Finishing Technician
SUMMARY: The Finishing/Polishing Technician is responsible for the final cleaning, polishing, and preparation of superabrasive products prior to shipment. This role ensures that all products meet strict dimensional, surface finish, and quality requirements. Responsibilities include visual inspection, chemical cleaning, polishing using speed lathes and other equipment, and maintaining accurate production records. The technician will also support equipment upkeep, follow safety and quality standards, and contribute to continuous improvement efforts.
HOURS: 1st shift hours are Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Read, interpret, and follow work orders, routers, and engineering drawings.
Perform final finishing operations including polishing, buffing, sanding, and surface conditioning.
Operate manual lathes, mills, belt sanders, speed lathes, pedestal grinders, buffing wheels, sandblasters, and various grinding machines.
Select proper work holding, abrasives, and tooling to achieve optimal productivity and finish quality.
Dress, condition, and finish electroplated and bonded superabrasive products to meet customer tolerances and surface finish specifications.
Perform product balancing and speed testing prior to shipment.
Conduct visual inspections to identify defects, inconsistencies, or nonconformities.
Perform chemical cleaning and surface preparation as required.
Maintain equipment, tooling, and work areas in clean and safe condition.
Follow all safety procedures, including proper use of PPE and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Accurately record time, materials, and production data in manufacturing systems.
Participate in continuous improvement activities and suggest process enhancements.
Perform other duties as assigned.
PREFERRED SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE:
Ability to safely operate required finishing and polishing equipment.
Ability to read and understand work instructions, paperwork, and engineering drawings.
High school diploma or GED.
Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of machining or finishing processes.
Good hand–eye coordination and manual dexterity.
3+ years of related experience in finishing, polishing, machining, or manufacturing.
Familiarity with superabrasive products, electroplated tools, or precision grinding (preferred but not required).
Strong interpersonal communication skills.
Good computer skills, including Excel, Word, and ERP systems.
Excellent attention to detail and sound judgment.
Ability to troubleshoot minor equipment issues and identify process improvements.
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES:
Quality-focused mindset with pride in craftsmanship.
Dependable, punctual, and able to work independently or as part of a team.
Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to learn.
Positive attitude and commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
Adaptable to changing priorities and production needs.
BENEFITS:
CDT offers a competitive benefits package. Click here for details.
Continental Diamond Tool was established in 1973, in New Haven, Indiana. We are a super abrasive specialist that provides custom cutting, polishing and grinding tools to multiple industries. It is our policy to fully satisfy our customers’ needs and expectations on an on-going basis.
JOB GRADE: 1 (NON-EXEMPT)
This Position Is No Longer Available
We are not currently hiring for this role. However, if you're still interested in joining our team, you can complete our general application here.
Unfortunately, this position has already been filled. If you'd like to be considered for a similar role at CDT, click apply now.

