Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand

Perform finishing operations on metal, wood, stone, clay, plastic, glass, and other materials using hand tools or portable power tools. Incorporates shredders, grinders, and polishers.

Career Snapshot

ABOUT HAND GRINDING OR POLISHING WORKER CAREERS

Assembly lines can almost completely complete a manufacturing object. Indeed, some manufactured goods are packaged without ever being touched by human hands. However, many products require the finishing touches that only hand grinders and polishers can deliver. 

These craftsmen grind and polish metal, stone, clay, plastic, and glass objects or parts with hand tools and hand-held power equipment. They may also be responsible for the repair and maintenance of equipment, the sharpening of abrasive grinding instruments, and the application of solutions and chemicals. 

You may be referred to as a grinder, chipper, polisher, buffer, or sander depending on the substance you work with and the instruments you employ. Typically, this position requires only little on-the-job training. To perform it successfully, you must be skilled with your hands and understand the phases of the specific process for which you have been employed. You must be able to perform the same task repeatedly without losing focus. 

Working circumstances can be noisy, and you will almost certainly be required to wear protective equipment, such as safety glasses, to protect yourself from flying particles. Grinding and polishing work is enjoyable for people who enjoy making things since it brings the item closer to perfection.

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Characteristics

Exposure to extreme environmental conditions
Job challenge and pressure to meet deadlines
Level of responsibilities
Critical decision making
Leadership
Physical demands
Exposure to job hazards
Dealing and handling conflicts
Communication with others
Work closely with team members, clients etc.
Comfort of the work setting
Competition for this position

Activities

Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Know More
Controlling Machines and Processes Know More
Getting Information Know More
Handling and Moving Objects Know More
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Know More
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material Know More
Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Know More
Performing General Physical Activities Know More

Areas of Study

Administration and Management Know More
Education and Training Know More
Engineering and Technology Know More
English Language Know More
Mathematics Know More
Mechanical Know More
Production and Processing Know More
Public Safety and Security Know More

Degrees

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Top Skills

Active Listening Know More
Equipment Maintenance Know More
Operation Monitoring Know More
Operation and Control Know More
Quality Control Analysis Know More
Repairing Know More
Speaking Know More
Troubleshooting Know More