Scientific Glassblower (Custom Laboratory Glass Shop)

What You'll Do7

• Examine customer sketches to assess manufacturability, focusing on wall thickness, stress points, and design integrity.
• Provide technical guidance for lathe and bench operations in borosilicate and quartz, with an emphasis on custom apparatus fabrication.
• Advise on best practices for glass-to-metal or graded seal formation, including joint type and material compatibility.
• Recommend and document annealing schedules that reduce stress and ensure structural reliability.
• Inspect proposed designs for potential issues and suggest improvements to manufacturability or performance.
• Develop accurate, detailed quotations based on complexity, material requirements, and feasibility.
• Deliver clear written and verbal feedback on project risks, trade-offs, and alternative approaches.

Requirements7

• Extensive hands-on experience in a university or company scientific glass shop, fabricating custom laboratory glass apparatus.
• Expert proficiency with both lathe and bench glassworking techniques in borosilicate and quartz.
• Strong background in interpreting technical sketches and translating them into buildable designs.
• Demonstrated ability to recommend and execute appropriate annealing schedules for different glass types and assemblies.
• Familiarity with stress analysis, wall thickness considerations, and optimizing joint and seal configurations.
• Proven skill in producing high-quality glass-to-metal or graded seals for laboratory use.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities, particularly in technical and consultative contexts.

Who Should Apply

This role suits an experienced scientific glassblower with a strong background in custom laboratory apparatus fabrication. You should be comfortable interpreting technical sketches, recommending annealing schedules, and producing glass-to-metal or graded seals. Strong communication skills are essential for providing clear feedback.

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