Production · SOC 51-4033
Automated cells handle standard grinding runs, but precise setup, quality inspection, and defect management still need skilled operators.
Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
Timeline: Automated grinding cells are common for high-volume aerospace parts; operators who learn CNC programming and inspection will weather the transition to automated lines through 2033.
Tap a skill to find courses on Coursera.
Some links are affiliate links — if you sign up or buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
$49,900 median pay
$33,880 median pay
$38,160 median pay
$38,260 median pay
$42,530 median pay
$122,610 median pay
AI job-risk card
Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic is resilient on AIFear. Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
AIFear.com
Our AI Fear Score for Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic is 20/100 (Resilient). Hands-on, interpersonal or high-stakes work AI struggles to replace.
20 out of 100, based on an AI-model review of this occupation's O*NET tasks against what current AI can actually do.
Most exposed: Computing machine indexings and settings from standard formulas, Logging dimensional measurements and cycle data, Generating setup sheets from blueprint specifications. Harder to automate: Inspecting and measuring finished parts for specification conformance, Observing and adjusting machine operations for emerging defects, Moving controls and indexing workpieces through grinding sequences, Interpreting blueprints and planning operational setups.
Lean into Precision grinding and finishing techniques, Dimensional measurement and gauging, Machine setup and cycle optimization, Blueprint and specification interpretation. Consider roles such as Precision machined parts inspector or Surface finishing specialist or CNC grinding machine programmer.
Tasks, skills and AI-exposure for this role were reviewed by an AI model against its O*NET task profile (curated roles use published research anchors). Pay and employment, where shown, are U.S. BLS OEWS (May 2024) figures. This is an estimate, not a prediction about any individual's job. Compare all occupations.