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Cnc Water Jet Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Princeton, MN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... in CNC metal spinning, robotic welding, automated machining, assembly, powder coating, e-coating ... axis water jet cutting and provide our customers with vertically integrated solutions. Our core ...

E-Coat Operator

Princeton, MN · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

... in CNC metal spinning, robotic welding, automated machining, assembly, powder coating, e-coating ... axis water jet cutting and provide our customers with vertically integrated solutions. Our core ...

Jet Vac Operator

Lake Elmo, MN · On-site

$26 - $35/hr

Equix Integrity provides services to the Water/Wastewater collection systems industry, to both the ... We have a current opening for a Jet/Vac Operator. Responsibilities: * Locate street manhole from a ...

Equix Integrity provides services to the Water/Wastewater collection systems industry, to both the ... We have a current opening for a Jet/Vac Operator. Responsibilities: * Locate street manhole from a ...

Machinist III

Aitkin, MN · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

... in CNC metal spinning, robotic welding, automated machining, assembly, powder coating, e-coating, and 2-axis and 5-axis water jet cutting and provide our customers with vertically integrated ...

Production Associate

Princeton, MN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... in CNC metal spinning, robotic welding, automated machining, assembly, powder coating, e-coating, and 2-axis and 5-axis water jet cutting and provide our customers with vertically integrated ...

Powder Coat Painter

Princeton, MN · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... in CNC metal spinning, robotic welding, automated machining, assembly, powder coating, e-coating, and 2-axis and 5-axis water jet cutting and provide our customers with vertically integrated ...

Quality Engineer

Princeton, MN · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

... in CNC metal spinning, robotic welding, automated machining, assembly, powder coating, e-coating, and 2-axis and 5-axis water jet cutting and provide our customers with vertically integrated ...

Maintenance Planner

Princeton, MN · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

... in CNC metal spinning, robotic welding, automated machining, assembly, powder coating, e-coating, and 2-axis and 5-axis water jet cutting and provide our customers with vertically integrated ...

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Cnc Water Jet Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do cnc water jet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for cnc water jet operator in Minnesota is $23.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $26.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CNC Water Jet Operator?

A CNC Water Jet Operator is a skilled technician who operates computer numerical control (CNC) water jet cutting machines. These machines use high-pressure streams of water, sometimes mixed with abrasive materials, to precisely cut a wide variety of materials like metal, stone, glass, or plastic. The operator is responsible for reading blueprints, programming the CNC machine, setting up materials, monitoring the cutting process, and ensuring the final product meets quality standards. Safety, attention to detail, and technical skills are crucial for this role. CNC Water Jet Operators are commonly found in manufacturing, fabrication, and metalworking industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CNC Water Jet Operator?

To thrive as a CNC Water Jet Operator, you need a solid understanding of machining principles, blueprint reading, and experience with CNC equipment, often gained through technical training or vocational programs. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, water jet cutting machines, and quality control measuring tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help operators maintain precision and work effectively within a team. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate, high-quality production, machine safety, and efficient workflow in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by CNC Water Jet Operators, and how can they be addressed?

CNC Water Jet Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise cutting tolerances, managing machine maintenance, and working with a variety of materials that may require different settings. Staying attentive to calibration and regularly inspecting the equipment helps prevent errors and downtime. Effective communication with team members, such as programmers and quality control staff, is also essential to ensure project specifications are met and issues are quickly resolved.

What is the difference between Cnc Water Jet Operator vs Cnc Machinist?

AspectCnc Water Jet OperatorCnc Machinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in water jet technologyHigh school diploma, technical training or certification in machining
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or fabrication shops using water jet cutting equipmentMachine shops, manufacturing facilities working with various CNC machines
Industry UsagePrimarily in fabrication, aerospace, and automotive industriesBroader manufacturing sectors including metal, plastic, and aerospace

While both roles involve CNC technology, the Cnc Water Jet Operator specializes in operating water jet cutting machines, focusing on precision cutting of materials like metal and stone. The Cnc Machinist has a broader scope, working with various CNC machines such as mills and lathes. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right role based on skills and industry focus.

What are popular job titles related to Cnc Water Jet Operator jobs in Minnesota?

For Cnc Water Jet Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cnc Water Jet Operator jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Cnc Water Jet Operator jobs in Minnesota are:

Infographic showing various Cnc Water Jet Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,170 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Machine Operator

ELEMET GROUP INC

Princeton, MN • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

The mission of the Machine Operator is to understand and operate machines and equipment at a basic level, such as configuration of equipment, loading and operating machines and robotic arms, and optimizing machine capability.  The Machine Operator contributes to the overall success of the business through ensuring that production flows in a smooth and efficient manner and meets or exceeds the Element Group standard of quality. 

Key Responsibilities

  • General understanding of various machinery and equipment necessary to produce metal components
  • Must follows all safety policies and procedures, including lockout/Tag out
  • Understands and accurately report daily production quantities to meet set number of parts per hour
  • Consistent and accurately takes counts of materials and products
  • Identifies machining problems, reports to lead or supervisor immediately for assistance
  • Performs necessary quality checks on product and completes daily communication
  • Maintains a clean and organized work area and maintain all equipment according to established procedures.
  • Maintains a positive attitude with customers, clients, co-workers, and management
  • Flexibility to work in various departments throughout production floor (machining, spinning, welding, etc.)
  • Accurately check out tools through tool crib inventory system
  • Ability to read, write and save setup sheets for various machines
  • Ability to deburr parts, potentially by hand

Qualifications

  • High School diploma or equivalent preferred
  • 0-6 mos. machining experience required

Skills and Competencies

  • Ability to safely perform work in varying work conditions
  • Working knowledge of machinery with previous experience in manufacturing environment preferred
  • Ability to understand and follow instructions
  • Effective problem-solving skills/detailed oriented/sense of urgency
  • Ability to learn how to read blueprints and use measurement devices such as calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, and bore gauges
  • Read tape measures and perform basic math (fractions, decimals, etc.)
  • Capability to differentiate metals (Aluminum, Stainless Steel, etc.)
  • Ability to be forklift certified
  • Ability to follow hoist safety protocols
  • Self-motivated, takes initiative

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift 40 lbs. on a consistent basis 
  • Ability to stand for up to 10 hours 
  • Excellent hand/eye coordination 
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively use power tools 
  • Good manual dexterity, coordination, and stamina  
  • Consistently wear personal protective equipment 
  • Ability to work in production facility with fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels 

Featured Benefits

  • Medical Insurance with HSA
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident & Critical Illness Insurance
  • 401(k) Contributions
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Profit Sharing
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Volunteer PTO
  • 9 Paid Holidays
  • Paid Uniforms
  • Boot Reimbursement

Job Details

Job Title: Machine Operator

Company: Glenn Metalcraft

Location: Princeton, MN

Shift: 1st

Reports To: Production Supervisor

Direct Reports: No

Pay Type: Hourly

Job Type: Direct

Requisition ID: 58509

The expected base pay range for this position is between $18.00 and $20.00 per hour.  The actual base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including geographical location, education, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. 

Who We Are

Elemet Group provides solutions to solve our customers’ manufacturing and fabrication challenges. Across our four separate locations, we have access to state-of-the-art equipment and highly skilled specialists in CNC metal spinning, robotic welding, automated machining, assembly, powder coating, e-coating, and 2-axis and 5-axis water jet cutting and provide our customers with vertically integrated solutions.

Our core values of Teamwork, Integrity, Driven, Innovation, and Fun guide our daily business decisions, foster a strong sense of community, and reinforce our commitment to a positive workplace culture.

Elemet Group participates in E-Verify, a federal program that checks the employment eligibility of all new hires. 

Elemet Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.