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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Aluminum Installer

💰 $ - $

ConstructionGlazingMetal FabricationInstallation

🎯 Role Definition

The Aluminum Installer is a skilled tradesperson responsible for installing aluminum storefronts, windows, curtain wall systems, entrances, and associated metal framing and glazing systems on commercial and residential projects. This role requires precise field measuring, interpretation of shop drawings, safe operation of lifts and scaffold, equipment setup, proper sealing/weatherproofing, and coordination with general contractors, fabricators and site teams to deliver code-compliant, high-quality installations.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Glazier Helper / Glazing Laborer
  • Carpenter or General Construction Laborer
  • Metal Fabrication Shop Apprentice

Advancement To:

  • Lead Aluminum Installer / Field Foreman
  • Curtain Wall Technician / Project Supervisor
  • Shop Foreman or Installation Estimator

Lateral Moves:

  • Commercial Glazier
  • Storefront & Entrance Specialist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Accurately read, interpret and verify architectural and shop drawings, submittals and installation details to plan and sequence aluminum storefront, window and curtain wall installations.
  • Field measure openings and substrates, produce precise templates, and confirm dimensional tolerances against shop drawings to prevent on-site fabrication errors and ensure proper fit.
  • Set, align and secure aluminum framing systems, including storefronts, entrances, transoms, sidelites and storefront kickplates, ensuring plumb, level and true installation to specified tolerances.
  • Install glazed units and insulating glass panels using mechanical anchoring systems, gasketing, pressure plates and structural silicone per manufacturer specifications and applicable codes.
  • Apply sealants, primers, backer rods and flashing systems to create continuous waterproof transitions at mullions, sills, jambs and head conditions to meet weatherproofing performance criteria.
  • Install curtain wall systems and unitized panels, including anchorage, thermal break components, and spider or cap-and-cover systems, following engineered connection details for wind and seismic loads.
  • Install commercial aluminum doors, closers, thresholds, panic hardware, electronic lockdowns and weatherstripping, and adjust hardware for smooth operation and ADA compliance.
  • Fabricate and finish field-cut aluminum components (mullions, caps, pressure plates) using mitre saws, bridge saws, brake presses and hand tools to execute final in-field modifications.
  • Operate aerial lifts, scissor lifts, scaffolding and rigging equipment safely to access glazing openings and high-elevation curtain wall installations in compliance with fall protection requirements.
  • Perform anchoring, shim setting, grout, and through-bolt or embed anchorage work to tie aluminum framing into structural substrates, ensuring load transfer and long-term stability.
  • Execute final alignment, shimming, and sealing of frames to maintain water/air infiltration performance and to meet project mock-up and testing criteria.
  • Participate in on-site mock-ups, water infiltration, air infiltration and structural testing, make corrective adjustments and document corrective actions per test reports.
  • Maintain clean, accurate project documentation including daily installation logs, as-built measurements, material submittals, warranties, punch lists and change order requests.
  • Coordinate closely with general contractors, concrete/steel trades, electrical/HVAC trades and glazing fabricators to sequence work, resolve interferences and prevent rework.
  • Troubleshoot fit, glazing bite, thermal movement and flashing transitions in the field; develop practical repair or modification solutions while consulting project managers or engineers when required.
  • Lead and train less experienced installers and helpers on proper glazing practices, tool usage, safety protocols and manufacturer-specified installation methods.
  • Operate hand and power tools (drills, impact drivers, rivet guns, torque wrenches, grinders, sealant guns) and portable fabrication equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Maintain and inspect personal and crew safety equipment, ladders, scaffolding components, lift certification logs and PPE to ensure compliance with company policies and OSHA regulations.
  • Stage, protect and manage aluminum materials, glass units and hardware on-site to prevent damage, track inventory and minimize material waste and reorders.
  • Complete punch lists, perform final cleaning of frames and glass, and participate in owner/GC walkthroughs to address warranty items and ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Follow manufacturer installation guides for thermal break systems, structural silicone glazing (SSG), pressure-equalized rainscreens and other performance-critical assemblies.
  • Document time, material usage and equipment needs for accurate job costing, and assist project managers with field-based estimates and labor productivity input.
  • Respond to warranty calls and perform on-call maintenance/repair of previously installed aluminum systems, diagnosing failures and restoring performance per warranty guidelines.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist the fabrication shop with mock-up builds, special cuts and pre-assembly to improve field efficiency and reduce on-site fabrication time.
  • Support project managers with pre-construction site visits, constructability reviews and value engineering suggestions for aluminum systems.
  • Assist in ordering, receiving and inventory control of aluminum extrusions, glass units, gaskets, anchors, fasteners and sealants.
  • Maintain and organize tools, company vehicles and equipment; schedule preventative maintenance and report defective equipment immediately.
  • Participate in safety and product training sessions, manufacturer-led installation seminars and certification programs to maintain up-to-date installation techniques.
  • Prepare and submit field requests for information (RFIs) and change order documentation with photos and dimensional data when site conditions differ from contract documents.
  • Coordinate layout and adjustments for specialty items such as skylights, louvers, sunscreens and custom architectural metal applications.
  • Provide professional client-facing communication during site meetings, status updates and final turnover to ensure positive customer relationships.
  • Support quality assurance by conducting periodic inspections of installed systems against project quality standards and manufacturers’ tolerances.
  • Clean and protect installed systems and adjacent finishes during ongoing construction to minimize rework and warranty claims.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints, shop drawings, sections, elevations and installation details specific to aluminum storefronts and curtain walls.
  • Field measurement and templating skills with strong dimensional accuracy for custom aluminum components and glazing units.
  • Hands-on experience installing storefront systems, commercial doors, curtain walls, unitized panels and associated anchorage systems.
  • Skilled in glazing techniques: setting IGUs, installing gaskets, tape, pressure plates and silicone/structural sealants per manufacturer instructions.
  • Familiarity with aluminum fabrication equipment and processes: mitre saws, brake presses, punches, drill presses, rivet guns and hand fabrication tools.
  • Knowledge of waterproofing methods, flashing integration, air/water barrier interfaces and thermal break concepts to ensure building envelope performance.
  • Ability to safely operate aerial lifts, scissor lifts, scaffolds, fall protection systems and rigging gear.
  • Hardware installation and adjustment knowledge: commercial door closers, exit devices, electric strikes and thresholds to meet ADA and code requirements.
  • Experience completing mock-ups, assisting with water/air infiltration and structural testing and implementing corrective work from test results.
  • Competence with jobsite documentation: daily reports, material tracking, punch lists, RFI support and basic field cost tracking.
  • Familiar with building codes, safety standards and local regulations affecting glazing and storefront installations (IBC, local code amendments).
  • Familiarity with common sealant chemistries (silicones, polyurethanes, polysulfides), backer rods, primers and application techniques.

Soft Skills

  • Strong attention to detail and quality mindset to ensure precise installations and long-term system performance.
  • Effective verbal communication and coordination skills for working with superintendents, subcontractors, vendors and clients.
  • Problem-solving and decision-making skills for resolving unexpected site conditions and fitment challenges.
  • Time management and organizational skills to meet installation schedules and manage multiple tasks on fast-paced job sites.
  • Team leadership and mentorship ability to guide junior installers and coordinate crew activities.
  • Customer-focused attitude with professionalism during owner walkthroughs, punch lists and warranty interactions.
  • Physical stamina, manual dexterity and ability to work safely at heights and in varying weather conditions.
  • Adaptability and flexibility to respond to changing project priorities, schedule shifts and scope adjustments.
  • Commitment to safety culture and willingness to follow company safety policies and participate in toolbox talks.
  • Initiative to recommend process improvements and efficiency gains to reduce installation time and material waste.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High school diploma or GED; equivalent construction experience accepted.

Preferred Education:

  • Vocational training, technical certificate in glazing, architectural metals or a construction trades program.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Construction Technology
  • Carpentry or Building Trades
  • Metal Fabrication / Sheet Metal Technology
  • Architectural Glass & Glazing Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 1–5 years of hands-on aluminum installation or related glazing/metal framing experience.

Preferred: 3–7+ years installing commercial storefronts, curtain wall systems, unitized panels or significant on-site glazing experience, including familiarity with manufacturer installation manuals and mock-up/testing procedures.

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