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Engraver

Do you want to become a Engraver? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Engravers cut into the surface of glass or metal objects for decorative purposes, using hand tools or machinery. Their work includes engraving names, messages, verses and patterns on a variety of items such as jewellery, decanters, medals and trophies.  Different engraving methods on glass and metal include using a:

• copper wheel lathe
• hand-held pendant motor
• pantograph and computer-controlled machines
• photo etching.

Engravers usually work a 37 to 40 hour week. Many of them are self-employed, and  work flexible hours including evenings and weekends to complete jobs for their clients. The work is indoors, in a workshop or factory.

Salaries range from around £10,000 a year for newly-qualified engravers, to £30,000 or more a year for very experienced, self-employed engravers, who are paid negotiated or set fees for each job they do.

An engraver should:

• have good eyesight, hand to eye co-ordination and nimble fingers
• have excellent concentration, be patient and methodical
• have arts and crafts skills, especially in technical drawing or creative design
• have the ability to promote and sell their work, where necessary
• enjoy being creative and paying attention to detail.

Engraving work is available throughout the UK, but the majority is found in the main manufacturing centres of London, Birmingham and Sheffield. Jobs are quite scarce and, especially in glass engraving, are decreasing. There are no set academic qualifications, although most engravers have an arts or crafts background. BTEC/SQA Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) are available in Art & Design, Gemmology, Horology, Jewellery, and Silversmithing.

There is no upper age limit for this work.

People already working in jewellery, metalwork manufacture or design, sometimes learn how to engrave on the job. BTEC/SQA HND courses typically last for two years, consisting of lectures, projects and coursework. The Jewellery and Allied Industries Training Council and SEMTA (Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies Alliance) are developing Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships and NVQs/SVQs.

Promotion opportunities occasionally occur in larger glass and jewellery manufacturing and engraving companies or silversmiths, eg, to senior engraver or supervisor. Many engravers are self-employed, so progress depends on marketing skills and producing work to a consistently high standard.

 

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