ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Sanding Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wilsonart

Production Operator II- Sander Operator

Temple, TX

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

... sanding, trim line and printed manufacturing codes. • Measures width and length of material. • ... operating a lift truck • Skill in identifying colors and shades. • Ability to read and ...

Wilsonart

Production Operator II- Sander Operator

Temple, TX · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

... sanding, trim line and printed manufacturing codes. • Measures width and length of material. • ... operating a lift truck • Skill in identifying colors and shades. • Ability to read and ...

Wilsonart

Production Operator II- Sander Operator

Temple, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

... sanding, trim line and printed manufacturing codes. • Measures width and length of material. • ... operating a lift truck • Skill in identifying colors and shades. • Ability to read and ...

Wilsonart

Production Operator II- Sander Operator

Temple, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Sets and adjusts the sanding, trim line and printed manufacturing codes. Measures width and length ... Skill in operating a lift truck Skill in identifying colors and shades. Ability to read and ...

Aerotek

Grinder/sander Operators

Ocala, FL · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Repair surface defects by applying filler, filing, sanding, and blending areas to meet required ... Experience operating forklifts in a manufacturing or warehouse setting. * Familiarity with paint ...

CLKCO LLC

Sander

Sherwood, AR

$15/hr

An independently owned and operated Maaco Collision Repair and Auto Painting franchisee is looking for energetic and dependable individuals to fill Sanding positions. While this position is focused ...

Goebel Cabinetry

Sander/Finishing Prep

Exton, PA · On-site

$18/hr

Goebel Cabinetry is a family-owned and operated custom cabinetry manufacturer with over 70 years of ... This includes filling, sanding, and inspecting surfaces to ensure a smooth and defect-free finish.

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsSanding Operator Jobs

Sanding Operator information

See salary details

$5

$17

$22

How much do sanding operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for sanding operator in the United States is $17.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Sanding Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with prior experience in manufacturing or woodworking often preferred. Familiarity with sanding machines, hand tools, and basic safety certifications are typically required. Strong work ethic, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions and maintain quality standards are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential to ensure precise finishes, maintain productivity, and uphold safety and quality in a manufacturing environment.

What are some typical challenges a Sanding Operator might face on the job, and how can they be overcome?

Sanding Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent surface quality, managing dust and debris, and handling repetitive tasks. To overcome these, it's important to regularly inspect sandpaper or sanding belts for wear, follow proper equipment maintenance schedules, and use personal protective equipment to minimize exposure to dust. Collaborating closely with other production team members ensures workflow efficiency and helps maintain safety standards. Embracing best practices and ongoing training can also help operators stay effective and reduce errors.

What are Sanding Operators?

Sanding Operators are skilled workers who operate sanding machines to smooth, finish, or polish wood, metal, or other materials. They set up, monitor, and adjust sanding equipment to ensure surfaces meet quality standards and specifications. Sanding Operators may work in manufacturing, woodworking, or construction industries, often collaborating with other production staff to produce finished goods. Their role also includes inspecting materials for defects and maintaining equipment for optimal performance.

What is the difference between Sanding Operator vs Finishing Technician?

AspectSanding OperatorFinishing Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, basic training in sanding techniquesHigh school diploma, specialized finishing or coating certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, woodworking shops, manufacturing plantsFurniture factories, auto body shops, manufacturing facilities
Job FocusSurface preparation through sanding, smoothing surfacesApplying finishes, coatings, and final surface treatments
Tools & EquipmentSanding machines, hand sandersSpray guns, brushes, finishing tools

While both roles involve surface work in manufacturing settings, a Sanding Operator primarily focuses on preparing surfaces by sanding, whereas a Finishing Technician applies coatings and finishes to achieve the final look. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Sanding Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Sanding Operator jobs? The most popular types of Sanding Operator jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Sanding Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Sanding Operator jobs are:
Sanding Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sanding Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 9% Temporary, 1% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $35,866 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Sanding and Robot Operator - 3rd Shift

AEG Presents

North Ridgeville, OH • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

In order to be considered for this role, after clicking "Apply Now" above and being redirected, you must fully complete the application process on the follow-up screen. SUMMARY OF POSITION The Sanding and Robot Operator - 3rd Shift position sets up, operates and maintains multiple robotic sanding cells as trained and instructed to meet or exceed defined production targets. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (other duties as assigned)
  • Operates multiple robotic sanding cells with the loading and unloading of helmets to maximize robot time sanding while also ensuring quality.
  • Identify helmet models to be sanded and correctly set the machine fixturing to ensure quality sanding.
  • Load and unload helmets from the fixturing proplerly.
  • Organize and maintain the machine fixturing so that they can be easily found as needed.
  • Operate the computer controls of each cell to select the proper program for the paint color being sanded.
  • Load the robot sanding tool as needed with the proper sand paper grit per the program running.
  • Change the interface pads and backup pads on each cell running as needed to maintain quality sanding.
  • Identify and communicate issues quickly to the GrayMatter Team using the Hot Line and the Team Viewer communication tool.
  • Communicate issues immediately to Team Leader and Supervisor.
  • Observes all safety rules and regulations.
  • Exercises care and good judgment at all times to prevent accidents and injuries.
  • Adheres to all company policies, procedures, rules, and BRG Code of Conduct.
  • Practices good housekeeping by keeping work cells clean and organized.
  • Performs other duties and tasks as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each essential duty and responsibility listed above. The job requirements and physical demands listed below are representative of the required knowledge, skill, and/or ability to perform the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties and responsibilities. JOB REQUIREMENTS
  • Authorized to work in the U.S.
SKILLS
  • Ability to perform simple mathematical calculations.
  • Ability to effectively relate with others and cooperate as a team member.
  • Ability to perform essential functions and responsibilities of the job with some supervision.
  • Must be flexible.
  • Careful attention to detail.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in one-on-one and small group situations within the organization as well as to GrayMatter Robotics using the HotLine and Team Viewer app.
  • Ability to rely on judgment for personal safety regarding work.
  • Ability to write simple correspondence to communicate issues between shifts.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds at a time.
  • Sufficient hand, eye, arm, and finger dexterity to load and unload the robotic sanding fixtures.
  • Must wear safety glasses and hearing protection in designated areas.
  • Prolonged periods of standing and/or walking while also performing repetitive tasks.
  • Prolonged periods of bending/twisting throughout a work shift.
Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply