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Surface Grinder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CNC Surface Grinder

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

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 ...

CNC Surface Grinder

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

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 ...

SURFACE GRINDERS

Lakewood, OH · On-site

$17 - $17.25/hr

As a Surface Grinder you will operate a surface grinder and inspect saws and blanks. This is a full-time entry level position, 1st shift, Monday to Friday. The successful candidate must know basic ...

SURFACE GRINDERS

Lakewood, OH · On-site

$17 - $17.25/hr

As a Surface Grinder you will operate a surface grinder and inspect saws and blanks. This is a full-time entry level position, 1st shift, Monday to Friday. The successful candidate must know basic ...

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OD/ID/Surface Grind Hand

Canton, MI · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Overview We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented OD/ID/Surface Grind Hand to join Antech Tool. In this role, you will be responsible for operating grinding machines to produce precision ...

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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 23, 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.
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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.

$23 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

The Metal Component Grinder is responsible for operating various grinding machines and tools to shape, finish, or smooth metal parts to precise specifications. This role requires diligence, mechanical aptitude, and a strong commitment to safety and quality standards
Job requirements

  • Physically able to stand at grinding machine for long hours and lift parts up to 45lbs without assistance.
  • Must be able to turn machine handle(s) for extended periods of time as is required to complete job(s).
  • Ability to accurately measure down to .0001 of an inch repeatedly.
  • Own precision micrometers from 0 to 2” and a high quality .0005” dial indicator at a minimum or able to purchase items within 30 days.
  • Must be extremely organized and keep their work area exceptionally clean.
  • Prior operational experience of manual mills preferred.
  • Full knowledge of gage blocks and gage pins and how to use them.
  • Understanding of speeds and feeds and how they relate to manual grinding.
  • Must fully understand squareness and how to inspect for squareness and how to manufacture a square part. 
  • Follow all safety procedures and protocols.
  • Must have a thorough knowledge of thermal expansion and how it relates to the grinding process.

Job Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required; technical training preferred
  • Proficient in basic mathematical skills including ability to calculate trigonometric functions.
  • 1–3 years of experience in metal grinding or machining
  • Familiarity with grinding tools, abrasives, and machine operation
  • Ability to read technical drawings and use precision measuring instruments
  • Effectively communicate with supervisor and peers in department

Skills and Competencies

  • Precise and meticulous
  • Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
  • Problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
  • Time management and ability to meet production deadlines
  • Teamwork and communication skills