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Apprentice Glassblower Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Glassworker

Milton, WV

$29.30K - $39.60K/yr

This is a paid 5 year apprenticeship (employment continues after the 5 years) and we teach you ... Glassblower or Finisher. While it takes many years to become a master glassworker, this is an ...

Apprentice Glassblower information

See salary details

$12

$22

$37

How much do apprentice glassblower jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice glassblower in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Glassblower, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Glassblower, you need manual dexterity, attention to detail, a basic understanding of glass properties, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with glassblowing tools like blowpipes, kilns, and safety equipment, as well as completion of safety training, is typically required. Strong teamwork, patience, and a willingness to learn are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safety, craftsmanship, and effective collaboration in the demanding environment of glassblowing studios.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice glassblowers, and how can they overcome them?

Apprentice glassblowers often encounter challenges such as mastering temperature control, developing hand-eye coordination, and safely handling hot materials. The learning curve can be steep, with mistakes leading to broken pieces or safety risks. To overcome these challenges, apprentices should be patient, seek feedback from experienced glassblowers, and consistently practice their techniques. Working closely with mentors and staying attentive to safety protocols also helps build confidence and skill in this hands-on, collaborative environment.

What does an apprentice glassblower do?

An apprentice glassblower learns the art and craft of shaping molten glass under the guidance of experienced glassblowers. Their duties typically include assisting with preparing materials, maintaining equipment, gathering and blowing glass, and practicing basic techniques. Apprentices gradually take on more complex tasks as they develop their skills, with a focus on safety and precision. The apprenticeship provides hands-on experience and helps build a foundation for a career in glassblowing.

How much do glassblowers get paid?

Glassblowers, including apprentice glassblowers, typically earn between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and skill level. Entry-level apprentices often start at the lower end of this range and can increase earnings as they gain proficiency and certifications in glassworking techniques.

What is the difference between Apprentice Glassblower vs Journeyman Glassblower?

AspectApprentice GlassblowerJourneyman Glassblower
CredentialsOn-the-job training, no formal certification requiredCompleted apprenticeship, often certified or licensed
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised tasksIndependent work, advanced projects
Experience LevelEntry-level, learning skillsSkilled, experienced craftsperson
Industry UsageTraining stage in glassmaking industryProfessional, capable of independent work

In summary, an Apprentice Glassblower is in the training phase, gaining foundational skills under supervision, while a Journeyman Glassblower has completed training and can work independently on complex projects.

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Infographic showing various Apprentice Glassblower job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,806 per year, or $22 per hour.
Entry Level Glassworker

$29.30K - $39.60K/yr

Other

Posted 16 hours ago


Job description

Blenko Glass, a leader in the design and production of handcrafted glass, and has an exciting opportunity for Apprentice Glassworkers at our Milton, WV factory. The primary objective in this role is to learn and understand the glass making processes and how to work safely with other production workers around you. This position is an opportunity for a motivated individual to grow as a professional in the Glassblowing trade in a fast-paced environment.  This is a paid 5 year apprenticeship (employment continues after the 5 years) and we teach you everything you need to know about glassmaking.
The goal of your time at Blenko is to master as many glassworking skills as possible, as quickly as possible, with the expectation that one day you will become a master Glassblower or Finisher. While it takes many years to become a master glassworker, this is an opportunity for a career in glassmaking that you can retire from. You will have the opportunity to work with masters of the glassblowing craft with over 40 years of experience, and you will be expected to learn as much as possible from them during your time here. 

After orientation and safety training, you will be placed in production and trained to do a specific role as part of a small team. Each member of the team will be expected to quickly learn and master the skills demonstrated to them, and will rotate through multiple positions for the duration of training so that you can gain a full knowledge of the apprenticeship program at Blenko.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Maintain a clean work area, setting up the shop for production, and cleaning the shop area at the end of each shift
  • Maintain a safe work environment following all protocols and safety standards
  • Learn maintenance of the shop area, pipes, tools, moulds, etc.
  • Learn and perform basic skills of carrying-in, mould holding, and eventually advanced skills like sticking up, gathering, and finishing glass products based on your performance


Required Qualifications:

  • Interest in the processes of production glasswork
  • Ability to withstand working around hot furnaces for at least 8 hours. Heat tolerance is critical as our production floor can reach very high temperatures
  • Must be able to lift up to twenty (20) pounds of glass frequently through an 8 hour shift and occasionally lift up to 50lb. cast iron moulds
  • Ability to comprehend written and verbal instructions and communication
  • High School diploma or G.E.D. preferred
  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Able to work fast and efficient and willing to work occasional overtime
  • Understanding of basic math, reading, and writing skills
  • Related experience or coursework preferred but not required
  • Ability to effectively communicate


Success Factors:

  • Team player
  • Exceptional attention to detail and focus
  • Exceptional hand-eye coordination
  • Comfortable working in front a public audience (our production floor has a Visitor’s Viewing Area)


Physical Demands & Work Environment:

  • Ability to withstand high temperatures is a must. Glass temperatures can reach up to 2,400 degrees in the furnace and it can create high temperatures on the production floor
  • The work exposes the employee to extreme light and heat, P.P.E. is supplied
  • Requires standing, sitting, walking, stooping, crouching, kneeling, leaning, and using steps for 8+ hour shifts
  • Consistently using arms, wrist, hands, and fingers to manipulate tools and shape hot glass and keep the glass constantly moving on the blowpipe and in any moulds that may be used
  • Production of certain items requires lifting the glass head high
  • Regularly lift moulds made of wood, graphite, or cast iron that weigh up to 50 pounds.
  • Exposure to dust, airborne particles, moving mechanical parts, noise, and equipment that is hot to the touch