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Finish Grinder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Caterpillar

Finish Grinder

South Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$24.71/hr

Finish Grinder - 3rd Shift Location: South Milwaukee, WI Shift: 3rd Shift - 11pm-7am Bonus: $2,000 Sign-On Bonus Pay Progression: • Step 1: $23.79/hr • Step 2: $24.25/hr • Step 3: $24.71/hr • ...

Area Temps

Finish Grinder - Second Shift

Perry, OH · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

A manufacturing company is seeking a Finish Grinder to work second shift from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Job Duties: * Set-up and tend Grinding Machines to grind various cutting inserts with materials such as ...

Lionshead Precision Metals

Finish Grinder

Greenwood, IN · On-site

$20/hr

Examine work pieces for defects and if defects are found, then report defects in material to the Grinding Team Leader immediately. * Ensure assigned work is understood prior to commencing. * Perform ...

Lionshead Precision Metals

Finish Grinder

Greenwood, IN · On-site

$20/hr

Examine work pieces for defects and if defects are found, then report defects in material to the Grinding Team Leader immediately. * Ensure assigned work is understood prior to commencing. * Perform ...

Next Gen Alloys

Auto Grinder

Monroe, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Operate automatic grinders to finish grind, spot s grind, and grind billet to desired shape and dimensional tolerances for superalloy and titanium billet in a variety of shapes and configurations.

ATI

Auto Grinder

Monroe, NC

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Operate automatic grinders to finish grind, spot s grind, and grind billet to desired shape and dimensional tolerances for superalloy and titanium billet in a variety of shapes and configurations.

ATI

Auto Grinder

Monroe, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Operate automatic grinders to finish grind, spot s grind, and grind billet to desired shape and dimensional tolerances for superalloy and titanium billet in a variety of shapes and configurations.

Allegheny Technologies Incorporated

Auto Grinder

Monroe, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Operate automatic grinders to finish grind, spot s grind, and grind billet to desired shape and dimensional tolerances for superalloy and titanium billet in a variety of shapes and configurations.

S&A Solutions

Blanchard Grinder Machinist

Roseville, MI

$16 - $19.75/hr

Operate a Blanchard-style machine with a reciprocating table and magnetic chucks Perform semi-finish grinding operations using abrasive segments Set up machines, detwist parts, and conduct in-process ...

Andritz

CNC Roll Grinder Operator

Ambridge, PA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Operates grinder in the finish grinding operation of roll bodies. * Uses measuring instruments to check pieces as required for size or finish. * Unloads finished pieces with the aid of a floor ...

Andritz

CNC Roll Grinder Operator

Ambridge, PA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Operates grinder in the finish grinding operation of roll bodies. * Uses measuring instruments to check pieces as required for size or finish. * Unloads finished pieces with the aid of a floor ...

Aerotek

Grinder Operator

Rochester, NY

$18 - $28/hr

Set up and operate surface and finish grinding machines to meet dimensional and tolerance requirements * Select appropriate grinding speeds and feeds based on material type * Dress and maintain ...

nssco

Grinder

Houston, TX

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

The Grinder ensures material leaving our facility meets finish standards, is safe to handle, and reflects the pride we take in our work. You will work closely with the Production Supervisor and ...

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Finish Grinder information

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$12

$18

$27

How much do finish grinder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for finish grinder in the United States is $19.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Finish Grinder, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Finish Grinder, you need a solid understanding of grinding techniques, blueprint reading, and quality control, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with precision measuring tools like micrometers and calipers, as well as experience with surface grinders and CNC equipment, is typically required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong problem-solving abilities are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the production of high-quality finished parts that meet exact specifications, which is critical in manufacturing and fabrication industries.

What are some common challenges Finish Grinders face, and how can they effectively manage them?

Finish Grinders often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent surface finishes, adhering to tight tolerances, and working with a variety of metal types. To manage these challenges, it's important to have a keen eye for detail, regularly maintain and calibrate equipment, and communicate closely with team members like machinists and quality inspectors. Developing strong problem-solving skills and staying up-to-date with the latest grinding techniques can also help Finish Grinders achieve high-quality results and minimize rework.

What is the difference between Finish Grinder vs Surface Grinder?

AspectFinish GrinderSurface Grinder
Primary FunctionFinishing and polishing metal surfaces to precise tolerancesGrinding flat surfaces on various materials
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, machine shopsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities
Common CertificationsMachinist certifications, technical trainingMachinist certifications, technical training
Usage in IndustryPrecision finishing of partsCreating flat, smooth surfaces

Finish grinders focus on detailed finishing and polishing of metal parts, often requiring high precision. Surface grinders are used primarily to produce flat surfaces on various materials. While both roles require similar certifications and work environments, finish grinders emphasize fine finishing, whereas surface grinders concentrate on flat surface creation.

What are Finish Grinders?

Finish Grinders are skilled workers who use specialized grinding machines to smooth and polish metal parts, usually as a final step in the manufacturing process. They ensure that surfaces meet precise specifications for smoothness, shape, and size by removing excess material, burrs, or defects. Finish Grinders often work in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and metal fabrication, following technical drawings and using precision measuring tools to achieve high-quality finishes.
More about Finish Grinder jobs
What job categories do people searching Finish Grinder jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Finish Grinder jobs are:
Finish Grinder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Finish Grinder job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 70% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,515 per year, or $19 per hour.
Finish Grinder

Finish Grinder

Caterpillar

South Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$24.71/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Caterpillar Inc. rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 465 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

223rd of 421 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Career Area:
Operations
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
Finish Grinder - 3rd Shift
Location: South Milwaukee, WI
Shift: 3rd Shift - 11pm-7am
Bonus: $2,000 Sign-On Bonus
Pay Progression:
• Step 1: $23.79/hr
• Step 2: $24.25/hr
• Step 3: $24.71/hr
• Shift Premium: +$1.00/hr for 3rd shift
Job Summary
As a Finish Grinder, you will play a critical role in preparing and refining precision components for assembly within a heavy manufacturing environment. This position focuses on cleaning, deburring, grinding, polishing, and fitting parts such as gears, shafts, and sub-assemblies to ensure they meet quality specifications. You will utilize a range of hand tools, power tools, and measurement instruments while working from blueprints and process instructions. The role requires strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to safety and quality. This is an excellent opportunity for skilled manufacturing professionals who take pride in craftsmanship and contributing to the production of high-performance equipment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform finish grinding, polishing, deburring, and cleaning of parts and components
  • Grind and polish gear tooth edges, roots, and complex surfaces to specification
  • Use hand tools and power tools including grinders, drills, presses, and deburring equipment
  • Interpret blueprints, drawings, and templates to ensure quality standards are met
  • Measure and inspect parts using calipers, squares, scales, and feeler gauges
  • Assist in simple assemblies and sub-assemblies, including fitting keys, splines, bushings, and brake bands
  • Position and align components using cranes, hoists, jacks, and clamping devices
  • Load, secure, and move large components using overhead cranes and material handling equipment
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
  • Follow all safety, quality, and inspection procedures

Required Skills
  • Minimum 2+ years of grinding, sanding, polishing, or finishing experience in manufacturing
  • Proficiency using hand tools, grinders, and measurement equipment
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
  • Experience with material handling equipment (cranes, hoists, or similar)
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality craftsmanship
  • Ability to work independently and within a team-based environment
  • Willingness to work overtime and flexible shifts

Preferred Skills
  • 2+ years of finish grinding experience in heavy manufacturing or machining environments
  • Experience with gear finishing, polishing, or precision metal components
  • Knowledge of assembly processes and mechanical fitting techniques
  • Experience with crating, preserving, and securing large components
  • Exposure to machining or CNC environments

Call to Action
If you're a skilled Finish Grinder or Metal Finishing Specialist who takes pride in precision craftsmanship, this is your opportunity to make a real impact in world-class manufacturing. At our South Milwaukee facility, you won't just clean and finish parts - you will refine critical components that power some of the largest and most advanced mining machines in the world, including Cat® Electric Rope Shovels (ERS). The work demands attention to detail, hands-on expertise, and a commitment to quality, from grinding and polishing complex gear surfaces to ensuring every component meets strict specifications. Every edge you finish and every component you prepare plays a direct role in the performance, reliability, and durability of industry-leading equipment. Join a team where your finishing skills are valued, your workmanship is visible, and your contributions truly matter.
Apply today and help deliver the precision behind what the world depends on.
Summary Pay Range:
$22.17 - $23.09
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
Posting Dates:
June 25, 2026 - August 2, 2026
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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