Machine Operator – 3rd Shift; Grinding Machines

At a Glance

Company: Kennametal
Location: La Vergne, TN
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: DOE
Shift: 3rd Shift | Sunday–Thursday | 11:00 PM – 7:00 AM
Shift Differential: Additional $3.00/hour on top of base pay
Overtime: As Needed
Experience Level: 1+ Years Experience
Published: June 24, 2026

Kennametal's manufacturing operations depend on consistent, high-quality production to support customers across aerospace, transportation, energy, medical, and industrial markets. This role helps ensure production goals are met by operating precision grinding equipment and maintaining the quality standards that have made Kennametal a manufacturing leader for more than 80 years.

This is an excellent opportunity for manufacturing professionals looking to build experience in precision grinding and production machining within a clean, safety-focused environment.

In this role, you will:

• Operate multiple Stahli and Blanchard grinding machines
• Produce components according to blueprint specifications and production standards
• Install, change, and dress grinding wheels
• Gauge inserts and components to verify dimensional accuracy
• Perform visual inspections using scopes and other inspection equipment
• Monitor machine performance and maintain production quality standards
• Complete basic to moderately complex machine setups
• Troubleshoot routine production and machine issues
• Follow production schedules and meet daily output goals
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area
• Communicate quality, safety, and production concerns across shifts

You’ll work with equipment such as:

Machines

• Stahli Grinding Machines
• Blanchard Grinding Machines
• Precision Grinding Equipment

Production Responsibilities

• Machine Setup
• Grinding Wheel Changes
• Wheel Dressing
• Process Monitoring
• Basic Troubleshooting

Inspection Equipment

• Gauging Equipment
• Inspection Scopes
• Precision Measurement Tools

Depending on production requirements, materials may include:

• Carbide Components
• Precision Inserts
• Industrial Tooling Products
• Engineered Materials

• High School Diploma or GED
• 1+ years of manufacturing or machine operation experience
• Ability to operate production equipment safely and efficiently
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Strong attention to detail
• Reliable attendance and work habits
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Previous grinding machine experience
• Experience operating Stahli or Blanchard grinding equipment
• Experience changing and dressing grinding wheels
• Machine setup experience
• Manufacturing or production environment experience
• Familiarity with blueprint interpretation and quality inspection processes

Competitive Compensation – DOE

Additional Pay

• $3.00/hour 3rd Shift Differential

Kennametal offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement savings programs
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid leave programs
  
  Employee recognition programs
• Career development opportunities
• Wellness resources and support programs

3rd Shift

• Sunday–Thursday
• 11:00 PM – 7:00 AM

Overtime

• Available as business needs require

• Climate-controlled manufacturing facility
• Dust collection systems throughout production areas
• Safety-focused workplace
• Safety glasses and safety shoes required
• Gloves and additional PPE provided as needed

• Standing for most of the shift
• Frequent walking, reaching, and bending
• Ability to lift materials weighing up to 33 pounds
• Ability to safely work around manufacturing equipment