Skip to main content
Tallo logoTallo logo

Find Jobs

Find Jobs Near You – Available Work in Your Location

Skip to job details

Back to Results

Apply for this opportunity

To apply for this job, you'll continue to an external website or email application.

W3Global

Conventional / Sinker EDM Operator

Career Insights for Grinder / Sharpener

See where this job fits in the broader career landscape. Knowing your career path helps you see what's possible from here.

Scorecard

Based on Illinois data

Review key factors to help you decide if this role fits your goals. How is this calculated?

Were these scores useful?

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

Explore Career

Job Description

Position:
Conventional /
Sinker EDM OperatorLocation:
Rockford, ILFull-time Benefits:
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTORole Overview:
An experienced Conventional (Sinker) EDM Operator with a minimum of 5 years of hands-on expertise is sought to join a precision-focused team. The role involves setting up, programming, operating, and maintaining RAM/Sinker EDM machinery to produce complex, high-accuracy components and tooling for demanding applications.
Key Responsibilities:
Machine operation & setup: Perform advanced setups, select tooling, align workpieces, and configure electrode systems.

Blueprints & specifications: Interpret complex engineering drawings, 3D models, and GD&T specifications to maintain tolerances down to .0002".
Electrode preparation:
Fabricate, dress, inspect, and qualify graphite and copper tungsten electrodes.

Process optimization: Define burn parameters, spark gaps, machine speeds, dielectric flushing, and duty cycles for alloys and tool steels.

Quality control: Conduct in-process inspections using comparators, micrometers, height gauges, and CMM equipment to ensure zero-defect output.

Maintenance & safety: Perform routine maintenance on EDM machines and filtration systems while maintaining a clean, safe work environment.
Required Qualifications:
Experience:
Minimum 5 years operating Conventional/Sinker EDM machines in precision job shop, aerospace, or mold/die environments.

Technical skills: Strong background in blueprint reading, GD&T, bench inspection, and electrode preparation.

Machining math: Solid understanding of shop math, geometry, and trigonometry.

Precision focus: Ability to work with tight-tolerance prototype and production components.
Troubleshooting:
Skilled in diagnosing cut issues, flushing problems, or surface finish defects and adjusting parameters independently.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with Mitsubishi & Sodick EDM controls or similar.

Dual experience with Wire EDM or CNC Milling/Jig Grinding.

Background in ISO 9001 or AS9100 quality environments.
What's Offered:
Competitive hourly wages (commensurate with experience)Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance401(k) retirement plan with company matchPaid time off (PTO) and holidaysClean, climate-controlled work environmentOpportunities for growth and training on advanced machinery

Benefits

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Other Retirement and Savings
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance