Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders
Crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders operate industrial machines that process raw materials into smaller pieces or refined products. Work takes place in factories, mills, and manufacturing plants that handle materials like coal, stone, grain, glass, food products, and rubber. The role involves machine setup, operation, monitoring, and routine maintenance.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Workers inspect machines before shifts begin and make adjustments to settings based on production specifications. During operation, they monitor machines for proper functioning, check material quality, and keep detailed records of output. Routine cleaning and maintenance occur throughout the shift. Setup time is needed when switching between different materials or product types. Most shifts are scheduled in regular full-time patterns, though some facilities run multiple shifts.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You prefer hands-on work with clear procedures and measurable results. You're detail-oriented, follow instructions well, and work steadily through repetitive tasks. You have practical problem-solving skills and notice when equipment isn't working right. This work suits people who like seeing concrete outcomes from their effort.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | $59,630 | $71,300 | $86,370 | 170 |
| Alaska | $39,330 | $68,730 | $79,530 | 60 |
| Iowa | $49,880 | $62,590 | $63,670 | 1,420 |
| Nevada | $48,580 | $60,180 | $78,710 | 660 |
| Montana | $46,070 | $60,110 | $61,250 | 260 |
| Nebraska | $46,870 | $58,920 | $61,950 | 270 |
| Vermont | $49,040 | $58,890 | $67,920 | 160 |
| West Virginia | $48,670 | $58,760 | $64,540 | 160 |
| New York | $47,250 | $58,090 | $68,820 | 950 |
| Minnesota | $49,280 | $56,550 | $72,090 | 660 |
| Oregon | $47,710 | $55,600 | $62,050 | 490 |
| Wisconsin | $46,580 | $54,580 | $59,940 | 530 |
All 47 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-9021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.