Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
Grinding, lapping, polishing, and buffing machine tool operators set up and run equipment that removes excess material, smooths surfaces, sharpens edges, or polishes metal and plastic parts. These workers operate in manufacturing facilities, machine shops, and production plants, ensuring parts meet precise specifications and quality standards.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against grinding, lapping, polishing, and buffing machine tool setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves loading workpieces into grinding or polishing machines, adjusting tool angles and speeds, monitoring the operation to prevent damage, and removing finished parts. Operators measure pieces to verify they meet specifications, clean equipment, perform routine maintenance, and troubleshoot when machines produce inconsistent results. Work generally follows a structured schedule on the shop floor.
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 thrive on work with clear, measurable outcomes and prefer following established procedures and standards. You're detail-oriented, comfortable with mechanical equipment, and satisfied by seeing tangible results—watching raw parts transform into finished products through skill and precision.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $47,290 | $57,290 | $67,150 | 1,180 |
| Minnesota | $46,840 | $51,780 | $60,560 | 1,400 |
| Massachusetts | $45,440 | $50,910 | $60,380 | 2,420 |
| Vermont | $50,280 | $50,640 | $59,420 | 300 |
| West Virginia | $37,750 | $49,950 | $58,270 | 200 |
| Washington | $45,130 | $49,300 | $59,250 | 1,870 |
| New York | $43,590 | $49,290 | $60,270 | 2,410 |
| Kentucky | $42,790 | $49,160 | $58,490 | 850 |
| Connecticut | $39,080 | $48,590 | $58,720 | 1,530 |
| Nebraska | $38,980 | $48,500 | $49,680 | 300 |
| South Carolina | $45,020 | $48,040 | $58,340 | 1,730 |
| North Carolina | $38,210 | $47,770 | $53,760 | 1,610 |
All 48 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Machining Level I - Grinding I — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- Machining Level II - Cylindrical Grinding Skills — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
- Classic Credential: Grinding II (Surface) — National Institute for Metalworking Skills
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 grinding, lapping, polishing, and buffing machine tool setters, operators, and tenders, metal and plastic and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 51-4033.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.