Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners Salary 2025: $50,060 Median, -7.8% Decline
Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners earned a median salary of $50,060 per year in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage was $53,240, or about $24 per hour. Most workers in this trade fall between $35,350 (10th percentile) and $77,170 (90th percentile). Nationwide, only 5,600 people hold this occupation, and the BLS projects a 7.8% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034.
How much Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners earn
Pay varies widely by experience, industry, and location. The lowest-paid 10% earn less than $35,350, while the top 10% take home more than $77,170. The median—$50,060—is the midpoint. Because the workforce is small, even minor shifts in demand can affect wages significantly.
- National median: $50,060 per year ($24.07/hour)
- Mean wage: $53,240
- 10th percentile: $35,350
- 90th percentile: $77,170
Pay by state
Where you work matters enormously. Washington state pays the highest average wage at $75,190, followed by Oregon ($60,760), Idaho ($59,250), Ohio ($56,690), and Massachusetts ($56,600). On the low end, Tennesse ($36,920), Florida ($36,880), and Colorado ($33,970) offer the lowest averages. The gap between the highest and lowest states exceeds $41,000.
How to become Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpener
Most workers learn through on-the-job training lasting up to a year. Some vocational schools offer short certificate programs in machine tool technology or precision grinding. There is no formal licensing requirement, but employers often look for basic math, mechanical aptitude, and attention to detail. Apprenticeships are uncommon but can provide structured advancement.
- High school diploma or equivalent needed
- On-the-job training (typically up to 12 months)
- Optional: certificate from a trade school in machining or grinding
- No state license required
Job outlook
The BLS expects employment to shrink by 7.8% from 2024 to 2034, a loss of roughly 440 positions. That decline stems from automation and the import of sharpened tools from lower-cost countries. However, about 500 job openings are projected each year, mostly from workers retiring or leaving the trade. Competition will be strongest for experienced grinders.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners make an hour?
The mean hourly wage is about $24.07, based on the BLS median of $50,060 per year.
Is the demand for Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners growing?
No. The BLS projects a 7.8% decline in employment from 2024 to 2034, though about 500 openings per year will occur due to retirements.
What states pay Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners the most?
The highest-paying states are Washington ($75,190), Oregon ($60,760), Idaho ($59,250), Ohio ($56,690), and Massachusetts ($56,600).
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 Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners data.