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Operator Grinding Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Experience operating grinders, saws, or other material removal equipment is strongly preferred. * Experience with Blanchard grinders, reciprocating surface grinders, table saws, geological saws, or ...

Experience operating grinders, saws, or other material removal equipment is strongly preferred. * Experience with Blanchard grinders, reciprocating surface grinders, table saws, geological saws, or ...

Production Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Operate manufacturing equipment such as mixers, batching systems, mills, grinders, packing and ... Forklift operating experience * Experience troubleshooting basic mechanical components * Prior ...

Production Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

... grinders, packing and palletizing machines • Collect product samples and monitor tank levels ... operating experience • Experience troubleshooting basic mechanical components • Prior ...

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Hourly Wage ... Operates heavy machinery such as boom trimmers or mowers, excavators, tub grinder, feller-buncher ...

Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

$35.36/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Hourly Wage ... Operates heavy machinery such as boom trimmers or mowers, excavators, tub grinder, feller-buncher ...

Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

$35.36/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Hourly Wage ... Operates heavy machinery such as boom trimmers or mowers, excavators, tub grinder, feller-buncher ...

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Hourly Wage ... Operates heavy machinery such as boom trimmers or mowers, excavators, tub grinder, feller-buncher ...

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Hourly Wage ... Operates heavy machinery such as boom trimmers or mowers, excavators, tub grinder, feller-buncher ...

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Operator Grinding information

What is an operator grinding?

Operator Grinding jobs involve operating grinding machines to shape, finish, or sharpen metal or other materials. These professionals are responsible for setting up the machinery, monitoring the grinding process, inspecting finished products for quality, and performing basic maintenance. Operator Grinders typically work in manufacturing, metalworking, or tool-making industries and must follow safety procedures to prevent accidents. Attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and adherence to specifications are essential skills for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operator grinding?

To thrive as an Operator Grinding, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience in operating grinding machines, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with CNC grinders, measurement tools like calipers and micrometers, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication, and a commitment to quality help set top operators apart. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring precision, safety, and efficiency in production environments.

What are some common challenges faced by operator grinding professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Operator Grinding professionals often encounter challenges such as maintaining precision during repetitive tasks, managing machine maintenance, and adhering to strict safety standards. To address these, operators should regularly calibrate their equipment, follow preventive maintenance schedules, and stay updated on the latest safety protocols. Collaborating with quality control and maintenance teams can also help quickly identify and resolve issues, ensuring smooth operations and consistent product quality.

What is the difference between Operator Grinding vs Machinist?

AspectOperator GrindingMachinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, possibly certifications in grinding techniquesHigh school diploma or equivalent, technical training, certifications in machining or CNC operation
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, working with grinding machinesMachine shops, manufacturing facilities, working with various machine tools
Industry UsageCommonly used in metal fabrication, manufacturing, and repair shopsUsed across manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and metalworking industries

While both Operator Grinding and Machinist work in manufacturing environments, Operator Grinding primarily focuses on operating grinding machines to shape or finish parts. Machinists have a broader skill set, including setting up and operating various machine tools, and often work with a wider range of manufacturing processes. Both roles require technical skills and safety awareness, but Machinists typically have more extensive training and responsibilities.

What does a grinding operator do?

A grinding operator is responsible for operating grinding machines to shape, finish, or remove material from metal, plastic, or other workpieces. They set up equipment, select appropriate grinding wheels, and ensure precision and safety during the process, often requiring knowledge of measurements and safety protocols. The role typically involves working in manufacturing or fabrication environments and may require certifications or training in machine operation.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Operator Grinding jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Operator Grinding job openings:

R&D Grinding Technician II

Golden, CO • On-site


CoorsTek, Inc.
Ceramic, Glass, Cement Product Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

It's exciting to work for a company that makes the world measurably better.
We're committed to bringing safety, quality, and customer focus to the business of advanced ceramics manufacturing.
Job Title
R&D Grinding Technician II
Responsible for preparing, machining, and harvesting ceramic and related material samples for laboratory testing and R&D evaluation. Operates grinding, cutting, and shaping equipment, including Blanchard grinders, reciprocating surface grinders, table saws, and geological saws, to produce test-ready specimens in accordance with customer requirements, approved work instructions, quality expectations, and safety standards.
Roles & Responsibilities
Works under limited supervision while following approved work instructions, drawings, customer requirements, and laboratory procedures to prepare ceramic and related material samples for testing.
  • Operates sample preparation and machining equipment, including but not limited to:
  • Blanchard grinders
  • Reciprocating surface grinders
  • Table saws
  • Geological saws
  • Basic cutting, grinding, and material removal equipment used for sample harvesting and shaping
  • Harvests samples from ceramic parts, coupons, billets, tiles, and other submitted materials to create basic shapes or test specimens for downstream analysis.
  • Performs grinding, sectioning, and shaping operations to support mechanical, thermal, electrical, microscopy, chemistry, and other laboratory testing needs.
  • Interprets basic work instructions, sample drawings, customer requests, and dimensional requirements to determine appropriate machining and preparation approach.
  • Uses measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and other basic inspection tools to verify sample dimensions and workmanship.
  • Documents sample preparation steps, equipment used, relevant observations, and deviations from standard processing requirements.
  • Identifies and communicates sample condition concerns, machining limitations, dimensional issues, cracking, chipping, contamination risks, or other preparation-related problems to laboratory leadership or internal customers.
  • Performs basic troubleshooting on sample preparation equipment and resolves routine operational issues within area of responsibility.
  • Cleans equipment and work areas, performs routine preventative maintenance, and supports safe, reliable operation of sample preparation equipment.
  • Assists with data gathering, record keeping, and basic technical reporting related to sample preparation, equipment condition, rework, scrap, or process observations.
  • Works independently on assigned sample preparation tasks and supports continuous improvement by identifying practical improvements to workflow, fixturing, equipment use, safety, or sample quality.
  • Collaborates with analysts, engineers, technicians, and internal customers to ensure samples are prepared in a way that supports valid testing and minimizes rework.
  • Cross-trains on related laboratory equipment and sample preparation processes as needed to support department priorities.
  • Complies with customer specifications, quality requirements, laboratory procedures, and safety standards.
  • Knowledge of CNC operation or G-Code programming is a plus.
Job Requirements
Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent plus 3 years of related work experience, or Bachelor's degree with 1 year of related work experience.
  • Technical training, trade school coursework, or machining-related certification is preferred.

Experience
  • Experience operating grinders, saws, or other material removal equipment is strongly preferred.
  • Experience with Blanchard grinders, reciprocating surface grinders, table saws, geological saws, or similar sample preparation equipment is highly preferred.
  • Experience machining, grinding, cutting, or preparing ceramic, glass, stone, carbide, refractory, or other brittle materials is preferred.
  • Experience in a laboratory, R&D, prototype, machine shop, ceramics manufacturing, or materials testing environment is preferred.
  • Experience with equipment maintenance, basic troubleshooting, and dimensional inspection is preferred.
  • G-Code programming knowledge is a plus.
Functional / Technical Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Intermediate math and writing skills required.
  • Ability to read and follow work instructions, sample preparation requests, basic drawings, and dimensional requirements.
  • Ability to use basic measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and height gauges.
  • Able to generate basic technical notes, sample preparation records, and equipment-related documentation.
  • Understands basic material handling considerations for ceramics and other brittle materials, including chipping, cracking, edge quality, contamination, and dimensional control.
  • Possesses practical troubleshooting skills for sample preparation and machining equipment.
  • Able to use computer systems for basic departmental functions, including data entry, work tracking, and documentation.
  • Must be organized, detail-oriented, safety-focused, and able to manage multiple sample preparation priorities.
  • Must be able to work with a diverse variety of people from different cultures and backgrounds.
  • Exhibits effective cooperation and communication skills to work within a team environment and support internal customers.
Position-Specific Physical Requirements
  • Required to always wear appropriate personal protective equipment in work areas.
  • May be required to work around rotating equipment, grinding wheels, saw blades, coolant systems, sharp edges, ceramic dust, and brittle material fragments.
  • May be required to handle hazardous chemicals such as acids, solvents, coolants, or cleaning agents.
  • May be required to wear a respirator; medical evaluation will be required prior to fitting.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • May be required to stand for extended periods, bend, reach, push, pull, and perform hands-on equipment operation throughout the workday.

Target Hiring Range
Hourly: USD 22.84 - USD 27.62
Actual compensation is commensurate with experience, skills and education. CoorsTek strives to give all qualified applicants equal opportunity and to make selection decisions on job related factors. Do not provide any information on the application which will indicate your race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law or regulation.
If you like working for a company that makes a real difference in the world, you'll enjoy your career with us!


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