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Computer numerical controller machinist vs grinder

The differences between computer numerical controller machinists and grinders can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 2-4 years to become both a computer numerical controller machinist and a grinder. Additionally, a computer numerical controller machinist has an average salary of $41,685, which is higher than the $33,001 average annual salary of a grinder.

The top three skills for a computer numerical controller machinist include calipers, micrometers and manual lathes. The most important skills for a grinder are grinders, hand tools, and calipers.

Computer numerical controller machinist vs grinder overview

Computer Numerical Controller MachinistGrinder
Yearly salary$41,685$33,001
Hourly rate$20.04$15.87
Growth rate1%1%
Number of jobs32,3453,409
Job satisfaction-4
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 39%High School Diploma, 58%
Average age4848
Years of experience44

What does a computer numerical controller machinist do?

A computer numerical controller machinist is responsible for operating computer-based equipment, creating new machine components by programming, and evaluating machine blueprints. Computer numerical controller machinists must have extensive knowledge of the technology industry to understand its complexities and define accurate solutions, as well as excellent analytical skills for calculation requirements. Other tasks include interpreting specifications and parameters, monitoring stock inventory, requesting operating tools, verifying accurate measurements, detecting machine malfunctions, and adhering to the safety standards and procedures of the operations area.

What does a grinder do?

Depending on the industry, a grinder has a diverse range of duties. Typically, they oversee setting up and operating bearing grinders, cam grinders, and CNC lathes. A grinder must meet with the manufacturer's specifications by making use of shop drawings. Additionally, they may be tasked with repairing any mechanical breakdowns on the machines.

Computer numerical controller machinist vs grinder salary

Computer numerical controller machinists and grinders have different pay scales, as shown below.

Computer Numerical Controller MachinistGrinder
Average salary$41,685$33,001
Salary rangeBetween $30,000 And $56,000Between $26,000 And $40,000
Highest paying CityCoon Rapids, MNTualatin, OR
Highest paying stateNew MexicoNew Mexico
Best paying companyAmphenolKennametal
Best paying industryTechnologyAutomotive

Differences between computer numerical controller machinist and grinder education

There are a few differences between a computer numerical controller machinist and a grinder in terms of educational background:

Computer Numerical Controller MachinistGrinder
Most common degreeHigh School Diploma, 39%High School Diploma, 58%
Most common majorPrecision Metal WorkingPrecision Metal Working
Most common college--

Computer numerical controller machinist vs grinder demographics

Here are the differences between computer numerical controller machinists' and grinders' demographics:

Computer Numerical Controller MachinistGrinder
Average age4848
Gender ratioMale, 93.6% Female, 6.4%Male, 91.3% Female, 8.7%
Race ratioBlack or African American, 4.0% Unknown, 3.7% Hispanic or Latino, 15.1% Asian, 6.4% White, 70.3% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5%Black or African American, 4.0% Unknown, 3.7% Hispanic or Latino, 14.7% Asian, 6.3% White, 70.7% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5%
LGBT Percentage3%3%

Differences between computer numerical controller machinist and grinder duties and responsibilities

Computer numerical controller machinist example responsibilities.

  • Calculate dimensions and tolerances using instruments such as micrometers and calipers.
  • Set up and operate OKUMA CNC lathe and MAZAK CNC lathe to machine various high pressure cylinders.
  • Have had experience and handle deburr and clipping work on the 446 and lit operations on the drill press of 413.
  • Fulfill calculating requirements, including basic math, geometry, and trigonometry.
  • Verify dimensions of parts machine using micrometers, calipers and other precision measuring instruments.
  • Verify conformance of finish work pieces to specifications using measuring instruments including microscopes, gauges, calipers and micrometers.
  • Show more

Grinder example responsibilities.

  • Machine carbide, harden tool steel, harden stainless steel, and ceramic.
  • Verify dimensional compliance using micrometers, calipers, ultrasonic testing and similar types of dimensional inspection devices.
  • Set up and run O.D.
  • Support for lathes and EDM (i.e.
  • Grind drills, end mills, taps etc.
  • Set up and run surface grinder at 200 to 300/ hour.
  • Show more

Computer numerical controller machinist vs grinder skills

Common computer numerical controller machinist skills
  • Calipers, 7%
  • Micrometers, 7%
  • Manual Lathes, 6%
  • Math, 5%
  • G Code, 4%
  • Grinders, 4%
Common grinder skills
  • Grinders, 20%
  • Hand Tools, 12%
  • Calipers, 8%
  • Grinding Machines, 7%
  • Grinding Wheels, 7%
  • CNC, 6%

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