Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders: A Comprehensive Guide
Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders are responsible for operating machines that process materials such as minerals, glass, ceramics, and chemicals. They are employed in a variety of industries, such as ore and mineral processing, manufacturing, and construction.
Examples of the Job
Examples of the job include:
- Setting up and operating grinding machines to grind metal workpieces such as dies, parts, and tools
- Setting up, operating, or tending machines to crush, grind, or polish materials, such as coal, glass, grain, stone, food, or rubber
- Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects
- Maintaining occupational health and safety standards
- Using hand and power tools
Education and Training
Employers generally look for candidates who have earned a high school diploma or equivalent and have completed vocational programs in industrial machinery or machine shop technology. However, some positions may require an associate’s degree or higher in a related field.
Aspiring Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders can enrol in vocational or technical programs. These programs help candidates develop the skills and knowledge required for the job. The programs teach students about machine operation, maintenance procedures, safety protocols, and materials handling.
Progression Between Levels
Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders can progress through the levels through training and experience. Typically, individuals start as assistants, where they learn the basics of the job under the guidance of experienced operators. After gaining experience, they may receive additional training to operate more complex machines.
Getting into the Field
Individuals who are new to the profession can start by applying for entry-level positions and undergoing on-the-job training. It may be beneficial to take courses in machine operation or maintenance to gain the necessary skills and knowledge.
It is also essential to develop the following qualities to succeed in the profession:
- Mechanical aptitude
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving skills
- Physical dexterity
- Communication skills
- Ability to work in a team
In conclusion, Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders play a crucial role in a variety of industries. They are responsible for operating machines that process materials such as minerals, glass, ceramics, and chemicals. Aspiring professionals can enrol in vocational or technical programs, develop the necessary skills and qualities, and work their way up the ladder.
| Occupation | Job Level | Union | Salary (Low) | Salary (High) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders | All workers | Union | $49,233.60 | – |
| Crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders | All workers | Nonunion | $41,620.80 | $40,123.20 |
| Crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders | Full-time | All levels | $45,801.60 | $41,849.60 |
| Crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders | Indiana | Union | $51,168.00 | – |
| Crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders | Kentucky | Time-based pay | $36,088.00 | $36,816.00 |
Crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders operate machines that crush, grind, and polish materials, such as coal, glass, grains, and rock. Their main duties include setting up machines, loading materials, and monitoring the machines’ operations. They may also adjust equipment to control factors such as temperature and pressure.
According to the salary data provided, the US national average salary for this occupation is $47,548.80 for Level 04 workers and $45,614.40 for workers who are unable to be leveled. The entry-level salary is $37,398.40, while experienced workers earn an average salary of $51,209.60. Full-time employees earn an average salary of $45,801.60.
The effects of unionization on this occupation are evident in the salary data provided. Union workers earn an average salary of $49,233.60, which is higher than the non-union average salary of $41,620.80. However, there is no data available on the salary range for union workers.
The data table shows that Crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders in Indiana who are part of a union earn an average salary of $51,168.00, while those in Kentucky who earn salaries based on time-based pay earn a range of $36,088.00 to $36,816.00.
