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.
Annual wage data for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
70,110
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $34,980. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,420. 50th percentile: U.S. $45,190. 75th percentile: U.S. $51,380. 90th percentile: U.S. $61,550. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $34,980 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $61,550 |
| Workers on average earn | $46,600 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
