Also called: Precision Grinder
Runs machines that grind and polish metal parts to extremely smooth, exact finishes.
You load bearing races onto a grinding machine, dress the grinding wheel, and take off tiny amounts of metal. Sparks fly in a fan behind the guard while you check sizes with a gauge.
BLS grinding, lapping, polishing and buffing machine tool operators; approximate.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
High school diploma, about 0 years after high school. High school plus on-the-job training.
Ways in: On-the-job training. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Shrinking (about -4% over 10 years).
High risk for 10 years. CNC grinders with in-process gauging need few operators; openings decline as plants automate.
Age 18+. One way to start: Apply at machine and grinding shops or through a staffing agency; new hires are trained on the job
Classes: Machining CTE class, Algebra, Blueprint reading.
Official data: O*NET occupation 51-4033.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.