Hands-onOperate glass blowing equipment including pipes, torches, and lathes to shape molten glass according to specified patterns and designs in production settings.
Proficient
Hands-onManipulate molten glass materials using hand tools such as tongs, shears, and knives while maintaining precise temperature control.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate glass product quality and compliance with design specifications using precision measuring instruments including dial calipers and digital micrometers.
Developing
Hands-onExecute annealing and heat treatment processes using ovens and kilns to relieve internal stresses in finished glass products.
Developing
KnowledgeApply knowledge of production and processing techniques to optimize glass forming operations and maintain production efficiency.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze mechanical properties and thermal behavior of glass materials to prevent defects such as cracking, warping, or stress fractures during fabrication.
Developing
Hands-onPerform finishing operations including grinding, polishing, and sandblasting to achieve specified surface characteristics and dimensional tolerances.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate glass working machinery and heating equipment following safety protocols and maintenance schedules to ensure consistent operation.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret technical drawings and design patterns to accurately reproduce custom glass components and artistic pieces.
Developing
MindsetEngage in collaborative communication with supervisors and team members to coordinate production schedules and address quality concerns.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Glass Blowers, Molders, Benders, and Finishers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
34,750
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $34,950. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,500. 50th percentile: U.S. $45,690. 75th percentile: U.S. $51,340. 90th percentile: U.S. $61,050. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$34,950
10% of workers earn the following or more
$61,050
Workers on average earn
$46,730
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Production and Processing3.8/5
Design3.7/5
Mechanical3.2/5
Engineering and Technology3.1/5
Customer and Personal Service3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
