Careers · Production

Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand

Grinding and polishing workers use hand tools and power tools to finish metal, wood, stone, clay, plastic, or glass objects. They work in manufacturing plants, fabrication shops, jewelry studios, and construction sites, removing material and creating smooth or polished surfaces to meet specifications or aesthetic standards.

$42,660median pay, U.S., per year

$37,450–$49,980middle half earn

11Kemployed in the U.S.

High school diplomatypical education

LowAI exposure · AI tools touch only a small share of this work.

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A day in the work

Work typically involves operating sanders, grinders, or buffers to shape and finish parts or products. Tasks include measuring dimensions, selecting appropriate tools and abrasives, and inspecting finished work for quality. Workers may shift between different projects, clean equipment, maintain tools, and follow safety procedures when working with dust and power equipment.

Who this work suits

Realistic

100Conventional

38Artistic

17Investigative

9Social

1Enterprising

Holland code RCA. 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 tend to be practical and detail-oriented, comfortable working with machinery and hand tools. You prefer structured tasks with clear standards and take satisfaction in producing precise, finished work rather than managing people or dealing with constant change.

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

Quality Control AnalysisOperations MonitoringOperation and ControlEquipment MaintenanceRepairingActive ListeningSpeakingCritical Thinking

Knowledge areas

Production and ProcessingMechanicalEnglish LanguageMathematics (knowledge)Education and TrainingCustomer and Personal Service

Pay by state

State	25th pct	Median	75th pct	Employed
Vermont	$50,700	$56,850	$59,570	50
Minnesota	$44,750	$51,930	$59,010	120
Rhode Island	$48,530	$51,630	$51,630	130
Montana	$47,700	$50,460	$50,700	—
Virginia	$37,750	$48,830	$65,540	330
Connecticut	$47,680	$48,670	$58,480	230
Kansas	$42,960	$48,410	$55,420	100
Maryland	$47,940	$48,390	$55,480	—
New Hampshire	$44,260	$47,920	$51,750	40
New Jersey	$40,110	$47,840	$57,890	300
Wisconsin	$37,450	$47,790	$55,960	290
Delaware	$32,720	$47,780	$47,780	40

All 40 states

Training

Local training programs Certifications Licenses in your state Apprenticeships

Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.

Job titles in this occupation

Polisher Grinder

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Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against grinding and polishing workers, hand and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.

Find out in 15 minutes See openings

O*NET-SOC 51-9022.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.