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Glass Maker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Journey Mold Maker Role Description: To repair mold equipment by utilizing various tools and ... About Ardagh Group Ardagh Glass Packaging is a global leader in glass packaging solutions ...

Journey Mold Maker Role Description: To repair mold equipment by utilizing various tools and ... About Ardagh Group Ardagh Glass Packaging is a global leader in glass packaging solutions ...

Journey Mold Maker Role Description: To repair mold equipment by utilizing various tools and ... About Ardagh Group Ardagh Glass Packaging is a global leader in glass packaging solutions ...

Craftsman

Escondido, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

A craftsman has met all expectations of a cabinet maker, has the capacity, drive and passion to ... Metals, plastics, stone and glass. * Clear understanding of the buildability and longevity of ...

Craftsman

Escondido, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

A craftsman has met all expectations of a cabinet maker, has the capacity, drive and passion to ... Metals, plastics, stone and glass. * Clear understanding of the buildability and longevity of ...

Bartender

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$2 - $25/hr

... decision-maker, memorabilia curator and musician (at heart). * Making drinks to spec recipe ... Performing opening, closing & side duties - setting up/breaking down the bar, cleaning glass ...

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Glass Maker information

See California salary details

$10

$16

$23

How much do glass maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for glass maker in California is $16.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a glass maker?

Glass makers are skilled artisans or technicians who create objects out of glass, such as windows, bottles, art pieces, and laboratory equipment. They use techniques like blowing, molding, casting, or cutting to shape molten or solid glass into finished products. Glass makers may work in factories, studios, or workshops, and their work often requires precision, creativity, and knowledge of various tools and safety practices. The role can include both traditional handcrafting methods and modern industrial processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a glass maker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Glass Maker, you need a solid understanding of glass properties, manual dexterity, and foundational training in glassblowing or glassworking techniques, often gained through apprenticeships or vocational programs. Familiarity with tools such as furnaces, kilns, molds, and safety equipment is essential, along with knowledge of specialized processes like annealing and cutting. Creativity, attention to detail, and patience are vital soft skills that help produce high-quality, intricate glass pieces. These skills are crucial for ensuring both the artistic and structural integrity of glass products while maintaining a safe and efficient workspace.

What are some common challenges faced by glass makers during production, and how are they addressed?

Glass makers often encounter challenges such as controlling furnace temperatures, achieving consistency in thickness, and preventing defects like bubbles or cracks in the glass. These issues are typically addressed through careful monitoring of the melting and forming processes, regular maintenance of equipment, and close collaboration with team members such as mold designers and quality inspectors. Continuous learning and attention to detail are key, as even small variations can impact the final product's quality.

What is the difference between Glass Maker vs Glass Cutter?

AspectGlass MakerGlass Cutter
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training in glass manufacturingHigh school diploma or equivalent; training in cutting techniques
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plantsWorkshops, manufacturing floors
Industry UsageGlass production, art, and industrial applicationsGlass fabrication, window and art glass creation

Glass Makers are involved in creating and shaping glass products, often working in manufacturing settings, while Glass Cutters focus on cutting and shaping existing glass pieces. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, but their primary tasks differ, with Glass Makers producing glass and Glass Cutters refining it for specific uses.

Do glass makers make money?

Glass makers typically earn wages that vary based on experience, location, and skill level. Entry-level positions may start at minimum wage, while experienced artisans or those working in specialized industries can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by benefits. Certification and proficiency with tools like blowpipes or furnaces can also influence earning potential.

How do you become a glass maker?

To become a glass maker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue an apprenticeship or technical training in glassblowing or glass manufacturing. Developing skills in working with high temperatures, using specialized tools, and understanding safety procedures is essential; some positions also require certification or formal education in related fields.

How much do glass makers get paid?

Glass makers typically earn a median annual wage of around $35,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and skill level. Skilled glassmakers with certifications or specialized techniques can earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing or artistic settings.

What are popular job titles related to Glass Maker jobs in California?

For Glass Maker jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Glass Maker jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Glass Maker jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Glass Maker job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,994 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Journeyman Mold Maker

Ardagh Group

Madera, CA • On-site

$42.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Ardagh Group rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 120 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Journey Mold Maker
Role Description:
To repair mold equipment by utilizing various tools and equipment to weld, file, grind, vent, polish, letter cut, lathe work, millwork etc.
Key Responsibilities:
• Weld, grind, file, machine, and polish mold equipment and return equipment to specifications.
• Inspect mold equipment when needed.
• Run surface grinder when reducing mold equipment.
• Use manual lathe and milling machines when required for repairing mold equipment.
• Use gauges to verify equipment is to correct dimensions.
• Keep work area clean and follow safe working practices.
• Inform supervisor of irregularities of materials and mold equipment.
Qualifications:
Must be at least 18 years of age.
High school graduate or equivalent. A diploma or GED Certificate is required.
Must be a Journeyman Mold Maker.
Applicants must be physically qualified to work at the trade.
Environment and Physical Requirements
• This is an hourly position in a union environment.
• Candidates must be able to swing shifts alternating between 1st, 2nd, and 3rd as necessary
• Must be able to work in hot temperatures.
• 100% inside work
• Noise level 70 dbs
• Comply with Environmental and Food Safety standards as set forth in plant policies/programs within department responsibilities.
Compensation
The anticipated base annual salary range for this role is $42.20 per hour. Please note that the salary range provided is a good faith estimate. The final salary will be determined after considering relevant factors, including a candidate's qualifications and experience, where appropriate.
About Ardagh Group
Ardagh Glass Packaging is a global leader in glass packaging solutions, producing packaging for the world's leading brands. We trace our roots all the way back to the Irish Glass Bottle Company, founded in 1932. Since then, we have grown rapidly to a team of more than 20,000 people with revenues of over $9 billion.
Today we have a presence across Europe, Africa, and North America.
  • Did you know that Ardagh produce many of the beverage cans and bottles you drink your favorite beverages from?
  • Did you know we produce metal and glass packaging which are permanent materials, meaning they can be infinitely recycled without any loss of quality?
  • Did you know we produce more than 160 million containers per day?

Ardagh is passionate about sustainability and have a reputation for innovation. We push the boundaries of what's possible, pioneering new production methods, new design techniques and new ways to recycle and save energy. Our aim is to reduce any negative environmental impact while remaining economically sustainable and socially responsible. We believe that the success of our business depends on the success of our people. We strive to create working environments where our employees feel valued, can work to their full potential, and where their achievements are celebrated. Here at Ardagh, we offer exciting and rewarding opportunities for talented and creative people. If you have ambition and want to make an impact with your career, come and join our team, you'll enjoy the journey!
Benefits Offered:
  • Medical, prescription, dental and vision plans
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Paid holidays and vacation
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability (STD/LTD)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Apprenticeship programs
  • Professional and personal development opportunities through Employee Resource Groups

Ardagh Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, and local law.
Ardagh Group complies with federal, state, and local disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. Contact Kelly Molloy (kelly.molloy@ardaghgroup.com) if a reasonable accommodation is needed.

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