Centerless Grinder Operator - Multiple Shift
Position Title: Centerless Grinder Operator - Machinist 2nd Shift & 4th Shift
Department: Swiss
Reports To: Production Manager
Position Summary
The Centerless Grinder Operator Machinist is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining centerless grinding equipment to manufacture precision medical device components that meet exacting quality, regulatory, and customer requirements. This role performs machine setup, process adjustments, in-process inspections, and troubleshooting to achieve tight tolerances, superior surface finishes, and consistent product quality. Working within a regulated medical device manufacturing environment, the Centerless Grinder Operator Machinist utilizes precision measuring instruments, interprets engineering drawings and GD&T specifications, and follows established quality systems, FDA regulations, ISO 13485 standards, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). The position requires strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and a commitment to continuous improvement, safety, and operational excellence while supporting production goals and customer expectations.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Set up and operate centerless grinding machines to produce tight-tolerance medical device components
Perform grinding wheel changes, dressing, and machine adjustments to ensure process stability and part quality
Read, interpret, and work from engineering drawings, blueprints, routings, and work instructions
Measure and inspect parts using precision measuring equipment including micrometers, calipers, pin gauges, and optical comparators
Conduct in-process inspections and accurately document results in accordance with quality system requirements
Make offsets and process adjustments to maintain dimensional accuracy and required surface finishes
Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve issues related to grinding processes, tooling, materials, and equipment.
Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant work area in accordance with 5S and clean manufacturing standards
Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements
Communicate effectively with engineering, quality, and production teams to resolve issues and support process improvements
Perform routine machine maintenance and notify supervision of equipment or tooling concerns
Participate in continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, and cost-reduction initiatives.
All other duties as assigned.
KEY SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND COMPETENCIES
Demonstrated ability to hold tight tolerances (±0.0005” or better preferred.
Understanding of FDA regulations, ISO 13485, GMP, and validation principles
Strong knowledge of grinding wheels, feeds, speeds, and material behavior
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, specifications, and GD&T
Proficiency with precision measurement and inspection tools
Basic computer skills for data entry, SPC, and quality documentation
Analytical thinking with a structured problem- solving approach
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and compliance
EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, AND/OR LICENSES REQUIREMENTS
Education
High School Diploma or Equivalent Required; technical training or machining certification preferred
Experience
Minimum of 2 years of experience operating and/or setting up centerless grinding machines (medical device or precision machining experience preferred)
Experience working in a regulated manufacturing environment preferred
SHIFTS
2nd Shift: Monday - Friday, 4:30 PM - 3:00 AM, includes shift differential
4th Shift: Friday - Sunday, 6:00 PM - 6:30 AM, includes shift differential