Window fabricator

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• applying directly

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You could apply to do a Fenestration Fabricator Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship with a manufacturing company.

This takes 1 year and 6 months to complete.

Entry requirements:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

Work

You could begin work as a general production worker or labourer with a window manufacturer and work your way up. There are courses you can do while working to help you get into more skilled fabrication jobs.

You could also start as a window fitter and move into fabrication work.

DirectApplication

You can apply directly for jobs. Employers set their own entry requirements, though you'll need maths skills for taking measurements along with good practical skills.

Experience of general manufacturing and trades like window fitting or joinery may also be useful.

Further Information

You can get more details about careers in window fabrication from Building Our Skills.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Skills:

• knowledge of maths
• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• knowledge of building and construction
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to use your initiative
• physical skills like movement, coordination and dexterity
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• leadership skills
• design skills and knowledge
• observation and recording skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to work well with your hands
• excellent verbal communication skills
• concentration skills
• active listening skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• complex problem-solving skills

What you'll do:

Window fabricators make windows, doors, glass panels and curtain walls for homes and businesses.

As a window fabricator, you could:

• measure, cut and drill materials like UPVC, aluminium and wood
• interpret design plans and operate CNC machinery
• assemble window and door frames, conservatory panels and screens
• fit seals, hinges, handles and locks using hand and power tools
• check the quality of finished products ready for delivery
• assist with on-site surveys on potential jobs

Location : You could work in a factory, in a workshop, at a client's business or at a client's home.
Environment : Your working environment may be physically active.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £20,000
Experienced : £27,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 42 hours a week

Working Pattern is between 8am and 6pm flexibly

Career Path:

With experience, you could move into supervisory or quality control positions. You might become a warehouse, production or trade counter manager.

You could also use your skills to work in other areas of manufacturing, like CNC machining.