Surface Grinder Hand

Mattison Reciprocating Surface Grinder Hand – Job Description

Summary A Mattison Reciprocating Surface Grinder Hand is a skilled trades machinist responsible for operating, setting up, and maintaining large Mattison surface grinders used for precision flat grinding of steel, tool steel, die blocks, machine bases, and other heavy components. This role requires deep experience with manual grinding, machine alignment, wheel selection, and achieving tight tolerances on large workpieces.

Core Responsibilities

• Set up and operate Mattison reciprocating surface grinders (commonly 24"–60" tables).
• Read and interpret blueprints, tooling prints, and job travelers to determine grinding requirements.
• Select appropriate grinding wheels (grit, hardness, structure) for material type and finish requirements.
• Dress wheels using single-point diamond or rotary dressers to maintain geometry and surface finish.
• Indicate, square, and secure workpieces using clamps, magnetic chucks, parallels, and fixtures.
• Perform precision grinding to achieve flatness, parallelism, and finish requirements (often within .0005" or better).
• Monitor machine performance and adjust feeds, speeds, coolant flow, and wheel pressure.
• Inspect finished parts using micrometers, height gauges, straightedges, and surface plates.
• Maintain grinder including lubrication, coolant system checks, wheel changes, and minor repairs.
• Ensure safe operation of heavy grinding equipment and overhead cranes.

Required Skills & Experience

• 5 years experience operating Mattison or equivalent large reciprocating surface grinders.
• Strong understanding of:
• Wheel selection and dressing
• Heat control during grinding
• Flatness and parallelism requirements
• Heavy part handling and rigging
• Ability to grind hardened steels, tool steels, cast iron, and alloy materials.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Familiarity with shop safety, PPE, and coolant handling.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift 50 lbs and handle large workpieces.
• Comfortable working around heavy machinery, coolant, and abrasive dust.
• Standing for extended periods.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in tool & die, mold bases, machine bases, or heavy grinding shops.
• Experience with Mattison, Blanchard, or Okamoto grinders.
• Knowledge of geometric tolerancing (GD&T).

Sample Job Posting Version (Short Form)

Mattison Surface Grinder Operator – Metro Detroit Seeking an experienced Mattison reciprocating surface grinder hand to set up and operate large grinders for precision flat grinding. Must be able to read prints, select/dress wheels, achieve tight tolerances, and handle heavy parts. Full-time, competitive pay, skilled trades environment.