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Grinding Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Operate automated grinding machines to produce aerospace parts. * Manage and oversee two machines simultaneously. * Ensure quality and precision in the grinding process. Work Environment Work on the ...

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Cylindrical Grinder

Irvine, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Select and maintain grinding wheels and tooling. * Inspect finished parts using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and dial indicators . * Perform basic machine maintenance. * Work with ...

Grind Clerk

Tracy, CA

$18 - $22.50/hr

... Grinding, Frozen Grinding, and Grind out. Works as an Organic Line Grinder, or Transport Driver for the lines. Job Duties * Performs machine set up and break down, replacement of parts when clogged ...

Grinder

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $30.31/hr

Ability to lift and maneuver hand-held grinding equipment in repetitive motions over long periods of time. Physical Requirements: * Ability to bend, reach, stoop, stretch, lift, and move objects ...

Grind Clerk

Tracy, CA · On-site

$18 - $22.50/hr

... Grinding, Frozen Grinding, and Grind out. Works as an Organic Line Grinder, or Transport Driver for the lines. Job Duties * Performs machine set up and break down, replacement of parts when clogged ...

Showing results 21-40

Grinding information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$59.1K

$77K

How much do grinding jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for grinding in California is $59,090.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $69,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a grinding?

A Grinding job involves operating grinding machines to smooth, refine, or shape metal, plastic, or other materials. Workers in this role use precision tools and machines to remove excess material, ensuring products meet required specifications. They may also inspect finished parts, perform routine maintenance on equipment, and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents. This role is common in manufacturing, automotive, and metalworking industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the grinding position, and why are they important?

To excel in a Grinding role, you typically need proficiency in operating industrial grinding machines, a strong understanding of precision measurement, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Knowledge and safe use of calipers, micrometers, surface grinders, and adherence to quality standards such as ISO are often required, with some employers preferring certification in machining or manufacturing. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to work well with others are valuable soft skills for this position. These competencies help ensure that parts are manufactured to exact specifications, safety protocols are met, and production targets are achieved efficiently.

What are the typical challenges faced by someone working in a grinding position?

Grinding professionals often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise tolerances on parts, managing repetitive tasks without compromising quality, and ensuring the safe operation of powerful machinery. The role may involve inspecting finished components frequently and adjusting equipment settings to meet strict specifications. Communication with supervisors, quality control teams, and other machinists is important to promptly resolve production issues or material inconsistencies. Successfully navigating these challenges requires a strong commitment to safety, teamwork, and continuous learning about new grinding techniques and equipment.

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

The most popular types of Grinding jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Grinding jobs?

Cities in California with the most Grinding job openings:

Infographic showing various Grinding job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,090 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Machining Tech III - Grinder - First Shift

Howmet Aerospace

Fullerton, CA • On-site

$19.48 - $32.53/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 166 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Machining Tech III- Grinder, 1st Shift at our aerospace manufacturing facility in the Fullerton, CA.

Sets up and operates grinding equipment, including but not limited to, centerless grinders, abrasive cut-off machines, double disc grinders and any other type of grinder for production and experimental work orders. Operator will support screw machine department to balance workload.  Operator will be held to established production and quality standards. Incumbent will have control to make minor adjustments to the process or machine after tasks are assigned. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Plan the set-up and sequence of operations on special and assigned grinding work by studying work orders, part prints, engineering drawings or other instructions.
  • Check dimensions, finish, material and nature of part to determine feed and speed and other set-up information to hold specified tolerances and obtain required finish. 
  • Make complete set-up of all grinders by selecting and mounting suitable type, size and grade of grinding wheel, holding fixtures and attachments. 
  • Position, align and secure part.
  • Make machine adjustments, dress, true and shape grinding wheels as required.
  • Operate any type of grinder to produce both production, experimental parts and details.
  • Check parts for finish and dimension with use of precision measuring instruments.
  • Make such minor repairs as may be required in set-up and operations.
  • May set-up machines for operation by others; 
  • May be required to train others in the department.
  • Trouble shoots problems in both parts to be worked on, and machine problems.
  • Parts to be lifted and/or transported may weigh up to 30 lbs.      
  • Keeps work area clean, safe and in an orderly fashion on a daily basis.
  • Performs other tasks of equal or lesser skill as required.

Basic Qualifications: 

  • Three to five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Prior machining experience  
  • Ability to read and interpret documents in English such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. 
  • Able to read/interpret part drawings, use quality tools (calipers, mics, comparators)
  • Read and interpret blueprints  
  • Understand the speeds and feeds pertaining to the machine they are operating (where applicable)  
  • Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. 

Physical Demands:  

  • Must be able to lift/move 30 lbs. (may not exceed per EHS policies) 
  • Must be able to stand for long periods of time  
  • Use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms.
  • Frequently required to stand and sit.
  • Occasionally required to walk and talk or hear.
  • Occasionally lifts and/or moves up to 30 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, however, it may be occasionally loud enough where hearing protection is required.

Work hours – 5 days, 8 hours a day, with overtime to meet the demands of the job. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • High school diploma or GED preferred 
  • aerospace/fastener machining experience 

 Benefits/Salary: 

The position includes competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package available day one of hire, including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), excellent 401k matching program, paid holidays and vacation. Howmet Aerospace curates a strong working environment through opportunities for career progression, community engagement activities, and flexible schedules contingent upon role and location.  The salary range for this position is $19.48- $32.53.

Company Description

Howmet Aerospace, headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company’s primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems and titanium structural parts necessary for mission-critical performance and efficiency in aerospace and defense applications, as well as forged wheels for commercial transportation. Howmet Aerospace is transforming the next phase of more fuel-efficient, quieter aerospace engines and sustainable ground transportation. For more information, visit www.howmet.com/joinus


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About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888