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CP
CHASE Professionals
Grinder/ Precision Grinding Machine Operator
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Based on Illinois data
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What they do
A Grinder or Sharpener operates grinding machinery used to sharpen metal tools and blades.
$43,947 / year median in Illinois
-1% projected decline
Job Description
Grinder / Precision Grinding Machine Operator Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Grinder to operate grinding equipment and produce precision metal parts according to blueprints, dimensional tolerances, and established quality standards. Candidates must have previous hands-on grinding experience, be able to read and interpret blueprints, and know how to use precision measuring instruments. A hands-on measurement test will be administered during the hiring process. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Set up and operate assigned grinding machines. Perform rough and finish grinding operations on metal parts and components. Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, work orders, and job specifications. Identify required dimensions, tolerances, surface finishes, and grinding requirements. Select and install the appropriate grinding wheels, fixtures, tooling, and workholding equipment. Position and secure workpieces correctly before beginning operations. Adjust machine speeds, feed rates, wheel position, and grinding depth. Dress and maintain grinding wheels to ensure accurate cutting and consistent finishes. Monitor grinding operations for vibration, chatter, burning, wheel wear, and dimensional variations. Make controlled machine adjustments to maintain quality and prevent defective parts. Perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections. Measure part thickness, length, diameter, depth, flatness, and other required dimensions. Properly use precision measuring instruments, including: Digital, dial, and vernier calipers Outside, inside, and depth micrometers Height gauges Depth gauges Dial indicators Pin gauges Go/No-Go gauges Read and record measurements accurately in decimals and fractions. Compare completed parts against blueprint tolerances. Determine whether finished parts meet quality requirements. Identify and separate nonconforming, defective, or damaged parts. Notify the supervisor or Quality Department of dimensional problems or repeated defects. Complete production records, inspection reports, and work orders accurately. Maintain accurate counts of completed, rejected, and reworked parts. Perform deburring, polishing, cleaning, and other finishing operations when required. Handle completed parts carefully to prevent scratches, dents, or other damage. Inspect machinery and grinding wheels before beginning work. Perform basic preventive maintenance and report equipment problems. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area. Follow all machine-safety, grinding-wheel, and personal protective equipment requirements. Perform additional machining, inspection, or production duties as assigned. Required Qualifications Previous hands-on grinding experience in a manufacturing, machining, or metalworking environment. Ability to set up and operate grinding equipment safely. Knowledge of grinding processes, grinding-wheel selection, and wheel dressing. Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, dimensions, and tolerances. Proficiency with calipers, micrometers, gauges, and dial indicators. Ability to accurately read and record measurements in decimals and fractions. Ability to determine whether parts meet blueprint specifications. Strong mechanical aptitude and basic shop-math skills. Ability to recognize grinding defects, poor finishes, and dimensional variations. Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions. Ability to complete production and inspection documentation. Dependable attendance and the ability to work the assigned schedule. Preferred Qualifications Experience with surface, cylindrical, centerless, OD, ID, or production grinding equipment. Experience producing close-tolerance metal parts. Knowledge of first-piece, in-process, and final inspection procedures. Familiarity with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing. Experience working in an ISO-certified manufacturing environment. Experience identifying and correcting chatter, burning, taper, poor surface finishes, and dimensional inconsistencies. Experience with manual or CNC grinding equipment. Required Hiring Assessment Candidates selected to continue in the hiring process must complete a hands-on measurement and skills test.