Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand
O*NET 51-9022.00 · SOC 51-9022
Grinding and Polishing Worker is a risky career choice. Median pay is $43k a year with -19.2% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 700 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Sand metal or wood surfaces using handheld abrasive tools
- →Polish finished parts to remove scratches and surface defects
- →Select appropriate grit sandpaper for each material type
- →Inspect polished surfaces to ensure smoothness meets standards
- →Apply polishing compounds to surfaces by hand using cloths
Education & How to Get In
Grinding and Polishing Worker roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths — you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Grinding and Polishing Worker involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Grinding and Polishing Worker?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Grinding and Polishing Worker Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand is projected to decline 19.2% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·51% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress
- ·Declining employment suggests structural disruption
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Grinding and Polishing Worker make?
The median Grinding and Polishing Worker earns $43k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Grinding and Polishing Worker jobs?
Our model puts Grinding and Polishing Worker at 60 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 51% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress; declining employment suggests structural disruption.
Is Grinding and Polishing Worker a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 19.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 700 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Grinding and Polishing Worker?
Most Grinding and Polishing Worker roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Grinding and Polishing Worker?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Grinding and Polishing Worker career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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