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Buffing Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Machine Polisher

Providence, RI

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Experience operating polishing, buffing, grinding, or finishing equipment is a plus.Training will be provided for qualified candidates.Ability to safely operate polishing machinery.Basic ...

Machine Polisher

Providence, RI · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Experience operating polishing, buffing, grinding, or finishing equipment is a plus. Training will be provided for qualified candidates. Ability to safely operate polishing machinery. Basic ...

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Floor Technicians

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$16 - $16.50/hr

Experienced in operating buffing machines * Skilled in surface preparation methods * Strong adherence to safety compliance * Excellent time management and attention to detail * Physical stamina to ...

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Custodian

New York, NY · On-site

$18.92/hr

... operating a buffing machine. * Perform garbage duties, including cleaning area surrounding and underneath dumpster, sorting metal, and breaking down boxes for weekly pick up. * Maintain rubber tiles ...

Showing results 41-60

Buffing Machine Operator information

What is the difference between Buffing Machine Operator vs Polishing Technician?

AspectBuffing Machine OperatorPolishing Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, specialized polishing certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, metal or automotive industriesManufacturing, automotive, jewelry, or metal finishing industries
Job DutiesOperate buffing machines to smooth surfaces, remove imperfectionsApply polishing techniques to enhance surface finish, often manually or with machines

Buffing Machine Operators and Polishing Technicians both work in manufacturing environments focusing on surface finishing. While operators primarily handle buffing machines to remove imperfections, polishing technicians often perform detailed polishing to achieve specific surface qualities. Both roles require similar credentials and are found in related industries, making them closely connected but distinct in their specific tasks.

What does a buffing machine operator do?

A Buffing Machine Operator is responsible for operating machines that polish and smooth metal, wood, or plastic surfaces. They use specialized equipment to remove scratches, clean, or finish surfaces to a specified level of shine or smoothness. Their work is important in manufacturing to ensure that products meet quality standards and are visually appealing. Buffing Machine Operators must follow safety protocols and may also be responsible for maintaining and adjusting their equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a buffing machine operator?

To thrive as a Buffing Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with buffing machines, measuring tools like calipers or micrometers, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity, and good communication skills help someone excel in this role. These competencies ensure precise, high-quality finishes on products while maintaining a safe and efficient work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by buffing machine operators on the job?

Buffing Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality while working with different materials and finishes. Managing the physical demands of repetitive motions and standing for long periods is another common hurdle. Operators also need to stay vigilant about safety, as working with rotating machinery and abrasive compounds can pose risks if proper protocols aren't followed. Effective communication with team members is important to ensure workflow efficiency and timely completion of orders.

What is a buffing machine operator job description?

A buffing machine operator is responsible for operating and maintaining buffing machines to polish and finish metal, plastic, or other surfaces. They set up equipment, select appropriate abrasives, and ensure quality standards are met, often working in manufacturing or finishing environments. Attention to safety procedures and the ability to work with hand tools are important skills for this role.
More about Buffing Machine Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Buffing Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Are you ready to forge a career in manufacturing? Design Ready Controls is a leader in the control panel industry and we are looking for a key player to join our team at our Fabrication facility, Design Ready Fabrications. As a Machine Assistant, you'll be a vital part of our team. You'll work alongside experienced professionals, learning new skills and contributing to the production of high-quality components.

Want to learn more? Submit your resume today!
M-Thur 6:00am-3:15pm, Friday 6-11am. Schedule.
Key Responsibilities
Machine Operations:
  • Shaking apart parts from the flat metal sheet
  • Assist machine operators in setting up and preparing machines for production, ensuring accurate configuration and alignment.
  • Monitor the operation of machines, identifying any irregularities or malfunctions and reporting them to the machine operator or acting supervisor.
  • Perform basic cleaning tasks on machines, including checking for wear and tear.
  • Load raw materials and unload finished products from machines in a timely and efficient manner.
  • Safely operate a forklift after certification
Safety and Compliance:
  • Follow safety protocols and ensure work areas is clean, organized and free of hazards.
  • Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhere to company safety policies.
  • Report any hazards or safety concerns immediately to management and/or Human Resources.
Collaboration:
  • Work closely with machine operators, production staff, and supervisors to meet production goals.
  • Assist punching out finished goods from sheet metal, storing product, organizing inventory, and packaging product for shipment.
  • Assist with sanding and buffing finished goods.
  • Communicate effectively with team members to ensure smooth operations.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Education | Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Familiarity with machine operations and/or steel fabrication is preferred.
Abilities | Skills
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
  • Excellent communication and listening skills, with attention to clarity, quality, and precision
  • Proactive, quick-thinking, problem-solving approach to work
  • Ability to use a large variety of hand and power tools with proper safety techniques
  • Physical stamina and strength to perform tasks that require lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally and 15-25 pounds frequently. May be required to bend, kneel and work in various positions on occasion.
  • Ability to sit, stand or walk for up to 9 hours throughout the shift.
  • Exposure to loud noises, heavy machinery, and industrial equipment.
Compensation amp; Benefits:
  • Competitive Hourly Pay :$20.00-$22.00 DOE
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package:
    • Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA, FSA, Dependent Care FSA, Life Insurance, Disability, ADD, 401(k), Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Floating Holidays, ESST.
Disclaimer:
This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with the position. The position will also assume any other additional responsibilities as assigned by the manager. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Design Ready Controls is an equal opportunity employer.
Design Ready Controls is committed to providing competitive total compensation and benefits packages. This listed range is based upon a full-time schedule. This is a good faith estimate on the applicable range. Base salaries are determined by taking a variety of factors in account, including, but not limited to, candidate qualifications, education, geographic locations, market conditions and internal equity.