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Surface Grinder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Surface Grinder

Clinton Township, MI

$30 - $35/hr

We are seeking a highly skilled Surface Grinder to join our team . In this role, you will set up, operate, and maintain surface grinding machines to produce precision flat and contoured surfaces on a ...

Area Temps

Surface Grinder

Westlake, OH · On-site

$24/hr

Surface Grinder - Westlake, Ohio Schedule: Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Pay: $24/hr Type: Temp-to-Perm Opportunity Are you an experienced Surface Grinder looking for a stable ...

Oberg Industries

Surface Grinder

Freeport, PA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Surface Grinder to join our skilled machining team. This role is ideal for a hands-on machinist who takes pride in precision work, blueprint accuracy, and continuous ...

G.Z.Q.S.O.

Surface Grinder Hand

Troy, MI · On-site

Mattison Reciprocating Surface Grinder Hand - Summary A Mattison Reciprocating Surface Grinder Hand is a skilled trades machinist responsible for operating, setting up, and maintaining large Mattison ...

Oberg Industries

Surface Grinder

Freeport, PA · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Surface Grinder to join our skilled machining team. This role is ideal for a hands-on machinist who takes pride in precision work, blueprint accuracy, and continuous ...

G.Z.Q.S.O.

Surface Grinder Hand

Troy, MI · On-site

Mattison Reciprocating Surface Grinder Hand - Summary A Mattison Reciprocating Surface Grinder Hand is a skilled trades machinist responsible for operating, setting up, and maintaining large Mattison ...

Marathon-Personnel

Surface Grinder

North Houston, TX

Must have experience operating 24" and 96" large reciprocating surface grinders. * In-depth knowledge of the grinding process (wheel selection and offsets, wheel dressing, typical speeds and feeds ...

G.Z.Q.S.O.

Surface Grinder Hand

Troy, MI · On-site

Mattison Reciprocating Surface Grinder Hand - Summary A Mattison Reciprocating Surface Grinder Hand is a skilled trades machinist responsible for operating, setting up, and maintaining large Mattison ...

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Surface Grinder information

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$13

$22

$36

How much do surface grinder jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for surface grinder in the United States is $22.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do surface grinders make?

Surface grinders typically earn between $35,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and familiarity with precision tools can earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing or machining environments.

What are surface grinders?

Surface grinders are specialized machines used to produce a smooth finish on flat surfaces of metal or other materials. Operators of surface grinders set up, operate, and maintain these machines to ensure precise shaping and finishing of workpieces. The process involves using a rotating abrasive wheel to remove material, achieving tight tolerances and fine surface qualities required in manufacturing and metalworking industries.

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

To thrive as a Surface Grinder, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience with blueprint reading, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with precision measuring instruments, surface grinding machines, and CNC systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, manual dexterity, and focus on safety help professionals excel in this role. These skills and qualities ensure the production of high-quality components, minimize errors, and maintain workplace safety standards.

What can I do with a surface grinder?

A surface grinder is used by operators to precisely remove small amounts of material from metal or other hard surfaces, creating a smooth, flat finish. It is commonly employed in manufacturing and maintenance to achieve tight tolerances and high-quality surface finishes, often requiring knowledge of machine setup and safety procedures.

What is the highest paid machinist job?

The highest paid machinist jobs are often in specialized fields such as CNC machining, aerospace manufacturing, or precision grinding, including roles like CNC programmer or aerospace machinist. These positions typically require advanced skills, certifications, and experience, and can offer higher salaries compared to general machinist roles.

What is the difference between Surface Grinder vs Cylindrical Grinder?

AspectSurface GrinderCylindrical Grinder
Primary UseCreates flat surfaces on workpiecesProduces precise cylindrical or round shapes
Workpiece ShapeFlat, planar surfacesCylindrical or round parts
Work EnvironmentWorkshop with precision grinding machinesSimilar workshop setting, specialized for round parts
Common CertificationsMachining certifications, precision grinding trainingSimilar certifications, focus on cylindrical grinding techniques

Surface grinders and cylindrical grinders are both essential in machining, but they serve different purposes. Surface grinders are used to create flat surfaces, while cylindrical grinders shape round or cylindrical parts. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right tool for specific manufacturing needs.

What Is a Surface Grinder?

A surface grinder operates surface grinding machines to create smooth surfaces. Their job duties are to set up, maintain, and inspect the machine. They must select the proper wheeling and tooling for each workpiece. This career requires experience with the equipment, as well as materials such as stone, metal, and glass. Most employers provide on-the-job training, but schooling from a technical college is also available. Additional qualifications include knowledge of industry computer software, hand-eye coordination, and strong mathematical skills.

What is the job description of a surface grinder?

A surface grinder is responsible for using grinding machines to produce smooth, flat surfaces on metal or other materials. The job involves setting up and operating grinding equipment, measuring workpieces for precision, and ensuring quality standards are met. Skills in machine operation, attention to detail, and knowledge of safety procedures are essential for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Surface Grinders in maintaining precision and quality during production runs?

Surface Grinders often encounter challenges such as tool wear, maintaining tight tolerances, and ensuring consistent surface finishes, especially during long production runs. Variations in material hardness or improper machine setup can lead to dimensional inaccuracies. To address these issues, Surface Grinders routinely monitor equipment, make necessary adjustments, and perform regular maintenance. Close collaboration with quality control and engineering teams is also essential to quickly identify and resolve any inconsistencies, ensuring high-quality output.
More about Surface Grinder jobs
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What states have the most Surface Grinder jobs? States with the most job openings for Surface Grinder jobs include:
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What are popular job titles related to Surface Grinder jobs? For Surface Grinder jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Surface Grinder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Surface Grinder job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $47,007 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Surface Grinder

Surface Grinder

START

Clinton Township, MI

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

About the Role:

We are seeking a highly skilled Surface Grinder to join our team. In this role, you will set up, operate, and maintain surface grinding machines to produce precision flat and contoured surfaces on a variety of steels and alloys. You’ll work with tight tolerances, read technical prints, and play a key role in producing high-quality parts that meet strict customer specifications. If you take pride in your craft, enjoy hands-on work, and want to be part of a tight-knit skilled team, we want to hear from you.

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Key Responsibilities:
  • Set up and operate surface grinding machines, including programmable wet grinders and manual surface grinders. Equipment brands in use include **Okamoto **and Parker Majestic.
  • Select and mount grinding wheels, adjust speeds and feeds, and ensure proper fixturing based on part requirements.
  • Interpret blueprints, shop work orders, and technical drawings, including complex GD&T specifications.
  • **Perform in-process and final inspections **using precision measurement tools such as micrometers, calipers, and optical comparators.
  • Troubleshoot setups and maintain equipment, including wheel dressing and minor machine adjustments to ensure top performance.
  • Maintain high safety standards, following all company procedures and wearing appropriate PPE.
  • **Work closely with operations, engineering, and admin teams **to meet production and quality targets.
  • Other Duties as Requested

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Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • **Minimum of 5 years **of proven experience setting up and operating manual surface grinding machines.
  • Strong working knowledge of **programmable wet grinders **and manual surface grinders.
  • Experience with manual Parker Majestic, Okamoto Linear 618 or equivalent equipment required.
  • **Experience with Okamoto wet grinder **strongly preferred
  • Experience running a Blanchard grinder a major plus
  • High proficiency in **blueprint reading **and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
  • Familiarity with **low-volume, high-mix production **environments.
  • Steady hand, strong attention to detail, and a commitment to craftsmanship.
  • Ability to collaborate with team members and communicate effectively.
  • Must have own tools (e.g. micrometers, calipers, depth micrometer, etc.)

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The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

  • Work may require sitting, standing, or walking for extended periods, primarily on level surfaces.
  • Activities may involve reaching above shoulder height, below waist level, and lifting as needed to process or store materials.
  • Proper lifting techniques are required. Lifting up to 50 pounds may be necessary on occasion. Pushing or pulling with a maximum force of up to 150 pounds may also be required.
  • This position requires working in a manufacturing environment, with exposure to ambient room temperatures, standard lighting, and traditional manufacturing equipment.
  • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required, including safety glasses with side shields; hearing protection may be required under certain conditions.
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