Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners

Perform precision smoothing, sharpening, polishing, or grinding of metal objects.

Median Annual Wage: $35,420

Education: High school diploma or equivalent (63%); Post-secondary certificate (23%); Less than high school diploma (13%)

Projected Growth: Little or no change (-2% to 2%)

Related Job Titles: Finisher; Grinder; Polisher; CNC Operator (Computer Numerically Controlled Operator); Tool Grinder; Saw Filer; Tool and Cutter Grinder; Cutter Grinder; Crankshaft Grinder; Cutter Grind Tool Technician

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners.

More Production Careers

  • Monitor machine operations to determine whether adjustments are necessary, stopping machines when problems occur.
  • Inspect, feel, and measure workpieces to ensure that surfaces and dimensions meet specifications.
  • Set up and operate grinding or polishing machines to grind metal workpieces such as dies, parts, and tools.
  • Remove finished workpieces from machines and place them in boxes or on racks, setting aside pieces that are defective.
  • File or finish surfaces of workpieces, using prescribed hand tools.
  • Select and mount grinding wheels on machines, according to specifications, using hand tools and applying knowledge of abrasives and grinding procedures.
  • Perform basic maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating machine parts.
  • Remove and replace worn or broken machine parts, using hand tools.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners.

  • Quality Control Analysis - Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
  • Equipment Maintenance - Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
  • Repairing - Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
  • Operation and Control - Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  • Equipment Selection - Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners.

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