The Grinding Technician is responsible for setup, operation, in-process inspection, and troubleshooting of grinding equipment to produce high-precision components that meet customer specifications and quality standards. This role supports finishing operations from setup through final In Process inspection and plays a critical role in maintaining tight tolerances and superior surface finishes while contributing to continuous improvement in a manufacturing environment
Key Responsibilities
- Set up, align, and operate Blanchard Grinders and Rotary Surface Grinders
- Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, GD&T, and customer specifications
- Select grinding wheels, machine settings, and tooling for optimal performance
- Perform wheel dressing, balancing, machine adjustments, and basic preventive maintenance
- Inspect parts during production using calipers, micrometers, indicators, pin gauges, and Keyence measurement systems
- Maintain tight tolerances, surface finish requirements, and quality standards
- Troubleshoot dimensional, quality, and process-related issues
- Document production data, inspection results, scrap, and job information in Excel and ERP systems (Invex)
- Support lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and 5S initiatives
- Load, unload, stage, clean, inspect, and package finished parts as needed
- Follow all company safety, OSHA, and environmental policies
Required Qualifications
- High School Diploma or GED
- 2+ years of experience in grinding, machining, or precision manufacturing
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
- Experience using precision measurement and inspection equipment
- Strong math skills, including fractions, decimals, and metric-to-imperial conversions
- Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience operating Blanchard Grinders and Rotary Surface Grinders
- Experience in a precision machining, aerospace, metals, or manufacturing environment
- Knowledge of grinding wheels, dressing techniques, and surface finish requirements
- Familiarity with ERP systems and production reporting
Skills & Competencies
- Precision Grinding
- Surface Grinding
- Blueprint Reading
- GD&T Interpretation
- Quality Inspection
- Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis
- Preventive Maintenance
- Lean Manufacturing / Continuous Improvement
- 5S Methodology
- Teamwork & Communication
Physical Requirements
- Lift up to 50 lbs occasionally
- Frequent handling of tools, components, and inspection equipment
- Ability to stand for extended periods and perform detailed inspection work
Work Environment
Manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise, coolants, and metalworking operations.