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Scientific Glass Blower Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Scientific Glass Blower information

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$13

$31

$52

How much do scientific glass blower jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientific glass blower in the United States is $31.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $40.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a scientific glass blower?

Scientific glass blowers are skilled professionals who design, create, repair, and modify glassware used in scientific laboratories. They use techniques like blowing, shaping, and joining glass tubes and apparatus to precise specifications required for research and experiments. Their work is vital for producing custom equipment that cannot be purchased off-the-shelf, often collaborating closely with scientists and researchers. Scientific glass blowers typically work in universities, research institutions, and industrial labs.

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

To thrive as a Scientific Glass Blower, you need expertise in glass manipulation, precision fabrication, and a solid understanding of scientific equipment requirements, usually developed through apprenticeships or specialized technical training. Familiarity with glassworking lathes, torches, vacuum systems, and safety protocols is essential. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and effective problem-solving are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the safe, accurate creation and repair of custom scientific glassware critical for research and laboratory operations.

What are some common challenges faced by scientific glass blowers when creating custom laboratory apparatus?

Scientific glass blowers often encounter challenges such as working with complex designs that require precision and adaptability, especially when tailoring apparatus to unique research needs. Maintaining the integrity of the glass while shaping it at high temperatures requires skill and careful attention to detail. Additionally, glass blowers must frequently collaborate with scientists to understand their specifications, which can involve troubleshooting and refining prototypes. Balancing creativity and technical accuracy is key to successfully producing functional and reliable laboratory equipment.

What is the difference between Scientific Glass Blower vs Laboratory Glassware Technician?

AspectScientific Glass BlowerLaboratory Glassware Technician
CredentialsTypically requires specialized training or apprenticeship in glassblowingUsually holds a technical or associate degree in laboratory technology or related field
Work EnvironmentWorks in workshops or labs, creating custom glass apparatusWorks in laboratories, inspecting, repairing, and maintaining glassware
Industry UsageUsed in research, industrial, and medical settings for custom glasswareUsed in labs for standard and repair of glassware

The Scientific Glass Blower specializes in crafting custom glass equipment through skilled glassblowing, while the Laboratory Glassware Technician focuses on maintaining, repairing, and inspecting existing glassware in laboratory settings. Both roles require knowledge of glass properties, but their primary functions differ significantly.

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What cities are hiring for Scientific Glass Blower jobs?

Cities with the most Scientific Glass Blower job openings:

What states have the most Scientific Glass Blower jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Scientific Glass Blower jobs?

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Infographic showing various Scientific Glass Blower job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,473 per year, or $31.5 per hour.

Assistant Glass Blower -- Scientific Glass Manufacturing

Easton, MD • On-site

BR INSTRUMENT CORP
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 10 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Assistant Glass Blower — Scientific Glass ManufacturingLocation: Easton MD 21601
Job Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $20-30/hour, depending on experience
Shift: Day shift / Overtime available
About Us
BR Instrument manufactures precision scientific and laboratory glassware, including custom apparatus, tubing assemblies, and fabricated components for research, industrial, and pharmaceutical clients. We're looking for an Assistant Glass Blower to support our lampworkers and glassblowers in producing high-precision borosilicate and quartz glass components.
Job Description
The Assistant Glass Blower supports scientific glassblowers (lampworkers) in fabricating, repairing, and modifying laboratory and industrial glass equipment. This role involves working with torches, lathes, and precision glass tubing to help produce components that meet exact specifications and tight tolerances. This is a great opportunity for someone with foundational glasswork experience who wants to build a career in scientific/technical glassblowing.
Responsibilities
●        Assist scientific glassblowers with fabrication, repair, and modification of laboratory glassware (flasks, condensers, manifolds, tubing assemblies, custom apparatus)
●        Set up and operate glassworking lathes, torches, and annealing ovens
●        Cut, join, and shape borosilicate and/or quartz glass under supervision
●        Measure and verify dimensions and wall thickness against technical drawings and specifications
●        Anneal finished pieces to relieve internal stress and prevent cracking
●        Inspect finished work for defects, leaks, and dimensional accuracy
●        Maintain and organize tools, torches, gas lines, and workstations
●        Follow all safety protocols for handling open flame, compressed gases, and hot glass
●        Package and prepare finished glassware for shipment
●        Maintain accurate production records and job documentation
●        Familiar with Saftey Procedures
Qualifications
●        High school diploma or equivalent required
●        Prior experience in scientific/technical glassblowing, lampworking, or a related trade preferred; will train candidates with strong mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity
●        Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications
●        Comfortable working with open flame, compressed gas systems, and high temperatures
●        Strong hand-eye coordination and attention to detail
●        Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs
●        Reliable, safety-conscious, and able to follow precise instructions
●        Willingness to complete on-the-job training and/or formal glassblowing coursework
 
 
Preferred Qualifications
●        Certificate or coursework from a scientific glassblowing program (e.g., Salem Community College)
●        Experience with borosilicate and/or fused quartz glass
●        Familiarity with vacuum systems, gas manifolds, or laboratory equipment
●        Basic blueprint reading or CAD familiarity
●        Familiarity with manufacturing and standard plant safety procedures
What We Offer
●        Structured, hands-on training under experienced scientific glassblowers
●        Group Health Plan (Medical, Dental, Vision)
●        Paid Time Off. Sick Leave, Vacation and Holidays
●        401k Retirement Plan & Lift Insurance
●        Opportunity for advancement into a skilled trade with strong long-term demand & working for an established manufacturer of laboratory distillation systems for over 60 years. 
To Apply
Please send a resume and a brief description of your relevant experience to contactus@brinstrument.com. Include your availability and any prior glasswork, machining, or technical trade experience.

BR Instrument is an Equal Opportunity Employer.