Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Set up, operate, or tend grinding and related tools that remove excess material or burrs from surfaces, sharpen edges or corners, or buff, hone, or polish metal or plastic work pieces.
Common Job Titles
- Centerless Grinder Operator
- Grinder
- Grinder Operator
- Grinding Machine Operator
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
70,110
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $34,980. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,420. 50th percentile: U.S. $45,190. 75th percentile: U.S. $51,380. 90th percentile: U.S. $61,550. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $34,980 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $61,550 |
| Workers on average earn | $46,600 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Production and Processing3.5/5
- Mathematics3.0/5
- Administration and Management2.8/5
- Mechanical2.7/5
- English Language2.6/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Windows
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- Manufacturing reporting system
- Mazak Mazatrol SMART CNC
Tools & Equipment
- Angle grinders
- Barrel finishing machines
- Bench clamps
- Bore gauges
- Buffing machines
- Chuck wrenches
- Computer numerical control CNC grinding machines
- Computerized microscopes