What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Glass Blower -- Scientific Glass Manufacturing position at BR INSTRUMENT CORP?
Assistant Glass Blower — Scientific Glass Manufacturing
Location: 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.
Salary : $20 - $30