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Grinder Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Grinder Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

The Grinder Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring PVC scrap grinders and pulverizers to process raw and recycled materials. Key duties include feeding material into equipment ...

Grinder Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

The Grinder Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring PVC scrap grinders and pulverizers to process raw and recycled materials. Key duties include feeding material into equipment ...

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 centerless grinding machine - run small batch of blanks ...

Belt Grinder Operator

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

The Belt Grinder Operator plays a critical role in the post-machining finishing process, ensuring aerospace-grade components meet strict surface finish and dimensional requirements. This position ...

Belt Grinder Operator

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

The Belt Grinder Operator plays a critical role in the post-machining finishing process, ensuring aerospace-grade components meet strict surface finish and dimensional requirements. This position ...

Mounts grinding wheel and regulating wheel on spindles using wrenches * Dresses grinding wheels to specifications * Moves controls to set specified grinding speeds, feed rates, and spacing between ...

Mounts grinding wheel and regulating wheel on spindles using wrenches * Dresses grinding wheels to specifications * Moves controls to set specified grinding speeds, feed rates, and spacing between ...

Machine Operator / Grinder

Montebello, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Machine Operator / Grinder

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Centerless Grinder

La Mirada, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Centerless Grinder Operator to support the production of precision metal components used in demanding aerospace and industrial applications. This ...

Centerless Grinder

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

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A Conventional ID (Internal Diameter) Grinder operator sets up and runs manual grinding machines to shape and finish the inside cylindrical surfaces of metal parts. This highly precise role requires ...

Centerless Grinder

Brea, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Centerless Grinder Set Up Operator ' 1st Shift Position Overview: The Centerless Grinder Set Up Operator will set-up and operate one Cincinnati #2 OM Center-Less Grinding Machine. While operating the ...

While operating the machine the operator will follow the quality policy of 3V Fasteners .''''' Key Responsibilities: ' Plan and perform close tolerance set-ups with multiple material types ...

Centerless Grinder

Brea, CA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

While operating the machine the operator will follow the quality policy of 3V Fasteners .''''' Key Responsibilities: ' Plan and perform close tolerance set-ups with multiple material types ...

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Showing results 1-20

Grinder Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$19

$27

How much do grinder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for grinder 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 is a grinder operator?

Grinder Operators are skilled workers who set up, operate, and maintain grinding machines to shape and finish metal or other materials. They use precision tools to grind, polish, or sharpen parts according to specifications, ensuring quality and safety standards are met. Grinder Operators may work in manufacturing, metalworking, or fabrication industries, often reading blueprints and using measuring devices to achieve exact results. Their role is critical in producing parts with tight tolerances and smooth finishes.

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

To thrive as a Grinder Operator, you need a solid understanding of machine operation, blueprint reading, and precision measurement, usually backed by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with CNC grinding machines, calipers, micrometers, and related safety protocols is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and reliability are crucial soft skills for maintaining product quality and meeting production goals. These competencies ensure efficient, accurate, and safe operation in manufacturing environments.

What are some of the common safety challenges faced by grinder operators, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Grinder Operators often work with heavy machinery and rotating equipment, which presents safety challenges such as flying debris, noise exposure, and the risk of hand injuries. To address these issues, workplaces enforce strict use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection. Regular equipment inspections and adherence to lockout/tagout procedures are also standard practice to minimize accidents. Team members are encouraged to communicate clearly and maintain clean, organized workspaces to further enhance safety.

What is the difference between Grinder Operator vs Machinist?

AspectGrinder OperatorMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in grinding techniquesHigh school diploma; technical training or certifications in machining
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, machine shopsFactories, machine shops, manufacturing facilities
Job FocusPrecision grinding of parts to specificationsOperating various machine tools to produce parts

While both roles work in manufacturing environments and require technical skills, Grinder Operators specialize in grinding processes to achieve precise finishes, whereas Machinists operate a variety of machine tools to create parts. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and specific technical focus.

What are popular job titles related to Grinder Operator jobs in CA?

For Grinder Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Grinder Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,925 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Grinder Operator

JM Eagle

Fontana, CA • On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


JM Eagle rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Grinder Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring PVC scrap grinders and pulverizers to process raw and recycled materials. Key duties include feeding material into equipment, overseeing grinding and pulverizing operations, and separating processed material into designated containers for regrind and pulverized output. The role also requires maintaining accurate production paperwork, including material logs and daily reports.

This position works 12hour rotating shifts.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Maintain work area in compliance with THM standards.

  • Operate grinder machinery to grind PVC pipe.

  • Operate PVC scrap grinder and pulverizer equipment.

  • Handle and separate materials; fill containers with regrind and pulverized material.

  • Maintain accurate production records and complete required paperwork.

  • Operate a forklift and maintain current forklift certification.

  • Assist with setups, changeovers, cleaning, painting equipment, sweeping, and general housekeeping.

  • Handle, sort, and store materials and supplies.

  • Use safe work practices at all times and report hazardous conditions immediately.

  • Complete required reports and documentation.

  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers.

  • Monitor equipment performance and report mechanical issues promptly.

  • Assist maintenance personnel during minor repairs or adjustments.

  • Ensure proper labeling and storage of processed materials.

  • Assist with inventory counts, material tracking, and inventory organization.

  • Perform other miscellaneous duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities: This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Education and Experience

  • High School Diploma or GED required.

  • Six months to one year of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment preferred.

  • Forklift experience required.

Computer Skills

  • Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel.

Language Skills

  • Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

  • Ability to write routine reports.

  • Ability to communicate effectively with employees at all levels.

Mathematical Skills

  • Ability to apply basic math functions including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Reasoning Ability

  • Ability to solve practical problems and work with a variety of concrete variables where limited standardization exists.

  • Ability to interpret written, oral, diagram, and schedulebased instructions.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described below represent those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

  • Adequate sight, hearing, and use of limbs to safely operate powered vehicles (forklifts, sweepers, cars, pickups).

  • Ability to visually distinguish product identification, warning indicators, and operational signals.

  • Ability to hear and differentiate between warning alarms and normal operating sounds.

  • Ability to visually verify accuracy and neatness of assigned tasks.

  • Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl for tasks such as operating, cleaning, or packaging equipment and products.

  • Ability to maintain balance and body equilibrium when walking, standing, or crouching, even with limited supervision.

  • Ability to verbally communicate in person or by telephone to complete job requirements.

  • Ability to clearly hear and understand verbal communication in person or by telephone.

  • Ability to see and understand written communication.

  • Ability to lift or handle objects up to 50 pounds safely and request assistance when exceeding that limit.

  • Ability to walk through, under, and around equipment with a minimum 30inch clearance.

  • Ability to operate telephones and calculators as required.

  • Ability to feel objects, textures, size, shape, and temperature using fingertips.

  • Ability to grasp and safely use manual and powered tools (power saws, drills, hammers, presses, latches, etc.).

  • Adequate sight capability to safely operate machinery and tools at arm’s length.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described below represent those encountered while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

  • Work performed in both indoor and outdoor environments.

  • Exposure to extreme cold (below 32°F for more than one hour).

  • Exposure to extreme heat (above 100°F for more than one hour).

  • Exposure to high noise levels requiring raised voice to be heard.

  • Exposure to vibration and fluctuating body movements.

  • Exposure to hazards such as moving machinery, electrical currents, falling debris, chemicals, gases, high heat, or explosives.

JM Eagle is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, reproductive health decision-making, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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