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Grinder Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Grinder

Burbank, CA

$40.10 - $50.18/hr

Grinding parts on Centers. ** From Hiring Manager - For precision grinding, it's also helpful to note we run a number of manual OD grinders as well CNC's. Studer S33, S11, and S20 (manual) are very ...

Grinder

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Connect Staffing is hiring a Grinder in Santa Ana, CA supporting an aluminum parts manufacturing company. You'll mainly remove flash and excess material from aluminum parts and use surface-grinding ...

Grinder

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$17.50/hr

To grind all parts down to specified thickness per customer work order.Inspect and measure all raw and finished parts with calipers, and micrometers. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the ...

Grinder

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Connect Staffing is hiring a Grinder in Santa Ana, CA supporting an aluminum parts manufacturing company. You'll mainly remove flash and excess material from aluminum parts and use surface-grinding ...

Grinder-SGF

South Gate, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

GRISWOLD INDUSTRIES SOUNDCAST NORTH Grinder JOB DIMENSIONS : Job Summary: Under general supervision, operates air and electric grinders to grind parts; and perform other duties as assigned. Reports ...

Grinder-SGF

South Gate, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

GRISWOLD INDUSTRIES SOUNDCAST NORTH Grinder JOB DIMENSIONS : Job Summary: Under general supervision, operates air and electric grinders to grind parts; and perform other duties as assigned. Reports ...

Conventional Grinder

Valencia, CA

$17.25 - $21.50/hr

Gap Grinders O/D Grinders I/D Grinders Flat/Surface Grinder Primary Responsibilities Set up and machine operations on high strength steel and aluminum parts. May run one or more machines on a regular ...

Grinder I

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

Starts grinder and moves it over surface of work piece to remove scratches, laminated metal, excess weld material, and burs. * Polishes ground areas with finer abrasive to produce smooth, unmarred ...

As a Production Associate supporting grinding operations at Sierra Alloys , you'll help keep production moving safely and efficiently. This is an entry-level, hands-on role that supports grinders by ...

Grinder / Shop Laborer This role focuses on grinding forged metals and alloys, supporting metal fabrication and forging operations, and performing general shop labor in a manufacturing environment.

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 ...

Deburr Grinder

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $25.25/hr

Deburr Grinder Job Type: * Full Time * Day Shift Experience a must Benefits: * Group Health Insurance. Medical and Dental * 401(k) with matching contributions * Holiday and Vacation Pay Salary ...

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 ...

The CNC Surface Grinder will be responsible for setting up and programming machines, monitoring operations, and ensuring parts meet quality and specification standards. This role supports our mission ...

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 ...

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Grinder information

See California salary details

$12

$18

$27

How much do grinder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for grinder in California is $18.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by grinders and how can they be addressed on the job?

Grinders often face challenges such as maintaining precision and consistency in their work, managing physical fatigue, and ensuring safety while operating heavy machinery. To address these, it's important to follow strict safety protocols, regularly inspect and maintain equipment, and take scheduled breaks to prevent strain. Additionally, collaborating closely with supervisors and quality control teams helps ensure that finished components meet required specifications and quality standards.

What are grinder job specializations?

Grinders are skilled workers who operate grinding machines to shape, finish, or smooth metal and other materials. They use various types of grinding equipment, including bench grinders, surface grinders, and cylindrical grinders, to remove excess material and achieve precise surface finishes. Grinders are essential in industries like automotive, aerospace, and tool making, ensuring components meet exact specifications. Their work requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and a strong understanding of safety protocols.

What does a grinder job do?

A grinder job involves operating grinding machines to shape, finish, or remove excess material from metal, stone, or other materials. Workers must understand machine operation, safety procedures, and often use tools like bench grinders or CNC grinders in manufacturing or construction environments.

What is a grinder?

A grinder is a machine operator who selects specific tools and equipment to finish products according to design specifications. As a grinder, your duties include the inspection of items coming off an assembly line, the removal of defective pieces, and the use of grinding machinery and CNC mill equipment to smooth or polish the surface of the products. Your responsibilities include setting up and operating tools and machinery, examining materials to identify defects, and selecting the appropriate tool or machine to correct defects and create a finished product that meets quality assurance standards.

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

To thrive as a Grinder, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with metalworking or machining, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with grinding machines, precision measurement tools (like calipers and micrometers), and safety protocols is essential. Strong hand-eye coordination, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently set exceptional candidates apart. These skills ensure high-quality, precise output and maintain safety and efficiency in manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Grinder vs Machinist?

AspectGrinderMachinist
Required CertificationsOften requires precision machining certificationsRequires CNC or machining certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily with grinding machines to finish partsOperates various machine tools to produce parts
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, metalworking, and tool-makingWidely used in manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive industries

While both grinders and machinists work in manufacturing environments and require technical skills, grinders focus on finishing parts with grinding machines, whereas machinists operate a variety of machine tools to create or modify parts. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit in manufacturing roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Grinder jobs in California?

The most popular types of Grinder jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Grinder jobs?

Cities in California with the most Grinder job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Grinder job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $38,998 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

$40.10 - $50.18/hr

Full-time, Other

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Please let me know if you would be interested OR if you can possibly refer someone for the following full-time job opportunity.  Immediate interview!
$3000 Sign-on Bonus
Location: San Fernando Vallely, CA
Starting on 1st shift (5:30 am- 6 am or earlier if OT needed) for training, differential applied when moved to 2nd shift - Second Shift Hours are Monday-Friday, 2:00 PM -10:30 PM. Overtime may adjust start time (e.g., 3:00 PM for extended overtime) and/or extend end time. Flexibility to work overtime and weekends as required.
ITAR US Person Required – HS Degree or GED Required
Precision Grinder Level I:  $27.38/hourly to $35.35/hourly
Precision Grinder Level II: $35.16/hourly to $45.28/hourly
Precision Grinder Level III: $40.10/hourly to $50.18/hourly
  • Second Shift Hours are Monday-Friday, 2:00 PM -10:30 PM. Overtime may adjust start time (e.g., 3:00 PM for extended overtime) and/or extend end time. Flexibility to work overtime and weekends as required.
  • All second shift openings are eligible for $2 shift differential - To be clear - candidates hired for second shift will begin their training on first shift. It is rare for someone to be trained directly on second shift as we typically don’t have trainers available during that time – unless there’s a unique situation where someone is available to train them on second shift. 
  • Please assume that all second shift hires will be start on first shift for training – they will not receive the differential during this training period.
  • First shift typically starts between 5:30am – 6am, and if there is any OT needed, they are expected to come in earlier.
*** HLG does outside grinding on parts so we are looking for someone who has outside (OD) grinding background. If they have OD experience, they will either have done cylindrical or centerless grinding. MUST HAVE – OD GrindingCylindrical is highly preferred. Most OD grinders will have centerless so we will train them in cylindrical.   Grinding parts on Centers.
** From Hiring Manager - For precision grinding, it’s also helpful to note we run a number of manual OD grinders as well CNC’s. Studer S33, S11, and S20 (manual) are very popular machines so that experience would immediately translate.
Precision Grinder Level I – Overview
The Grinder Precision I operates precision grinding machines to produce parts according to established blueprint and engineering specifications.
Essential Functions:
  • Performs basic outside diameter (OD) and surface grinding operations using manual or basic CNC cylindrical OD grinders that are already set up
  • Uses micrometers and similar gages to verify results for thickness and diameter
  • Basic understanding of GD&T. Able to review work instructions and reference blueprints as needed to verify requirements
  • Uses basic collets, chucks, and v-blocks that have been specified and configured for use by a level two or level three associate or other subject matter expert
  • Able to understand measurements and offset arithmetic within 0.0001"
  • Completes all required inspection and in process verification paperwork to ensure traceability of results
  • Observes condition of tooling and escalates any out of family conditions for review by level two or level three associate, supervisor, or other subject matter expert
  • Operates equipment, pauses jobs as needed and escalates concerns to ensure safety and first-time quality
  • Documents and applies feedback from level two and three associates to achieve safety, quality, and efficiency related requirements
  • Any other task assigned by supervisor or management
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Experience: Experience in a machine shop or similar work environment preferred but not required
  • Knowledge: Computation and analysis comprehension in support of GD&T requirements and basic gaging practices required
  • Skills/Abilities: Demonstrated mechanical aptitude in an adjacent environment (work, school, or other) strongly desired
  • Education/Certification: High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Eligibility Requirement: This position may require access to Controlled Data or Information. Where the position requires such access only US Persons will be considered. As a US Department of Defense contractor, we are bound by International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
The Precision Grinder Level II - Overview
The Grinder Precision II operates precision grinding machines to produce parts according to established blueprint and engineering specifications.
Essential Functions:
  • Able to perform basic setup, daily maintenance, and troubleshooting of CNC OD grinders and manual grinding machines
  • Uses specialized gauges to verify cylindricity, surface finish, and other characteristics. (profilometers, air gauges, laser micrometers, camber gauges, etc.)
  • Makes minor adjustments to ensure cylindricity (taper) and surface finish requirements are met. May replace grinding wheels and similar items.
  • Able to correlate machine settings with size, cylindricity, and surface finish results. Makes minor adjustments and consults with level three technicians to achieve required results
  • Able to select and modify tooling and part holding/fixturing techniques for moderately complex jobs
  • Highly proficient and agile in computing machine offsets, clearances, taper, and similar characteristics. Uses data to make in process adjustments to ensure process control. Meets precise engineering B/P requirements with implied cylindricity requirements within 0.000050"" (fifty millionths)
  • Completes all required inspection and in-process verification paperwork to ensure traceability of results
  • Dresses and modifies wheels, forms, drives, and other media/tooling
  • Adjusts equipment as needed and verifies results. Assists level ones to ensure consistent results
  • May support training of level one associates. Able to communicate requirements. Assists others in documenting NCR details and captures supplemental data as needed.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Experience: Minimum two years of experience with precision ground assemblies
  • Knowledge: Understanding of GD&T, Gaging Practices, Grinding Media
  • Skills/Abilities: Manual and CNC Grinding and related gaging and computational skills
  • Education/Certification: High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Eligibility Requirement: This position may require access to Controlled Data or Information. Where the position requires such access only US Persons will be considered. As a US Department of Defense contractor, we are bound by International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
Preferred Qualifications:
  • CNC Grinding equipment experience using FANUC or equivalent controls
Precision Grinder Level III - Overview
The Grinder Precision III operates precision grinding machines to produce parts according to established blueprint and engineering specifications.
Essential Functions:
  • Able to perform setup, daily maintenance, and in-depth troubleshooting of ID/OD grinders, form grinders, and similar specialized equipment
  • Able to perform call grind and functionally verify hardware using flow benches, specialized gauges, leakage measurements, along with more advanced analysis/computation
  • Able to assist in the development of new routings and techniques. Selects feeds, speeds, and media used to ensure blueprint requirements are met
  • Able to configure/baseline machine settings and media to achieve the tightest tolerance requirements. Collaborates with engineering and internal customers to establish or troubleshoot key process inputs.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing engineering and tool designers to support complex operations and achieve most precise B/P requirements
  • Highly proficient and agile in computing machine offsets, clearances, taper, and similar characteristics. Uses data to make process adjustments to ensure process control. Meets precise engineering B/P requirements and reports results with a measurement resolution approaching 0.000010" (tens of millionths)
  • Completes all required inspection and in-process verification paperwork to ensure traceability of results
  • Selects, specifications and may assist in ordering new media and developing new tooling
  • Partners with other level threes, subject matter experts, supervision, and support functions to ensure safe and efficient operation of equipment
  • May support training of level one and level two associates. Helps new support team members to understand key processes and critical inputs.
  • Any other task assigned by supervisor or management
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Experience: Minimum five years of experience with precision ground assemblies
  • Knowledge: Understanding of GD&T, Gaging Practices, Grinding Media
  • Skills/Abilities: Manual and CNC Grinding and related gaging and computational skills
  • Education/Certification: High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Eligibility Requirement: This position may require access to Controlled Data or Information. Where the position requires such access only US Persons will be considered. As a US Department of Defense contractor, we are bound by International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
Preferred Qualifications:
  • CNC Grinding equipment experience using FANUC or equivalent controls