Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Set up, operate, or tend machines to crush, grind, or polish materials, such as coal, glass, grain, stone, food, or rubber.
SOC: 51-9021.00
Common Job Titles
Grinder
Machine Operator
Miller
Preparation Operator (Prep Operator)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate crushing, grinding, and polishing machinery to process materials such as coal, glass, grain, stone, food, or rubber following production specifications.
Proficient
Hands-onHandle raw materials and finished products using material handling equipment such as forklifts, loaders, and hoisting devices in production environments.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess machine operations and material flow through continuous monitoring of processes, materials, and surroundings to ensure optimal performance.
Developing
KnowledgeEvaluate finished product quality against standards using quality control analysis techniques to determine compliance with specifications.
Developing
Hands-onPerform routine equipment maintenance and minor repairs using hand tools, power tools, and mechanical knowledge to prevent downtime.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze machine malfunctions and process irregularities through troubleshooting techniques to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
Developing
Hands-onExecute machine setup and calibration procedures adjusting controls and settings to meet production specifications for different materials.
Developing
MindsetEngage with supervisors, peers, and team members to coordinate work activities, communicate safety concerns, and maintain production schedules.
Developing
KnowledgeApply public safety and security protocols in industrial settings to protect personnel and equipment while maintaining compliance with regulations.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain machine operation procedures and safety requirements when training new operators or providing guidance to less experienced team members.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
28,550
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,380. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,990. 50th percentile: U.S. $46,890. 75th percentile: U.S. $58,440. 90th percentile: U.S. $65,980. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$35,380
10% of workers earn the following or more
$65,980
Workers on average earn
$49,400
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Administration and Management3.5/5
Production and Processing3.4/5
English Language3.2/5
Education and Training3.2/5
Public Safety and Security3.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
