Machine Operator – 3rd Shift (Grinding Machines)

Kennametal; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Retirement savings programs

Employee Assistance Program

Paid leave programs

Career development opportunities

Wellness resources and support programs

Job summary

Kennametal is seeking a qualified manufacturing professional for its facility in La Vergne, TN. The successful candidate will operate various grinding machines, ensuring production quality and efficiency. This role requires at least 1 year of manufacturing experience.

The position is for the 3rd shift, from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM, offering a competitive compensation package, including benefits such as medical coverage, retirement savings, and more.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of manufacturing or machine operation experience.
• Ability to operate production equipment safely and efficiently.
• Reliable attendance and work habits.

Responsibilities

• Operate multiple Stahli and Blanchard grinding machines.
• Monitor machine performance and maintain production quality.
• Troubleshoot routine production and machine issues.

Skills

Machine Operation

Attention to Detail

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Stahli Grinding Machines

Blanchard Grinding Machines

Precision Measurement Tools

Job description

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

Why This Role Exists

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.

The Work You'll Be Doing

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

Machines, Equipment & Inspection Tools

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

Materials You May Work With

Depending on production requirements, materials may include:

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

What We’re Looking For

Required Qualifications

• 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

Preferred Qualifications

• 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

Pay, Benefits & Schedule

Pay

Competitive Compensation – DOE

Additional Pay

• $3.00/hour 3rd Shift Differential

Benefits

Kennametal offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

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

Schedule

3rd Shift

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

Overtime

• Available as business needs require

Work Environment

• 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

Physical Requirements

• 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