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Tool Sharpener Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operate and/or set up manual & CNC milling machine, manual & CNC lathe, band saw, drill press, sanders, Mig and Tig welders, measuring tools, and tool sharpener. 8.Basic understanding and ability to ...

NDI Maintenance Machinist

Columbus, IN · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Selects, aligns, and secures holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, and materials on manual machines such as mills, lathes, surface grinders, drill sharpener, tool post grinder ...

NDI Maintenance Machinist

Columbus, IN · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Selects, aligns, and secures holding fixtures, cutting tools, attachments, accessories, and materials on manual machines such as mills, lathes, surface grinders, drill sharpener, tool post grinder ...

Tool Sharpener information

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$12

$19

$25

How much do tool sharpener jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for tool sharpener in the United States is $19.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Tool Sharpeners?

Tool Sharpeners are skilled workers responsible for maintaining, sharpening, and repairing a variety of cutting tools used in manufacturing, woodworking, metalworking, and other industries. They use specialized machines and hand tools to ensure tools like saw blades, drill bits, knives, and chisels remain effective and precise. Proper sharpening extends the life of tools and improves the quality of work produced, making this role essential in settings where sharp tools are critical for efficiency and safety.

What is the difference between Tool Sharpener vs Tool Grinder?

AspectTool SharpenerTool Grinder
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical or vocational training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or workshop settings, focusing on sharpening toolsManufacturing, machine shops, or industrial environments, involving grinding processes
Job FocusRestoring cutting edges of tools like blades and chiselsGrinding and shaping metal parts, including tools and machine components

While both Tool Sharpeners and Tool Grinders work in manufacturing environments and require technical skills, Tool Sharpeners primarily focus on restoring and maintaining cutting edges of hand tools and blades. Tool Grinders, on the other hand, perform more precise grinding and shaping of metal parts, often involving larger machinery. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in manufacturing industries.

What is a sharpener job?

A tool sharpener is a skilled worker who restores the cutting edges of tools such as blades, knives, and industrial equipment using grinding wheels or other sharpening tools. The job requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and knowledge of different sharpening techniques and safety procedures.

What is a professional knife sharpener called?

A professional knife sharpener is often referred to as a cutlery or knife sharpening specialist. They typically use specialized tools like sharpening stones, honing rods, or electric sharpeners and may hold certifications such as those from the National Knife Sharpeners Association. These professionals work in culinary, retail, or repair settings to ensure blades are properly sharpened and maintained.

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

To thrive as a Tool Sharpener, you need a solid understanding of metallurgy, tool geometry, and sharpening techniques, often gained through vocational training or on-the-job experience. Familiarity with grinding machines, precision measuring tools, and safety protocols is essential. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills for achieving high-quality results. These skills ensure tools are sharpened accurately and safely, supporting productivity and precision in manufacturing or workshop environments.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

For a Tool Sharpener, earning $4,000 a week typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries such as manufacturing or industrial maintenance. Such high earnings are often associated with skilled trades, freelance work, or supervisory roles that do not require a college degree but do demand certifications and expertise. These positions may involve long hours, physical work, or working in hazardous environments.

Is there money in knife sharpening?

Tool sharpeners can earn income through providing knife sharpening services to individuals and businesses, often charging per item or by the hour. Income varies based on skill level, location, and client base, with experienced sharpeners in commercial settings potentially earning a steady income. Developing skills with proper tools and certifications can improve earning potential in this trade.

What are some common challenges faced by tool sharpeners, and how can they be addressed?

Tool sharpeners often encounter challenges such as working with a variety of tool materials, maintaining precision with each sharpening, and ensuring consistent quality under time constraints. Adapting to different shapes and edge requirements requires a keen eye for detail and hands-on experience. To address these challenges, staying updated on the latest sharpening techniques, using well-maintained equipment, and collaborating closely with machinists or tool users for feedback can significantly improve outcomes and efficiency.
More about Tool Sharpener jobs
Pattern Technician

Pattern Technician

Donsco Inc

Wrightsville, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Donsco rating

3.3

Company rating: 3.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB:
    1.Assemble complex parts.
    2.Make complex repairs to patterns and core boxes.
    3.Remove, rebuild and replace runner and gating components on patterns.
    4.Remount and rig patterns and core boxes to adapt to different machinery.
    5.Prepare materials for use of tooling.
    6.In depth understanding of simple and complex parts.
    7.Operate and/or set up manual & CNC milling machine, manual & CNC lathe, band saw, drill press, sanders, Mig and Tig welders, measuring tools, and tool sharpener.
    8.Basic understanding and ability to perform manual programming in G Code.
    9.Able to Read and understand blueprints and layouts.
    10.Complete appropriate documentation, electronic and/or hard copy.
    11.Identify scrap issues and report to group lead.
    12.Perform daily PM on equipment and report any defective equipment to group lead.
    13.Adheres to 6s and safety procedures.
    14.Other duties as assigned.
ESSENTIAL JOB REQUIREMENTS (BACKGROUND/SKILL/TRAINING):
    1.High school diploma, GED and/or 1-2 years of previous manufacturing experience preferred.
    2.Detail oriented and ability to multitask.
    3.Demonstrates general mathematical skills
    4.Read and understand blueprints.
    5.Demonstrates mechanical and assembly abilities.
    6.Possess good communication and interpersonal skills; Able to work independently or as a team.
    7.Reads and understands English.
    8.Able to lift, push or pull up to 50lbs routinely.
    9.Able to work over-time as required by production.

What Donsco employees say

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About Donsco

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Coal, metals and minerals mining

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Wrightsville, PA, US

Year founded

1906