[Core] [71% incumbents] Inspect, feel, and measure workpieces to ensure that surfaces and dimensions meet specifications.
  DWAs: Inspect finishes of workpieces or finished products. | Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.

[Core] [71% incumbents] Select and mount grinding wheels on machines, according to specifications, using hand tools and applying knowledge of abrasives and grinding procedures.
  DWAs: Select production equipment according to product specifications. | Mount attachments or tools onto production equipment.

[Core] [71% incumbents] File or finish surfaces of workpieces, using prescribed hand tools.
  DWAs: Smooth metal surfaces or edges.

[Core] [71% incumbents] Perform basic maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating machine parts.
  DWAs: Clean production equipment. | Maintain production or processing equipment. | Lubricate production equipment.

[Supplemental] [71% incumbents] Inspect dies to detect defects, assess wear, and verify specifications, using micrometers, steel gauge pins, and loupes.
  DWAs: Measure dimensions of completed products or workpieces to verify conformance to specifications.

[Core] [70% incumbents] Monitor machine operations to determine whether adjustments are necessary, stopping machines when problems occur.
  DWAs: Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions. | Operate grinding equipment.

[Core] [70% incumbents] Study blueprints or layouts of metal workpieces to determine grinding procedures, and to plan machine setups and operational sequences.
  DWAs: Study blueprints or other instructions to determine equipment setup requirements. | Review blueprints or other instructions to determine operational methods or sequences.

[Core] [70% incumbents] Compute numbers, widths, and angles of cutting tools, micrometers, scales, and gauges, and adjust tools to produce specified cuts.
  DWAs: Calculate specific material, equipment, or labor requirements for production. | Set equipment controls to meet cutting specifications.

[Core] [70% incumbents] Turn valves to direct flow of coolant against cutting wheels and workpieces during grinding.
  DWAs: Adjust equipment controls to regulate coolant flow.

[Core] [70% incumbents] Set up and operate grinding or polishing machines to grind metal workpieces, such as dies, parts, and tools.
  DWAs: Operate grinding equipment.

[Core] [70% incumbents] Dress grinding wheels, according to specifications.
  DWAs: Apply solutions to production equipment.

[Core] [70% incumbents] Remove finished workpieces from machines and place them in boxes or on racks, setting aside pieces that are defective.
  DWAs: Remove products or workpieces from production equipment. | Package products for storage or shipment.

[Core] [70% incumbents] Remove and replace worn or broken machine parts, using hand tools.
  DWAs: Remove accessories, tools, or other parts from equipment. | Replace worn equipment components.

[Supplemental] [70% incumbents] Fit parts together in pre-assembly to ensure that dimensions are accurate.
  DWAs: Assemble machine tools, parts, or fixtures.

[Supplemental] [70% incumbents] Attach workpieces to grinding machines and form specified sections and repair cracks, using welding or brazing equipment.
  DWAs: Mount materials or workpieces onto production equipment. | Operate welding equipment.

[Supplemental] [70% incumbents] Place workpieces in electroplating solutions or apply pigments to surfaces of workpieces to highlight ridges and grooves.
  DWAs: Immerse objects or workpieces in cleaning or coating solutions. | Apply protective or decorative finishes to workpieces or products.

[Supplemental] [70% incumbents] Straighten workpieces and remove dents, using straightening presses and hammers.
  DWAs: Shape metal workpieces with hammers or other small hand tools.

[Supplemental] [69% incumbents] Duplicate workpiece contours, using tracer attachments.
  DWAs: Draw guide lines or markings on materials or workpieces using patterns or other references.

--- SKILLS ---
  Critical Thinking (imp:3.25 lvl:2.88) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Monitoring (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Reading Comprehension (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Active Listening (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Mathematics (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — Using mathematics to solve problems.
  Active Learning (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Writing (imp:2.50 lvl:2.25) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Speaking (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Learning Strategies (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Science (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Mechanical (imp:3.61 lvl:4.16) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Mathematics (imp:3.49 lvl:3.89) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  English Language (imp:3.13 lvl:3.02) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Production and Processing (imp:2.90 lvl:3.23) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Education and Training (imp:2.73 lvl:3.22) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:2.69 lvl:2.48) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  Administration and Management (imp:2.48 lvl:2.44) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  Engineering and Technology (imp:2.47 lvl:2.73) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Design (imp:2.41 lvl:2.53) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Computers and Electronics (imp:2.17 lvl:1.99) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  Administrative (imp:2.09 lvl:2.03) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Chemistry (imp:2.06 lvl:1.93) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Public Safety and Security (imp:2.05 lvl:1.75) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Transportation (imp:2.04 lvl:1.59) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Economics and Accounting (imp:2.03 lvl:1.40) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:1.99 lvl:1.62) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Physics (imp:1.88 lvl:1.56) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Sales and Marketing (imp:1.87 lvl:1.79) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Law and Government (imp:1.85 lvl:1.47) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Psychology (imp:1.61 lvl:1.08) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Communications and Media (imp:1.59 lvl:1.09) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Geography (imp:1.53 lvl:0.85) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an
  Foreign Language (imp:1.50 lvl:0.79) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Biology (imp:1.42) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Food Production (imp:1.40) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food
  Building and Construction (imp:1.40) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.37) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Telecommunications (imp:1.34) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.30) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.30) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  History and Archeology (imp:1.27) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.24) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  Fine Arts (imp:1.23) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform

--- ABILITIES ---
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:4.00 lvl:3.25) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Manual Dexterity (imp:3.88 lvl:3.50) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Finger Dexterity (imp:3.88 lvl:3.50) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Control Precision (imp:3.88 lvl:3.50) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Near Vision (imp:3.75 lvl:4.12) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.38 lvl:3.00) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Visualization (imp:3.38 lvl:3.38) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Selective Attention (imp:3.38 lvl:3.25) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Perceptual Speed (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Written Comprehension (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Rate Control (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Reaction Time (imp:3.12 lvl:3.50) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Information Ordering (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Category Flexibility (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Static Strength (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Auditory Attention (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Oral Comprehension (imp:2.88 lvl:3.12) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Oral Expression (imp:2.88 lvl:3.12) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:2.88 lvl:2.62) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Number Facility (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Trunk Strength (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Far Vision (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:2.88 lvl:2.62) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Depth Perception (imp:2.75 lvl:2.50) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Speech Recognition (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Time Sharing (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:2.62 lvl:2.50) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 
  Speech Clarity (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Written Expression (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Memorization (imp:2.50 lvl:2.12) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Speed of Closure (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Dynamic Strength (imp:2.50 lvl:2.12) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.38 lvl:2.25) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Originality (imp:2.38 lvl:2.12) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Extent Flexibility (imp:2.38 lvl:2.75) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Response Orientation (imp:2.25 lvl:1.88) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Stamina (imp:2.00 lvl:1.75) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.88 lvl:1.38) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:1.88 lvl:1.62) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:1.75 lvl:1.25) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Spatial Orientation (imp:1.50 lvl:0.75) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Peripheral Vision (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Sound Localization (imp:1.50 lvl:0.75) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
  Night Vision (imp:1.38 lvl:0.50) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.38 lvl:0.62) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:4.56 lvl:5.75) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Getting Information (imp:4.21 lvl:2.39) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:4.02 lvl:3.90) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:3.93 lvl:5.55) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.73 lvl:3.95) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:3.68 lvl:4.18) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:3.66 lvl:3.78) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:3.63 lvl:2.85) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:3.61 lvl:3.31) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:3.48 lvl:4.06) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.47 lvl:3.06) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:3.46 lvl:2.62) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:3.42 lvl:3.32) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:3.29 lvl:2.68) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:3.25 lvl:2.33) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Working with Computers (imp:3.18 lvl:2.61) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Processing Information (imp:3.10 lvl:2.85) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Thinking Creatively (imp:3.07 lvl:2.61) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:3.02 lvl:3.00) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.01 lvl:2.90) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:2.95 lvl:3.56) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:2.74 lvl:2.29) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:2.67 lvl:2.07) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:2.61 lvl:1.97) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:2.45 lvl:2.03) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:2.42 lvl:2.08) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:2.38 lvl:2.49) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:2.38 lvl:1.93) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:2.36 lvl:1.78) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:2.34 lvl:1.79) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:2.32 lvl:1.83) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:2.31 lvl:1.87) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:2.30 lvl:2.15) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.18 lvl:1.76) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:2.17 lvl:1.68) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:2.14 lvl:2.32) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:2.04 lvl:1.44) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.01 lvl:1.70) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:1.92 lvl:1.44) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:1.54) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:1.53) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Dependability (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Attention to Detail (imp:2.67) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Dependability (imp:2.14) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Cautiousness (imp:2.03) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Attention to Detail (imp:2.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Achievement Orientation (imp:1.12) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Perseverance (imp:1.02) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Cautiousness (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Stress Tolerance (imp:0.86) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Integrity (imp:0.72) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Self-Control (imp:0.59) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Self-Confidence (imp:0.44) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:0.39) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Adaptability (imp:0.30) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Initiative (imp:0.11) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Sincerity (imp:0.03) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Integrity () — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Optimism (imp:-0.10) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Innovation (imp:-0.18) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Empathy (imp:-0.22) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Social Orientation (imp:-0.32) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Humility (imp:-0.34) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Leadership Orientation (imp:-0.41) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:-0.59) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Operations Monitoring (imp:3.88 lvl:3.62) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Operation and Control (imp:3.75 lvl:3.62) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:3.50 lvl:3.25) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:3.38 lvl:3.38) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Repairing (imp:3.38 lvl:3.00) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
  Equipment Selection (imp:3.00 lvl:2.38) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Troubleshooting (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Time Management (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:2.50 lvl:2.12) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Instructing (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Systems Analysis (imp:2.50 lvl:2.25) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Coordination (imp:2.38 lvl:2.12) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.38 lvl:1.88) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Persuasion (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Negotiation (imp:2.25 lvl:2.00) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Systems Evaluation (imp:2.25 lvl:2.25) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Service Orientation (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Management of Material Resources (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:2.00 lvl:1.38) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Operations Analysis (imp:1.88 lvl:1.38) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Technology Design (imp:1.88 lvl:1.12) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Programming (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
  Installation (imp:1.12 lvl:0.25) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.

--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 5,600
  annual_median    : $50,060
  annual_pct10     : $35,350
  annual_pct25     : $40,800
  annual_pct75     : $62,150
  annual_pct90     : $77,170
  annual_mean      : $53,240
  hourly_median    : $24.07

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : Washington ($75,190)
  lowest_state     : Colorado ($33,970)
  dispersion_ratio : 2.213x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (35 total) ---
  Manufacturing                            emp:    4,230  median: $  52,000
  Other Services (except Public Administration) emp:      810  median: $  46,010
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:      260  median: $  39,530
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:      160  median: $  35,360
  Retail Trade                             emp:       60  median: $  41,970
  Construction                             emp:       50  median: $  42,530

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (6 total) ---
  Manufacturing                            emp:    4,230  median: $  52,000
  Other Services (except Public Administration) emp:      810  median: $  46,010
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:      260  median: $  39,530
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:      160  median: $  35,360
  Retail Trade                             emp:       60  median: $  41,970
  Construction                             emp:       50  median: $  42,530

exact_match_status : no_exact_match
matched_title      : N/A
match_score        : 0.0000
wikidata_qid       : N/A
word_count         : 0
wikipedia_url      : N/A
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T23:12:25.175956Z

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: List of tools and equipment (similarity: 0.4062)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_tools_and_equipment
  QID: Q136211809
  Extract: This is a list of tools and equipment such as hand tools, power tools, electrician tools, welding and metal work tools, concrete and masonry equipment, plumbing tools, painting tools, measuring tools, heavy equipment, surveying tools, garden tools, and more.

  Title: Knife sharpening (similarity: 0.3774)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knife_sharpening
  QID: Q5671453
  Extract: Knife sharpening is the process of making a knife or similar tool sharp by grinding against a hard, rough surface, typically a stone, or a flexible surface with hard particles, such as sandpaper. Additionally, a leather razor strop, or strop, is often used to straighten and polish an edge.
The trade

  Title: Buck Knives (similarity: 0.1667)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buck_Knives
  QID: Q4982885
  Extract: Buck Knives is an American knife brand and manufacturer founded in San Diego, California in 1947 as H.H. Buck and Son, and now located in Post Falls, Idaho. Company founder and family patriarch Hoyt Buck made his first knife in 1902, but did not begin making them commercially until 1947. Since then,

  Title: List of How It's Made episodes (similarity: 0.2985)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_How_It's_Made_episodes
  QID: Q401305
  Extract: How It's Made is a documentary television series that premiered on January 6, 2001, on the Discovery Channel in Canada and Science in the United States. The program is produced in the Canadian province of Quebec by Productions MAJ, Inc. and Productions MAJ 2. In the United Kingdom, it is broadcast o

  Title: Cutlery of Thiers (similarity: 0.2593)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutlery_of_Thiers
  QID: Q55596541
  Extract: The cutlery of Thiers, a specialized tradition in the Thiers region of the Puy-de-Dôme department, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France, is supported by the presence of the Durolle River and local forests.

model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong O*NET data foundation with detailed work activities, abilities, and wage information from BLS OEWS May 2025. Clear occupational boundaries and related roles provide robust context for analysis.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-04T01:39:29.807807+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,956
tokens_output        : 4,523
cost_usd             : $0.048763
wikipedia_used       : False
wikipedia_title      : None
wikipedia_note       : No direct Wikipedia match exists for this occupation, though knife sharpening and tools/equipment articles provide related context about precision grinding and sharpening processes.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners perform precision smoothing, sharpening, polishing, and grinding operations on metal objects using specialized machinery and hand tools. They inspect workpieces to ensure surfaces and dimensions meet exact specifications, requiring high levels of manual dexterity and attention to detail. These skilled technicians maintain cutting tools, dies, and metal parts to precise tolerances in manufacturing environments.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
Tool grinders begin their day by studying blueprints and work orders to determine grinding procedures and machine setups required for each job. They select and mount appropriate grinding wheels on machines according to specifications, then set up and operate grinding or polishing machines to process metal workpieces such as dies, parts, and cutting tools. Throughout the day, they monitor machine operations closely, making adjustments as necessary and stopping machines when problems occur. They inspect, feel, and measure workpieces using micrometers and gauges to ensure surfaces and dimensions meet exact specifications. Between jobs, they perform basic maintenance tasks such as cleaning and lubricating machine parts, and they file or finish surfaces of workpieces using prescribed hand tools when precision hand work is required.

WHO THRIVES:
Individuals who excel in this role possess exceptional arm-hand steadiness and finger dexterity, as the work demands precise manual control when operating grinding equipment and handling delicate workpieces. They have strong problem sensitivity abilities, allowing them to detect when something is wrong or likely to go wrong with equipment or workpieces. Successful tool grinders are naturally cautious and detail-oriented, with the patience to perform repetitive precision tasks while maintaining consistent quality standards. They are dependable workers who take pride in craftsmanship and can visualize how their grinding operations will affect the final product dimensions and surface finish.

CAREER ENTRY:
Most tool grinders enter the field with a high school diploma (45% of workers) or post-secondary certificate in machining or precision manufacturing (35.7% of workers), reflecting the Job Zone 2 classification requiring some preparation. Many begin as apprentices or entry-level machine operators, learning grinding techniques through on-the-job training under experienced craftspeople. Technical training programs in machining, manufacturing technology, or precision toolmaking provide valuable foundational knowledge in blueprint reading, measurement techniques, and machine operation.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Tool grinders can advance to become tool and die makers, machine tool setters for more complex equipment, or quality control inspectors specializing in precision measurement. With additional training, they may progress to CNC grinding technician roles or supervisory positions overseeing grinding operations. Some experienced grinders start their own tool sharpening services or specialize in maintaining cutting tools for specific industries like aerospace or medical device manufacturing.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
According to BLS OEWS May 2025 data, tool grinders earn a median annual wage of $50,060, with entry-level positions starting around $35,350 and experienced workers earning up to $77,170. The occupation employs 5,600 workers nationally, with 75.5% concentrated in manufacturing industries. Geographic wage variation is significant, with Washington state offering the highest wages at $75,190 compared to Colorado's $33,970, reflecting regional differences in manufacturing activity and cost of living. Employment is concentrated in states with strong manufacturing bases, particularly in automotive, aerospace, and precision tooling sectors.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Tool grinding faces moderate automation pressure as CNC grinding machines become more sophisticated and capable of handling routine operations. However, the high importance of manual dexterity, visual inspection, and adaptive problem-solving in this role provides some protection from full automation. Complex setups, custom grinding operations, and quality inspection tasks requiring human judgment will likely remain essential, though workers may need to adapt to operating more automated grinding systems.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [task_similarity] Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4033.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles involve operating grinding equipment and inspecting metal workpieces to specifications with shared work activities in controlling machines and processes.
    data: Controlling Machines and Processes (4.6 importance)
    data: Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (4.0 importance)
  [skill_overlap] Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand (51-9022.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles require arm-hand steadiness, manual dexterity, and finger dexterity for precision grinding and polishing operations.
    data: Arm-Hand Steadiness (4.0 importance)
    data: Manual Dexterity (3.9 importance)
    data: Finger Dexterity (3.9 importance)
  [career_pathway] Tool and Die Makers (51-4111.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Tool grinders often advance to tool and die maker roles, sharing mechanical knowledge and precision measurement skills.
    data: Mechanical knowledge (3.6 importance)
    data: Quality Control Analysis transferable skill (3.5 importance)
  [riasec_cluster] Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4034.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both occupations share realistic orientation with mechanical work and conventional aspects of following precise specifications.
    data: RIASEC Realistic (7.00)
    data: RIASEC Conventional (4.15)
    data: Job Zone 2 classification
  [knowledge_overlap] Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic (51-4081.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both roles require mechanical knowledge and production processing expertise for operating precision manufacturing equipment.
    data: Mechanical knowledge (3.6 importance)
    data: Production and Processing knowledge (2.9 importance)
    data: Mathematics knowledge (3.5 importance)

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['tool grinder', 'filer', 'sharpener', 'grinding technician', 'cutter grinder', 'die grinder', 'metal grinding', 'precision grinding']
  exclude_keywords : ['machinist', 'welder', 'assembler', 'operator only', 'maintenance']
  title_patterns   : ['*grinder*', '*sharpener*', '*filer*', 'grinding technician', 'CNC grinding*']
  common_variations: ['tool grinder', 'cutter grinder', 'die grinder', 'grinding technician', 'CNC grinding technician', 'cutting tool sharpener', 'die sharpener', 'precision grinder']

total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['equipment', 'tendency', 'others', 'tools', 'workpieces', 'grinding', 'production', 'machines', 'hand', 'principles', 'control', 'objects', 'specifications', 'machine', 'operations', 'materials', 'techniques', 'includes', 'products', 'procedures']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
equipment                  49  0.01728  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:47%  dwas:37%  inference:8%
tendency                   42  0.01482  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
others                     38  0.01340  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
tools                      31  0.01094  wikipedia            wikipedia:32%  onet_tasks:19%  inference:19%
workpieces                 25  0.00882  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:40%  dwas:36%  inference:24%
grinding                   24  0.00847  inference            inference:58%  onet_tasks:29%  dwas:8%
production                 17  0.00600  dwas                 dwas:53%  onet_dimensions:47%
machines                   16  0.00564  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:44%  onet_tasks:31%  inference:25%
hand                       16  0.00564  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:44%  inference:25%  onet_tasks:19%
principles                 16  0.00564  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
control                    14  0.00494  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:86%  inference:14%
objects                    14  0.00494  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:86%  dwas:7%  inference:7%
specifications             13  0.00459  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:31%  dwas:31%  inference:23%
machine                    13  0.00459  inference            inference:46%  onet_tasks:31%  onet_dimensions:15%
operations                 13  0.00459  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:46%  inference:46%  onet_tasks:8%
materials                  12  0.00423  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:83%  dwas:17%
techniques                 12  0.00423  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:83%  inference:17%
includes                   12  0.00423  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
products                   12  0.00423  dwas                 dwas:50%  onet_dimensions:42%  wikipedia:8%
procedures                 11  0.00388  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:73%  onet_tasks:18%  inference:9%
problems                   11  0.00388  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:82%  onet_tasks:9%  inference:9%
ideas                      11  0.00388  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
tool                       11  0.00388  inference            inference:91%  wikipedia:9%
precision                  10  0.00353  inference            inference:80%  onet_dimensions:20%
body                       10  0.00353  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
problem                     9  0.00317  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:78%  inference:22%
quality                     9  0.00317  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:67%  inference:33%
standards                   9  0.00317  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  inference:11%
resources                   9  0.00317  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
quickly                     9  0.00317  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
activities                  9  0.00317  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
orientation                 9  0.00317  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
metal                       8  0.00282  inference            inference:38%  onet_tasks:25%  dwas:25%
operate                     8  0.00282  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:38%  dwas:38%  onet_tasks:12%
monitoring                  8  0.00282  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
needs                       8  0.00282  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
rules                       8  0.00282  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
human                       8  0.00282  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:88%  inference:12%
events                      8  0.00282  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
actions                     8  0.00282  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%