Cutter Grader ULT

Patterson-UTI; Town of Texas (WI); On-site; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Patterson-UTI seeks a PDC Cutter Grader in Wisconsin Town of Texas to inspect and grade polycrystalline diamond cutters. The role requires precision, adherence to procedures, and clear communication with production and engineering teams.

You will use microscopes and blasting tools, document results, and ensure traceability while maintaining safety and shop discipline on second shift. Prior experience in manufacturing or quality inspection is a plus.

Qualifications

• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and quality standards.
• Experience in manufacturing or supply chain is a plus.
• Willingness to operate inspection and blasting tools safely.
• Effective communication across production and engineering teams.

Responsibilities

• Inspect and classify PDC cutters using defined grading standards.
• Maintain knowledge of inspection criteria and work instructions.
• Operate microscopes, eye loops, and flashlights to detect flaws.
• Use sandblasting equipment to prepare cutters for inspection.
• Document results and ensure traceability of grades.
• Capture images with shop imaging systems as needed.
• Communicate findings to production and quality teams.
• Follow safety policies and keep a clean work area.
• Perform related duties as assigned by supervision.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Communication

Teamwork

Quality inspection

Attention to detail

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Microscopes

Eye loops

Flashlights

Sandblasting equipment

Imaging systems

Job description

Brief Description:

The PDC Cutter Grader is responsible for the detailed inspection and classification of polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) cutters to ensure adherence to Ulterra’s quality standards. This role requires a strong attention to detail, precision, and the ability to follow standardized inspection procedures. The Cutter Grader plays a vital role in supporting manufacturing quality and must be able to communicate clearly with production staff and engineers.

This is a 2nd shift role.

Detailed Description:

• Perform inspections of blemished and/or damaged PDC cutters using defined grading standards.

• Maintain a strong and thorough understanding of the inspection criteria and work instructions.

• Use specialized inspection tools such as microscopes, eye loops, and flashlights to identify flaws or inconsistencies.

• Operate sandblasting/media-blasting equipment to clean cutters for inspection readiness.

• Accurately document inspection results, maintain grading consistency, and ensure traceability.

• Use shop imaging systems to capture photographs of bits and cutters as required.

• Communicate inspection findings to production, engineering, and quality teams to support decision-making and process improvements.

• Follow all safety policies and procedures while maintaining a clean and organized work environment.

• Perform other related duties as assigned by supervision or quality management.

Job Requirements:

• High attention to detail and organizational skills are essential.

• Strong communication skills and the ability to interact with a wide range of departments.

• Ability to work in a team-based manufacturing environment.

• Experience working in or supporting supply chain operations is an asset.

• Must be able to follow detailed instructions and consistently apply quality standards.

• Ability to operate inspection tools and sandblasting equipment safely and effectively

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in supply chain, quality inspection or materials grading.

• Familiarity with cutter materials or bit manufacturing processes.

Additional Details:

The PDC Cutter Grader must work with an emphasis on safety for themselves and others including coworkers and third parties. The typical work environment will be in the shop or field which will require exposure to outdoor weather conditions, loud noise, working near moving mechanical parts, electrical energy, construction equipment, vibration, fumes, chemicals, and airborne particles.

Our People, Our Service, and Our Technology

Ulterra is the #1 PDC drill bit partner in North America. Operating worldwide, we deliver superior drilling technology to companies producing the energy that powers our lives. We constantly push the boundaries of known technology to come up with new ways to improve drilling performance with higher rates of penetration (ROP) and unique designs for challenging conditions, while providing outstanding support from dedicated people.

Patterson-UTI is committed to a workplace free from discrimination and harassment, offering equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of personal characteristics protected by law. Employees are encouraged to report any concerns through multiple channels.