Torchora
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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Knife Technician

💰 $45,000 - $65,000

Skilled TradesManufacturingTechnical ServicesHospitality

🎯 Role Definition

We are actively searching for a meticulous and highly skilled Knife Technician to join our dynamic team. In this essential role, you will be the expert responsible for the comprehensive maintenance, sharpening, and repair of a wide range of industrial, commercial, or culinary knives and blades. Your craftsmanship will directly impact our operational success, ensuring that all cutting tools meet stringent standards for sharpness, safety, and performance. The ideal candidate is a hands-on professional with a deep understanding of blade geometry, materials, and precision sharpening techniques, dedicated to upholding the highest levels of quality and safety in a fast-paced environment.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Machine Operator
  • Kitchen Porter / Line Cook with a passion for cutlery
  • Mechanical Apprentice
  • Hobbyist Blade Smith or Sharpener

Advancement To:

  • Lead Technician / Shop Foreman
  • Maintenance Supervisor
  • Quality Control Manager
  • Technical Trainer or Specialist

Lateral Moves:

  • Tool and Die Maker
  • Equipment Maintenance Technician
  • Machinist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform precision sharpening on a variety of knives and cutting blades using manual and automated equipment, including whetstones, belt grinders, and honing machines.
  • Execute expert-level repairs on damaged blades, including re-tipping, chip removal, and re-profiling to restore full functionality.
  • Meticulously inspect all incoming and outgoing knives and blades for defects, wear, and compliance with sharpness and safety standards.
  • Operate, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance on all sharpening and grinding machinery to ensure consistent, high-quality results.
  • Maintain and manage a comprehensive inventory of knives, replacement blades, and sharpening supplies, placing orders as necessary.
  • Strictly adhere to all company and industry safety protocols, including the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, performing minor repairs to minimize downtime and maintain workflow.
  • Set up and adjust grinding machinery according to specific blade types, materials, and required edge specifications.
  • Consistently perform quality control checks on finished edges, testing for sharpness, durability, and correct angle.
  • Document all maintenance, sharpening, and repair activities accurately in a maintenance log or computerized system.
  • Manage and execute a sharpening schedule to support the needs of production, culinary, or service departments with minimal disruption.
  • Advise and educate end-users on proper knife handling, storage, and daily maintenance practices to extend blade life.
  • Disassemble, clean, repair, and reassemble complex cutting assemblies used in industrial machinery.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment to prevent accidents and enhance efficiency.
  • Evaluate and test new sharpening techniques, abrasive materials, and equipment to drive continuous improvement in the sharpening process.
  • Polish and deburr sharpened blades to produce a refined, high-performance cutting edge.
  • Analyze blade wear patterns to identify potential issues with cutting equipment or user technique and provide feedback.
  • Coordinate with department managers or chefs to understand cutting performance requirements and tailor sharpening profiles accordingly.
  • Monitor the condition of blade assets, recommending replacement for tools that are beyond effective repair.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all sharpening and blade maintenance tasks.
  • Test edge retention and cutting performance using standardized media and methodologies to validate sharpening quality.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist with general workshop maintenance, organization, and cleaning tasks.
  • Contribute to the training and mentoring of apprentices or new team members on basic sharpening and safety protocols.
  • Support inventory management for the broader maintenance department as needed.
  • Participate in team meetings to discuss workflow, challenges, and continuous improvement opportunities.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Expert proficiency in multiple sharpening techniques, including freehand sharpening on whetstones and guided systems.
  • Deep knowledge of blade geometry, metallurgy, and the properties of various steels (e.g., carbon, stainless, powdered).
  • Skilled operation of industrial sharpening equipment such as belt grinders, paper wheels, and automated sharpeners.
  • Proven ability to perform intricate blade repairs, including reshaping broken tips and grinding out chips without compromising the blade.
  • Competency in using precision measurement tools like digital calipers, protractors, and angle guides to ensure accuracy.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude for maintaining, troubleshooting, and performing minor repairs on sharpening equipment.
  • Knowledge of workplace safety standards (OSHA) and a consistent record of safe equipment operation.
  • Skill in buffing, deburring, and stropping to achieve a mirror-polish, razor-sharp edge.
  • Ability to interpret technical specifications or work orders to meet precise sharpening requirements.
  • Experience managing an inventory of tools and consumable supplies.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to precision craftsmanship.
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination and superior manual dexterity.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities to diagnose and resolve issues with blades and equipment.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
  • Patient and focused, with the ability to perform repetitive tasks to a high standard.
  • Clear communication skills for collaborating with team members and advising end-users.
  • A strong work ethic and a high degree of reliability and accountability.
  • Unwavering commitment to quality and safety in all aspects of work.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).

Preferred Education:

  • Certificate from a vocational or technical school in a relevant trade.
  • Completion of a formal apprenticeship in machining, tool grinding, or a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Machining Technology
  • Metalworking / Fabrication
  • Culinary Arts (with a focus on cutlery)

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 2-5 years of demonstrated, hands-on experience in a professional sharpening, blade maintenance, or tool grinding role.

Preferred:

  • Prior experience in a high-volume environment such as food processing, industrial manufacturing, a professional sharpening service, or a large-scale culinary operation.
  • Verifiable portfolio or practical demonstration of sharpening and repair skills may be requested.
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