Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, & Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, & Tenders, Metal & Plastic: Salary Guide 2025
Grinding, lapping, polishing, and buffing machine tool setters, operators, and tenders in the metal and plastic industries earn a national median salary of $46,550 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean annual wage is $48,170, or about $22 per hour. Most workers in this field earn between $36,110 (10th percentile) and $62,600 (90th percentile).
How much Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, & Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, & Tenders, Metal & Plastic earn
The national median salary for this occupation is $46,550, with a mean wage of $48,170. Hourly pay averages around $22. The typical range extends from $36,110 at the 10th percentile to $62,600 at the 90th percentile. These figures are from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey.
Pay varies by experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions start near $36,110, while highly skilled workers in top-paying regions can earn over $62,600.
- Median annual wage: $46,550
- Mean annual wage: $48,170 (about $22/hour)
- 10th percentile: $36,110
- 90th percentile: $62,600
Pay by state
Where you work significantly affects your pay. Oregon offers the highest average salary at $57,290, followed by Minnesota ($51,780), Massachusetts ($50,910), Vermont ($50,640), and West Virginia ($49,950). At the lower end, Oklahoma pays an average of $38,570, Alabama $38,170, and New Mexico $38,020. These state averages represent all experience levels, so starting wages will be lower.
- Highest-paying states: Oregon ($57,290), Minnesota ($51,780), Massachusetts ($50,910), Vermont ($50,640), West Virginia ($49,950)
- Lowest-paying states: Oklahoma ($38,570), Alabama ($38,170), New Mexico ($38,020)
How to become Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, & Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, & Tenders, Metal & Plastic
Most workers in this occupation learn through on-the-job training that lasts a few months to a year. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Some technical schools and community colleges offer certificate or associate degree programs in machine tool technology, which can provide foundational skills and improve job prospects.
No formal licensing is required for most roles, but employers often prefer candidates with basic math skills, mechanical aptitude, and attention to detail. Proficiency with micrometers, calipers, and other precision measuring tools is commonly developed on the job.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED
- Complete on-the-job training (usually several months to a year)
- Consider a certificate or associate degree in machine tool technology from a technical school or community college
- Develop skills in using precision measuring tools and reading blueprints
Job outlook
Employment for grinding, lapping, polishing, and buffing machine tool setters, operators, and tenders is projected to decline by 12% from 2024 to 2034, according to the BLS. That's a loss of about 8,000 jobs over the decade, driven by automation and increased use of CNC machines that require fewer manual operators. Despite the decline, about 5,500 openings per year are expected as workers retire or leave the occupation, creating opportunities for new entrants.
Frequently asked questions
How much do grinding, lapping, polishing, and buffing machine tool setters, operators, and tenders make an hour?
The mean hourly wage is about $22, according to the BLS. It varies by state and experience.
Is this job in demand?
No. Employment is expected to decline 12% from 2024 to 2034, but about 5,500 openings per year will still occur due to turnover.
What education is needed?
A high school diploma is typical. Most training is on the job. Certificate programs at technical schools can help.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, & Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, & Tenders, Metal & Plastic data.