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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Auto Glass Technician

💰 $ - $

AutomotiveGlassInstallationMobile ServiceADAS Calibration

🎯 Role Definition

The Auto Glass Technician is a trained tradesperson who inspects, diagnoses, removes, and installs automotive glass (windshields, side and rear glass, sunroofs) using OEM procedures, urethane adhesives, and industry-standard safety practices. This role includes mobile service delivery, insurance claims processing, and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) calibration when required. The ideal candidate combines technical expertise in glass replacement and repair with strong customer service, documentation skills, and a commitment to safety and quality.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Automotive Technician / General Mechanic transitioning into glass specialties
  • Windshield Repair Technician or Chip Repair Specialist
  • Collision Center Assistant or Detailer with glass exposure

Advancement To:

  • Senior/Lead Auto Glass Technician
  • Mobile Service Supervisor or Shop Manager
  • ADAS Calibration Specialist or Diagnostics Technician
  • Franchise Owner or Regional Service Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • ADAS/Calibration Technician
  • Auto Glass Sales & Estimating Specialist
  • Fleet Service Coordinator (mobile glass services)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Conduct thorough vehicle and glass damage assessments to determine whether repair or full replacement is required, documenting chip size, crack patterns, and vehicle make/model specifics for OEM glass matching and insurance reporting.
  • Remove broken or damaged windshields, rear and side glass using mechanical and hydraulic cut-out tools, following manufacturer procedures to avoid damage to vehicle paint, trims, door seals, and moldings.
  • Prepare pinchweld and frame surfaces by cleaning, decontaminating, and applying primer or adhesion promoter per urethane manufacturer and OEM specifications to ensure proper bond strength and leak prevention.
  • Measure and fit OEM and aftermarket glass accurately, perform test fits, and use proper shims, clips, and moldings to maintain OEM fit, finish, and safety performance.
  • Dispense, gun, and apply vehicle-grade urethane adhesive in correct bead size and pattern while controlling cure times and ambient conditions to meet drive-away time (DAT) standards.
  • Install new glass assemblies and secure them with manufacturer-specified fasteners and molding reinstallation techniques, ensuring proper alignment, sealing, and functionality of integrated components (antenna, rain sensors, defrost).
  • Perform auto glass chip and crack repairs using resin injection systems, polish repairs to restore structural integrity and mitigate visibility issues while documenting repair effectiveness for customers and insurers.
  • Calibrate Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) — including cameras and radar — after windshield replacements using OEM or certified calibration targets, import tools, and static/dynamic procedures to restore lane keep, automatic braking, and adaptive cruise control performance.
  • Operate and maintain mobile service vehicles: stock inventory, secure glass and tools, maintain power systems (generators, compressors), and ensure the van is safe and professional for on-site customer service.
  • Process customer paperwork and insurance claims: prepare estimates, submit digital photos and required documentation, explain coverage and deductibles to customers, and coordinate direct-bill procedures with insurance carriers.
  • Use digital estimating software, point-of-sale systems, and CRM tools to create itemized invoices, record job details, and update customer records for warranty and service history.
  • Troubleshoot integrated components attached to glass (antenna, heating elements, sensors) and coordinate with dealership/service centers for complex electronics or body repairs beyond scope.
  • Follow all safety protocols: use PPE, dispose of broken glass per environmental regulations, adhere to vehicle manufacturer safety programs, and maintain a clean work area to reduce accident risk.
  • Maintain and calibrate specialty tools and equipment — vacuum tools, pumps, seal cutters, resin systems, and torque tools — and perform routine preventive maintenance to ensure reliability on the job.
  • Train and mentor junior technicians and apprentices on safe glass removal/installation techniques, ADAS basics, and customer-facing best practices to elevate shop capability and quality standards.
  • Communicate proactively with customers and service advisors: explain repair recommendations, timelines, warranty terms, and aftercare instructions to ensure high customer satisfaction and repeat business.
  • Perform leak and water-test inspections post-installation to verify seals and adhesion integrity, documenting results and correcting any identified issues immediately.
  • Select and order correct OEM glass parts and replacement components, verify part numbers, inspect deliveries for defects, and manage returns or warranty claims with suppliers.
  • Adhere to regulatory and warranty standards including OEM installation bulletins, industry best practices (Auto Glass Safety Council / NGAP guidelines), and local environmental and waste handling laws.
  • Maintain accurate job logs, photographs pre/post-installation, and quality checklists for audit, insurance, and warranty purposes, ensuring traceability of service.
  • Manage time efficiently across multiple assignments—balancing in-shop work and dispatched mobile calls while meeting or improving on scheduled completion times and productivity goals.
  • Identify opportunities for upsell or additional services (e.g., windshield protection film, wiper replacement, cabin air filter checks) while maintaining ethical sales practices and transparency with customers.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist management with inventory control: cycle counts, reorder thresholds, and supplier relationship coordination to minimize stockouts and reduce carrying costs.
  • Participate in customer follow-up calls and warranty claim resolution to maintain brand reputation and capture feedback for continuous improvement.
  • Support cross-functional collaboration with collision repair teams and dealerships for complex glass-related structural or bodywork issues.
  • Contribute to health & safety meetings and continuous training sessions on new adhesives, OEM procedures, and ADAS calibration updates.
  • Help maintain the shop and mobile vehicle presentation: cleaning, detailing, and ensuring signage, uniforms, and van appearance meet company standards.
  • Provide input into scheduling and routing optimization for mobile service appointments to maximize productivity and reduce travel time.
  • Assist with basic shop administrative tasks: filing, uploading photos to claims portals, and capturing customer signatures on digital devices.
  • Support marketing or community outreach events (fleet demos, safety clinics) to showcase mobile service capabilities and generate leads.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Windshield and auto glass removal and installation (OEM and aftermarket) — demonstrated proficiency with correct cutting, adhesion, and reinstallation techniques.
  • Urethane adhesive application and drive-away-time (DAT) management, including bead pattern knowledge and environmental cure adjustments.
  • Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) calibration — static and dynamic calibration experience with OEM tools, Identifix, Bosch, Hunter, or equivalent systems.
  • Auto glass chip repair using resin injection systems and polishers; ability to restore up to industry-recommended sizes and configurations.
  • Mobile service operations: securing glass for transport, van equipment setup, and on-site installation workflow efficiency.
  • Insurance claims processing and estimating: familiarity with major carrier procedures, digital photo documentation, and direct-bill systems.
  • Use of digital estimating and CRM software (e.g., Mitchell, CCC ONE, GlassMAN, or proprietary POS systems).
  • Knowledge of automotive trim, moldings, clips, adhesives, and glass sealing materials; ability to disassemble and reassemble trim without damage.
  • Electrical and sensor troubleshooting related to heated glass, antennas, and rain/light sensors integrated in windshields.
  • Safe use and maintenance of specialty tools: vacuum cups, air chisels, wire looms, seal cutters, and torque tools.
  • Part identification and ordering for OEM and aftermarket glass, including part number cross-referencing.
  • Leak-testing and quality verification techniques, including water test procedures and post-installation inspections.
  • Basic vehicle bodywork awareness to avoid paint and trim damage during glass service.

Soft Skills

  • Strong customer service and communication skills; able to explain technical procedures clearly to non-technical customers and build trust.
  • Attention to detail and commitment to high-quality workmanship and neat installations.
  • Time management and route planning skills to balance shop and mobile appointments efficiently.
  • Problem-solving orientation; ability to adapt to unusual vehicle makes/models and on-site constraints.
  • Team player mentality with capability to mentor junior technicians and collaborate with service advisors.
  • Professionalism and dependability: punctuality, clean presentation, and respect for customer property.
  • Customer-focused selling: ethical upsell of additional services while prioritizing safety and customer needs.
  • Resilience and physical stamina for lifting, bending, and working in variable weather conditions for mobile service.
  • Continuous learning mindset; willingness to stay current with OEM bulletins and ADAS technology advancements.
  • Documentation and organizational skills to maintain accurate records for warranty, insurance, and compliance.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High school diploma or GED; equivalent automotive/vocational school training acceptable.

Preferred Education:

  • Technical certificate or diploma in Automotive Technology, Collision Repair, or Glass Technology.
  • Formal training or certification in ADAS calibration and auto glass installation (e.g., Auto Glass Safety Council, OEM-specific courses).

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Automotive Technology
  • Collision Repair & Refinishing
  • Glass/Glazing Technology
  • Electrical or Mechanical Trade Programs

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 1–5 years of hands-on auto glass installation and repair experience. Entry-level candidates with solid technical training and apprenticeship may be considered.

Preferred:

  • 3+ years installing and repairing windshields and glass across a wide range of vehicle makes/models, plus demonstrated ADAS calibration experience and mobile service exposure.
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