Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic

What this job is

Set up, operate, or tend grinding and related tools that remove excess material or burrs from surfaces, sharpen edges or corners, or buff, hone, or polish metal or plastic work pieces.

What they do day to day

• Measure workpieces and lay out work, using precision measuring devices.
• Inspect or measure finished workpieces to determine conformance to specifications, using measuring instruments, such as gauges or micrometers.
• Set and adjust machine controls according to product specifications, using knowledge of machine operation.
• Observe machine operations to detect any problems, making necessary adjustments to correct problems.
• Activate machine start-up switches to grind, lap, hone, debar, shear, or cut workpieces, according to specifications.
• Study blueprints, work orders, or machining instructions to determine product specifications, tool requirements, and operational sequences.
• Lift and position workpieces, manually or with hoists, and secure them in hoppers or on machine tables, faceplates, or chucks, using clamps.
• Move machine controls to index workpieces, and to adjust machines for pre-selected operational settings.
• Select machine tooling to be used, using knowledge of machine and production requirements.
• Mount and position tools in machine chucks, spindles, or other tool holding devices, using hand tools.

Skills and knowledge that matter most

Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).

Education and preparation

Preparation level 2 of 5 — Some preparation. Usually a high school diploma; some previous work experience or training helps.

Typical entry education (BLS): High school diploma or equivalent.

Who this job suits

Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.

Job titles you'll see in postings

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