 (£8.10 an hour).

Please note these rates may vary if the Apprentice is 21 years old or over and has completed the first year of their apprenticeship. National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW) will apply.

Once qualified, salaries can range from £350 to over £900 a week or more. You may get extra allowances for overtime.

Conditions

• You will work in different locations, indoors and outside in all weathers.
• You would work around 40 hours a week. You might have to work overtime to finish a job on time.
• You will sometimes have to work at heights on ladders and scaffolding.
• You will lift heavy window units and glass.
• You might wear protective clothing, such as hard hat, safety footwear and gloves.

Useful Subjects

• Construction (SCQF Levels 4 and 5) (FA) (FA)
• Practical Craft Skills
• SfW Practical Experiences: Construction and Engineering

Getting In

• The normal entry route is through a Modern Apprenticeship with a glazing company.
• You do not always need formal qualifications, but some employers may ask for subjects at National 4 or 5 including English, Maths and a technological subject.
• You could study the Foundation Apprenticeship in Construction (SCQF Level 4 or 5) in S3-S6, which can help to get into a relevant Modern Apprenticeship. 
• You usually have to sit an aptitude test as part of the application process.
• A driving licence is useful and often essential.
• You must hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to work on a building site. You must pass a health and safety test to qualify for this scheme.

Look for jobs with a glazing or window fitting company, with a company specialising in building conservatories, or with a building contractor.

Job Outlook Scotland

Job Outlook Scotland and UK

  Scotland

2024

2710

2.7 %

RISE

2029

2782

  United Kingdom

2024

38769

3.7 %

RISE

2029

40199

LMI data powered by Lightcast

What Does it Take?

You need to have:

• good practical skills
• an awareness of health and safety, especially when working with glass
• stamina to carry materials and tools
• confidence when working at heights
• a pleasant approach when dealing with customers.

You need to be able to:

• measure accurately
• meet deadlines
• work alone or as part of a small team.

Training

• Training is on the job working with an experienced fitter as well as off the job at college or a training centre.
• During your apprenticeship you would study for SVQ Fenestration Installation at SCQF Level 5 and Fenestration Installation and Surveying at SCQF Level 6.

Getting On

• With experience, you could become a team leader, supervisor, window surveyor, estimator or move into sales.
• You might start up your own business or set up a window fitting franchise.
• If you have wide experience of complex work you could specialise in glazing historic buildings.

More Information

For more information please see organisation listed below:

• Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) 

Contacts

The following organisations may be able to provide further information.