Unitized Systems

Term from Glazing industry explained for recruiters

Unitized Systems are pre-assembled window or curtain wall sections that are built in a factory and delivered to construction sites ready to install. Think of them like giant building blocks - each unit comes complete with glass, frame, and all necessary parts already put together. This approach is different from traditional "stick-built" systems where pieces are assembled piece by piece at the construction site. Construction companies prefer unitized systems for tall buildings because they're faster to install, ensure better quality (since they're assembled in controlled factory conditions), and reduce on-site labor needs.

Examples in Resumes

Managed installation of Unitized Systems on 30-story commercial building

Supervised factory assembly of Unitized Curtain Wall components

Led quality control team for Unitized Facade production

Coordinated shipping and installation of Unitized Panel Systems

Typical job title: "Unitized System Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Facade Specialist Curtain Wall Installer Glazing System Engineer Building Envelope Specialist Unitized System Project Manager Facade Project Manager Curtain Wall Technician

Where to Find Unitized System Specialists

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you manage logistics for a large unitized system project?

Expected Answer: Should discuss coordination between factory production, transportation scheduling, site storage, installation sequence, and crew management. Should mention weather considerations and backup plans.

Q: What quality control processes would you implement for unitized system production?

Expected Answer: Should explain factory testing procedures, inspection points, documentation requirements, and how to ensure consistency across units. Should mention mock-ups and performance testing.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key differences between stick-built and unitized systems?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain advantages and disadvantages of each system, including installation speed, quality control, cost implications, and site requirements.

Q: How do you ensure proper alignment and installation of unitized panels?

Expected Answer: Should discuss survey requirements, anchor systems, installation sequences, and methods for ensuring proper alignment and weatherproofing between units.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic components of a unitized system?

Expected Answer: Should identify main parts like frames, glass, gaskets, anchors, and explain how they work together to create a complete unit.

Q: What safety considerations are important when installing unitized systems?

Expected Answer: Should discuss personal protective equipment, proper lifting procedures, weather conditions, and basic site safety requirements.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of unitized system components
  • Ability to read installation drawings
  • Knowledge of basic safety procedures
  • Understanding of quality control basics

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Supervision of installation crews
  • Quality control inspection
  • Project coordination
  • Problem-solving installation issues

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project management of large-scale installations
  • Factory production oversight
  • Complex logistics management
  • Team leadership and client relations

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic safety procedures
  • Lack of experience with quality control processes
  • Unable to read technical drawings
  • No understanding of weather sealing requirements
  • No experience with large commercial projects