Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 28,550 crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders, and they earn a median of $46,890/year. The range runs from $35K to $66K. Wyoming pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders start around $35K. The gap between that and the median ($47K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $66K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | $76K | 120 |
| Alaska | $67K | 110 |
| Nevada | $64K | 370 |
| Iowa | $60K | 1,970 |
| Minnesota | $58K | 580 |
| West Virginia | $54K | 240 |
| Vermont | $54K | 230 |
| New York | $53K | 1,050 |
| Maine | $53K | 200 |
| Connecticut | $53K | 340 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders make?▼
The median crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders salary in the United States is $46,890 per year ($23/hour). Entry-level positions start around $35,380, while experienced professionals earn up to $65,980.
What education do you need to become a crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders.
What are the highest paying states for crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders?▼
The highest paying states for crushing, grinding, and polishing machine setters, operators, and tenders are Wyoming ($76,350), Alaska ($66,570), Nevada ($63,960), Iowa ($60,210), Minnesota ($58,150). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.