Window fitter
Install windows, doors and other glass surfaces to brighten up people's homes and businesses.
About the job
What it's like
You would install windows, doors and other glass surfaces to brighten up people's homes and businesses.
You would:
Remove old windows and doors with hand and power tools
Measure the space(s) for the new windows or doors
Fix the glass in place, making sure it is safe and level
Seal the fittings to protect against the weather
Clean away leftover materials and fix any damage to timber or plaster
You would normally be helped by a fitter's ‘mate’.
You might work with traditional wooden- and metal-framed products as well as modern UPVC units. You could also learn the special skills needed to repair and replace windows in old buildings.
As well as fitting windows on site, you may sometimes work on making the glass sheets. You’d need an awareness of safe working practices when handling glass.
Hours
You would work around 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday, with possible overtime when necessary.
Environment
You would work both indoors and outside, using ladders or scaffolding to reach the upper storeys of buildings. The work can be physically demanding, with heavy lifting involved.
Travel
You would normally need a driving licence and access to a van to move equipment from job to job.
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Construction and built environment
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From March 2024 to March 2025.
- public liability
- power tool operation
- window and door installation
- carpentry
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- working with numbers
- observation
- verbal communication
- attention to detail
- developing a plan
- implementing ideas
- managing resources
- time management
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Practical Craft Skills
Practical Woodwork
Skills for Work: Construction Craft
You can enter a Modern Apprenticeship and gain a relevant work-based qualification such as a Scottish Vocational Qualification in Glass Industry Occupations (SCQF Level 5/6). You usually need to pass an aptitude test to enter this role.
You do not always need formal qualifications but National 4 or National 5 qualifications (SCQF level 4/5) would be helpful.
Relevant qualifications and experience in carpentry or other crafts such as Skills for Work Construction Crafts (SCQF level 4/5).
You must hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent and pass a health and safety test to work and train on construction sites.
A driving licence is useful and often essential.
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