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SOC 5317 Skilled construction and building trades

Glaziers, window fabricators and fitters Salary

Median salary £28,623 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.

About this role

Glaziers, window fabricators and fitters join, cut, shape and fabricate metal components and structures using specialist equipment and techniques. They work from engineering drawings to produce components that meet precise specifications for strength, finish and dimensional accuracy.

Key responsibilities

  • Welding, cutting and fabricating metal components
  • Reading and interpreting engineering drawings and specifications
  • Setting up and operating welding and fabrication equipment
  • Inspecting finished work for quality and dimensional accuracy
  • Following health and safety procedures for hot work and metalworking

Qualifications and entry routes

Typically requires an apprenticeship or NVQ Level 2/3. Coded welder certifications (BS EN ISO 9606) are essential for structural and pressure vessel work. CSCS or specialist site cards may be required.

Career outlook

Skills shortage in coded welding and specialist fabrication. Nuclear, offshore and infrastructure projects drive consistent demand.

Key skills

Welding techniques (MIG, TIG, MMA) Technical drawing interpretation Precision measurement Quality inspection Safety awareness

Common industries

  • Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Oil and gas
  • Shipbuilding
  • Automotive

Data coverage

SOC code 5317
Data source ONS ASHE
Years available 2021–2025
Estimated jobs 17,000

Median Salary

£28,623

Mean Salary

£30,060

Jobs (000s)

17k

Data Years

5 years

Salary Range (2025)

P25: £24,759Median: £28,623P75: £35,304
P10: --P25: £25kMedian: £29kP75: £35kP90: --

Estimated Career Progression

Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation

Entry Level

£24,759

0-2 years

Mid Level

£24,759

3-7 years

Senior

£35,304

8-15 years

Potential career growth: +43% from entry to leadership

Salary Trend (2021-2025)

Nominal growth: +23.8%Real growth: +0.4%

Gender Pay Comparison (2025)

Full-time vs All Employees (2025)

All Employees

£28,623

Full-time Only

£29,436

Full-time premium: +£813