Greaser
A greaser is a person who lubricates industrial machinery so that it runs without seizing, and who carries out basic maintenance work on it.
Check yourself in a minute: greaser
Rate 5 of the 10 essential skills of this occupation (European ESCO data). No account needed.
operate grease gun
troubleshoot
wear appropriate protective gear
conduct routine machinery checks
secure working area
About greaser
The greaser operates a grease gun and the other tools that deliver grease and oil: matching the lubricant to the bearing point, applying the quantity the instructions set, at the intervals the schedule sets, because too little grease causes seizure and too much pushes a seal out.
The greaser also carries out routine checks: listening to how bearings run, checking the temperature of bearing points, clearances, belt tension and the tightness of systems, and reporting faults or correcting them where that falls within the role. Industrial tools are known and problems solved on the spot.
The work happens around machines in motion, so the greaser secures the work zone, handles machinery safely and knows which points may only be greased at standstill. Oil spills, which are a slipping hazard and can signal a fault, are cleaned up. Formal requirements are set by the employer, with station training added for work on specific equipment.
Key Work Functions
Core areas of responsibility for a greaser.
Machine Lubrication and Maintenance
- Apply appropriate lubricants to machine bearings, joints, gears, and moving parts using grease guns and oilers
- Follow established maintenance schedules and lubrication intervals specific to each piece of equipment
- Select correct lubricant types based on equipment specifications, temperature conditions, and operational demands
- Record maintenance activities and lubricant usage in maintenance logs and equipment tracking systems
Routine Equipment Inspection
- Conduct daily and weekly visual inspections of machinery to detect signs of wear, leaks, or damage
- Monitor machine performance for unusual sounds, vibrations, or temperature changes that may indicate problems
- Identify lubrication deficiencies and areas requiring additional maintenance attention
Basic Maintenance and Repair
- Perform basic repairs such as tightening bolts, replacing worn seals, and adjusting machinery alignment
- Clean machine surfaces and remove old lubricants or debris before relubrication
- Assist with equipment shutdowns and startups, ensuring all systems are properly lubricated and operational
Safety and Compliance Management
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment including safety glasses, gloves, and protective clothing
- Follow lockout/tagout procedures to ensure machinery is properly shut down before maintenance work
- Report safety hazards, spills, and equipment issues to supervisors and maintain a clean work area
European Skills Framework
Skills and knowledge areas required for this occupation based on European classification.
Essential (10)
Optional (9) — show
Related Occupations
Occupations that need many of the same essential skills, so the move between them is shortest.
Frequently asked questions
What does a greaser do?
Greasers make sure industrial machines are properly lubricated to maintain operations. They use grease guns to oil machines. Greasers also perform basic maintenance and repair duties.
What skills does a greaser need?
A greaser needs 10 essential skills, including industrial tools, operate grease gun, troubleshoot, wear appropriate protective gear, conduct routine machinery checks.
Will AI replace greaser jobs?
The AI disruption score for greaser is 29/100 (low risk). Skills most exposed to automation: order supplies, read standard blueprints, technical drawings. Most resilient: lubricate rolling stock wheels, lubricate engines, secure working area.
AI Replacement Risk
Quick Facts
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