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Grind Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Howmet Aerospace

Centerless Grinder

Brea, CA

$26 - $36/hr

Quality and Productivity. ' Maintain a clean and safe work environment. ' Works with minimal supervision to independently perform the job of Set-up Grind Operator. ' Set-up and operate one Cincinnati ...

Howmet Aerospace

Centerless Grinder

Brea, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Quality and Productivity. ' Maintain a clean and safe work environment. ' Works with minimal supervision to independently perform the job of Set-up Grind Operator. ' Set-up and operate one Cincinnati ...

PayCruit, LLC

Grinder Operator

Azusa, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Currently looking for Grinder operators for a Manufacturing company located in City of Azusa 1st shift avaialble 6am to 2:30pm Pay $20 an hour Essential Functions: · Using angle grinders and belt ...

FasTemps, Inc

Machine Operator / Grinder

Montebello, CA

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

Position Overview The Machine Operator - Grinder is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining grinding machinery to produce high-quality parts according to specified measurements and ...

MS AEROSPACE INC

Centerless Grind

Sylmar, CA

$20 - $45/hr

Night shift Grinding Operator Department/ Area: Grind Position Summary: Candidates will be responsible to set-up and operate #2 size CINCINNATTI centerless grinding machine - run small batch of ...

MS Aerospace

Be Seen First

Grinder Operator

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Grinding Operator 2nd Shift Department/ Area ... Grind Position Summary: Candidates will be responsible to set-up and operate #2 size CINCINNATTI ...

RimePro Inc

Centerless Grinder

Whittier, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Position Overview We are seeking a skilled Centerless Grinder Operator to join our precision manufacturing team. This position is responsible for setting up and operating centerless grinding machines ...

RimePro Inc

Centerless Grinder

Los Angeles, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Position Overview We are seeking a skilled Centerless Grinder Operator to join our precision manufacturing team. This position is responsible for setting up and operating centerless grinding machines ...

fontana

Centerless Grinder Operator

Burbank, CA

... grind external or internal cylindrical or tapered surfaces of metalwork pieces to blueprint specifications by performing specific duties Position Responsibilities Include But Are Not Limited To:

Fontana

Centerless Grinder Operator

Burbank, CA · On-site

... grind external or internal cylindrical or tapered surfaces of metalwork pieces to blueprint specifications by performing specific duties Position Responsibilities Include But Are Not Limited To:

Kimco Staffing

Centerless Grinder

Long Beach, CA

$22 - $28/hr

Job Summary The Centerless Grinder is responsible for setting up and operating centerless and cylindrical grinding machines to manufacture precision aerospace components. This position requires a ...

Kimco Staffing

Centerless Grinder

Fullerton, CA

$22 - $28/hr

Job Summary The Centerless Grinder is responsible for setting up and operating centerless and cylindrical grinding machines to manufacture precision aerospace components. This position requires a ...

Kimco Staffing

Centerless Grinder

Alhambra, CA

$22 - $28/hr

Job Summary The Centerless Grinder is responsible for setting up and operating centerless and cylindrical grinding machines to manufacture precision aerospace components. This position requires a ...

Kimco Staffing

Centerless Grinder

Huntington Beach, CA

$22 - $28/hr

Job Summary The Centerless Grinder is responsible for setting up and operating centerless and cylindrical grinding machines to manufacture precision aerospace components. This position requires a ...

Kimco Staffing

Centerless Grinder

Compton, CA

$22 - $28/hr

Job Summary The Centerless Grinder is responsible for setting up and operating centerless and cylindrical grinding machines to manufacture precision aerospace components. This position requires a ...

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All JobsGrind Operator JobsGrind Operator Jobs in California

Grind Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$19

$27

How much do grind operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for grind operator in California is $19.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are grind operators?

Grind operators are skilled workers responsible for operating grinding machines that shape, smooth, or finish metal and other materials. They set up, monitor, and adjust grinding equipment to ensure parts are produced to precise specifications. Grind operators also inspect finished products for quality, perform routine maintenance on machines, and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. This role is crucial in manufacturing industries such as automotive, aerospace, and metal fabrication.

What is the difference between Grind Operator vs Machinist?

AspectGrind OperatorMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, vocational training, or certifications in grindingHigh school diploma, technical training, or certifications in machining
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, grinding shopsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities, workshops
Job FocusPrecision grinding of parts to specificationsDesign, setup, and operate various machine tools to produce parts
Common UsageUsed in industries requiring surface finishing and precision grindingUsed across manufacturing sectors for part fabrication and machining

While both roles involve working with machinery in manufacturing settings, a Grind Operator specializes in grinding processes to achieve precise surface finishes, whereas a Machinist operates a variety of machine tools to produce parts. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Grind Operator, and how can they be managed on the job?

Grind Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision in measurements, preventing equipment wear, and meeting production deadlines. To manage these, operators need to regularly inspect and calibrate grinding machinery, carefully follow safety and quality protocols, and communicate with team members about any irregularities or maintenance needs. Staying organized and attentive to detail helps ensure product consistency and reduces downtime, making the work environment smoother and safer.

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

To thrive as a Grind Operator, you need a solid understanding of machine operation, blueprint reading, and basic math, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with grinding machines, measurement tools like calipers and micrometers, and sometimes CNC systems is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong teamwork skills help operators ensure precision and maintain safety standards. These competencies are vital for producing high-quality parts, minimizing waste, and maintaining workplace safety in manufacturing environments.
What are popular job titles related to Grind Operator jobs in California? For Grind Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Grind Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Grind Operator jobs in California are:
Grind Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grind Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,925 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
Precision Grind Operator/Technician I - Day or Night Shift

Precision Grind Operator/Technician I - Day or Night Shift

Excelta Corporation

Buellton, CA • On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
POSITION TITLE: Precision Grind Operator
FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt
MANAGER JOB TITLE: Grind Cell Lead / Director of Manufacturing
FTE STATUS: Full-Time
DEPARTMENT: Manufacturing
EXCELTA
Excelta is a premier manufacturer of precision hand tools, specializing in tweezers, pliers, cutters, and small assembly instruments. With over 60 years of expertise, our tools are engineered to meet the highest standards of precision, reliability, and durability. Trusted by professionals in electronics, aerospace, medical device manufacturing, and other industries, Excelta offers a comprehensive range of products designed for intricate and delicate tasks. Our commitment to quality ensures that each tool delivers exceptional performance, making Excelta a trusted name in precision hand tools.
JOB SUMMARY/PURPOSE
The Precision Grind Operator is responsible for producing high-precision wire cutters through a combination of CNC machining, surface grinding, hand honing, sharpening and deburring. This role requires working to extremely tight tolerances and making critical adjustments based on close inspection of parts. The ideal candidate demonstrates excellent attention to detail, manual dexterity, and a strong understanding of machining principles and part inspection.
KEY COLLABORATORS
  • Manufacturing Technicians
  • Precision Grind Operators
  • CNC Operators
  • Manufacturing Supervisors / Leads
  • Quality Control team members

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Grind:
  • Operator CNC machines and surface grinders to produce precision parts to tight tolerances
  • Load/unload machines; set up fixtures and make programs, tool and work offset adjustments as needed
  • Hand hone and sharpen parts using files to ensure blade registration and cut quality
  • Deburr parts using buffing wheels to meet cosmetic and functional standards
  • Perform visual inspections using 10x loupe to verify quality and identify necessary adjustments

Productivity:
  • Accurately log production time and quantities using time keeping and labor report software (LYNQ)
  • Read thoroughly all "travelers" (work order)
  • Maintain production and maintenance logs accurately and in a timely manner
  • Proactively manage time and tasks to ensure consistent productivity during shifts, minimizing workflow interruptions or delays to maintain smooth production operations.
  • Monitor and optimize production processes to maximize efficiency, and ensure timely completion of manufacturing goals, while maintaining a focus on continuous improvement and waste reduction.

Safety & Environmental:
  • Comply with environmental, health, safety, and other plant guidelines.

Quality:
  • Perform regular inspections and quality checks on products and processes, ensuring all work meets established standards and specifications, while promptly identifying and addressing any defects or deviations to maintain the highest level of product quality.

Housekeeping/Maintaining a Clean Work Environment:
  • Maintain 6S practices keep work area clean and organized.

Other Duties:
  • Participates in periodic safety training.
  • Other activities as they become necessary.

Precision Grind Operator II
Responsibilities (In addition to level I duties):
  • Must be able to proficiently run 3 core operations (CNC, Honing, Surface Grinding, Deburring)
  • Must be able to train others in those 3 operations.

Precision Grind Operator III
Responsibilities (in addition to level I &II duties):
  • Must be able to proficiently run all 4 core operations (CNC, Honing, Surface Grinding, Deburring)
  • Must be able to train other in those 4 areas.
  • Ability to locate work pieces and rotate diamond
  • Ability to change wheel on surface grinder

Requirements
PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Education: Highschool diploma or GED.
Experience, Skills, Capabilities:
Required:
  • 2+ years of manufacturing experience is desirable.
  • 2+ years of experience operating CNC machines, surface grinders or related precision equipment is desirable.
  • Proficient in using inspection tools (calipers, micrometers, loupes, gauge blocks, etc.)
  • Strong understanding of blueprints and ability to work within tight tolerances. +0/-.0005"
  • Comfortable performing visual inspections at 10x magnification
  • Ability to identify and correct part defects such as burrs and blade misalignment
  • Must be able to work independently with minimum oversight.
  • Familiarity with quality control processes and safety regulations.
  • Experience with hand honing or sharpening cutting tools
  • Good manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
  • Ability to follow written and verbal work instructions and interpret part drawings or specs

TRAITS, ATTRIBUTES & COMPETENCIES
Attention to Detail -Thoroughness in accomplishing a task through concern for all the areas involved, no matter how small. Accuracy is an absolute in this position.
Collaboration - Works with fellow employees, is direct and focused.
Communication - Skilled at focused and direct communication, economy of words.
Drive for results - Demonstrates concern for achieving or surpassing results against an internal or external standard of excellence. Shows a passion for improving the delivery of results with a commitment to continuous improvement.
Initiative - Self-starter, knows what needs to be done and keeps their focus on correctly and accurately moving product out the door.
Problem Solving - Thinks through the situation at hand and draws on past instruction and best practice to try and resolve a problem before asking for help.
Reliability - Demonstrates a high level of dependability in all aspects of the job.
Physical Demands Work Environment Tools
Work Location: 100% onsite
Work Schedule: 40 hours / week - Night Shift 1:30pm - 12:00am
Physical Conditions of Employment:
Kneel, crouch, reach, climb, walk, constant use of hands.
Able to stand for extended periods
Lift up to 30 lbs safely
Tools Utilized:
Loup, hand files, power tools, calipers, micrometer, optical comparator, and other hand tools.
Environmental Conditions of employment:
The position will perform most of the work will be performed in the manufacturing CNC machining area.
Exposure to loud noises, dust, oils, and solvents.
Salary Description
$22.00 - $27.00/hr

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