Job Description
Tool cutter grinders set up and operate grinding machines such as surface and universal, carbide, drill, and tool-and-cutter grinders to sharpen cutting tools to specifications. They use blueprints, job orders and knowledge of abrasives and metal properties. They review the blueprints and job orders in order to plan production sequence. They use fixed gauges, micrometers, calipers, optical compurgators and surface gauges. These workers may grind special form tools involving special setups and wheel dressing, and may analyze specifications and select tooling to be used on production jobs. They may also design, modify or make special tools according to specifications or tooling requirements.

Working Conditions
Work is usually performed indoors in a shop environment around a variety of sharpening, cutting and measuring equipment.

Wages
Beginning apprentices start at approximately 50 percent of the journey-level wage. Upon successful completion of required class work and on-the-job hours, wages increase usually every six months, until the journey-level rate is achieved.

Length of Apprenticeship
The apprenticeship lasts three and one-half years. Apprentices must complete a minimum of 160 hours per year of related training and a total of 7,360 hours on-the-job training.

Minimum Qualifications
Apprenticeship applicants must be at least 18 years of age. In addition, they must proof of high school graduation or general education development (GED) equivalent.

Apprenticeship Committees
Click on the ID number to see the journey wages rate.

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