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Water Jet Cutting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CNC laser, plasma cutter, water jet, router, mill, press brakes. * Familiarity with waterjet programming softwares, (Flow OR OMAX/Protomax, preferred). * Familiarity with ProtoTrak (or other ...

CNC laser, plasma cutter, water jet, router, mill, press brakes. * Familiarity with waterjet programming softwares, (Flow OR OMAX/Protomax, preferred). * Familiarity with ProtoTrak (or other ...

CNC laser, plasma cutter, water jet, router, mill, press brakes. * Familiarity with waterjet programming softwares, (Flow OR OMAX/Protomax, preferred). * Familiarity with ProtoTrak (or other ...

CNC laser, plasma cutter, water jet, router, mill, press brakes. * Familiarity with waterjet programming softwares, (Flow OR OMAX/Protomax, preferred). * Familiarity with ProtoTrak (or other ...

We build tooling using modern processes like CNC rule bending, water-jet cutting, and lasers-while still valuing the craftsmanship that separates "good" dies from great ones. If you're a die maker ...

Die Maker

Attleboro Falls, MA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

We build tooling using modern processes like CNC rule bending, water-jet cutting, and lasers-while still valuing the craftsmanship that separates "good" dies from great ones.If you're a die maker who ...

Water Jet Operator

Macomb, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

... cutting, brazing, machining, process automation, and field repair. The Company leverages ... Set up, fixture, clamp and operate high pressure abrasive water jet machine to cut details and ...

Water Jet Operator

Fort Loramie, OH · On-site

$18.25 - $21.75/hr

We're hiring a Waterjet Operator to run cutting equipment and produce high-quality foam and plastic ... As we continue to grow, we are seeking a skilled Water Jet operator to join our team and contribute ...

Die Maker

Attleboro Falls, MA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

We build tooling using modern processes like CNC rule bending, water-jet cutting, and lasers-while still valuing the craftsmanship that separates "good" dies from great ones. If you're a die maker ...

Water Jet Operator

Macomb, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

... cutting, brazing, machining, process automation, and field repair. The Company leverages ... Set up, fixture, clamp and operate high pressure abrasive water jet machine to cut details and ...

Water Jet Operator

Buford, GA · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

... cutting technology to provide accurate and consistent parts in a timely and cost effective manner ... Responsible for water jet machine operations associated with quantity production of identical units.

Showing results 21-40

Water Jet Cutting information

See salary details

$13

$23

$50

How much do water jet cutting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for water jet cutting in the United States is $23.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water jet cutting operator?

To thrive as a Water Jet Cutting Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, precision measurement skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by vocational training. Familiarity with CNC programming, CAD software, and the operation of water jet cutting machines is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong communication skills help operators maintain quality and adapt to changing project needs. These skills and qualities ensure accurate cuts, equipment safety, and efficient workflow in manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Water Jet Cutting vs Plasma Cutting?

AspectWater Jet CuttingPlasma Cutting
Credentials/CertificationsOperator certifications often requiredOperator certifications often required
Work EnvironmentIndoor, clean, precise cuttingIndoor, industrial, high-temperature environment
Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, artMetal fabrication, construction, automotive
Cutting MaterialMetals, stone, glass, compositesPrimarily metals

Water Jet Cutting and Plasma Cutting are both popular methods for cutting metals and other materials. Water Jet Cutting uses high-pressure water mixed with abrasives for precise, clean cuts on a variety of materials, including delicate or heat-sensitive ones. Plasma Cutting employs ionized gas to cut through metals quickly and efficiently, especially thicker steel and aluminum. The choice depends on material type, thickness, and desired precision.

What is water jet cutting?

Water jet cutting is a fabrication process that uses a high-pressure stream of water, often mixed with abrasive particles, to cut through materials such as metal, stone, glass, and composites. This method is valued for its ability to produce precise cuts without generating heat, which helps prevent material distortion or warping. Water jet cutting is commonly used in industries like aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing for both prototyping and production work. The process can cut complex shapes and is environmentally friendly as it does not produce hazardous gases or waste.

What are some common challenges faced by water jet cutting operators and how can they be addressed?

Water Jet Cutting operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise cuts on various materials, managing equipment wear, and ensuring safety standards are met. To address these, operators should regularly calibrate and maintain the cutting equipment, stay updated on the latest safety protocols, and continually improve their understanding of different material properties. Additionally, collaborating with engineers and quality control teams can help troubleshoot issues quickly and maintain high production standards.
More about Water Jet Cutting jobs
What states have the most Water Jet Cutting jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Jet Cutting jobs include:
Infographic showing various Water Jet Cutting job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,959 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Sr. Water Jet Technician

Joby Aviation

Santa Cruz, CA

$56 - $67/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Imagine a piloted air taxi that takes off vertically, then quietly carries you and your fellow passengers over the congested city streets below, enabling you to spend more time with the people and places that matter most. At Joby, we've been working to make that dream a reality since 2009 and we're now in the final stages of certifying our aircraft with the FAA. With plans to launch our aircraft in the US and Dubai, we're now scaling manufacturing and preparing for the launch of our commercial service.


Joby Aviation is seeking an experienced Water Jet Technician to cut parts for fixtures, jigs, test articles, and flight components in collaboration with our Fabrication and Machine Shop teams. An ideal candidate is passionate, self-motivated, adaptable, possesses complimentary machining experience who is comfortable working closely with our internal engineering and planning teams. Due to our rapid prototype environment, a flexible, technical and hands-on attitude is important for thinking through various possible approaches to complete jobs on time. We aim to attract, motivate, develop and retain individuals that possess the skills and leadership necessary to grow our team and bring our EVTOL aircraft to new heights.


  • Setup, program, and operate waterjets (Flow and Omax) safely and efficiently.
  • Able to diagnose and maintain water jets from daily and weekly basic items to pump rebuilds.
  • Work with a wide variety of raw materials and achieve high quality precision parts.
  • Handle raw materials from rough stock to post processed finished parts.
  • Ability to shift priorities and juggle multiple projects sidelining some to expedite others.
  • Strong ability to communicate with team members, management and engineers in a rapid prototyping environment.
  • Willing to juggle multiple projects often sidelining some projects to expedite others.
  • Communicate job progress through a variety of channels, verbally, Jira (job tickets), Slack, and other process tracking platforms.
  • Perform a variety of manual post machining operations (Deburring, tapping, burnishing, tumblers, knee mill, lathe, etc).
  • Perform a variety of basic platework CNC post machining operations including Prototrak and Haas 3 axis.
  • Demonstrate ability to select appropriate tooling and fixturing for projects based on available tooling library, part material, geometry, features, and tolerances.
  • Collaborate with team members to improve standardized processes.
  • Use of inspection equipment such as calipers and micrometers.
  • Lift and maneuver heavy plate materials safely utilizing a forklift and other means of handling.
  • Interpret GD&T, 3D CAD software, design documents and verbal design instructions to meet engineering requirements.
  • Follows inventory management requirements.
  • Perform basic preventive maintenance servicing and repairs on equipment.
  • Keep the work area clean, organize and label raw material stock, and keep outgoing parts in order.

  • HS Diploma or GED equivalent.
  • 5+ Years experience in relevant work as a Machinist or Water Jet Technician.
  • Ability to safely operate, program and set up water jets.
  • Ability to safely operate manual knee mills and lathes with CNC controls.
  • Ability to safely operate handheld equipment, drill presses, saws, grinders, sheet metal fabrication equipment.
  • Experience in post processing platework with hand tools and other equipment.
  • Follows all Joby safety procedures and standards, including Team Standards.
  • Available to work overtime and weekends.
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs unaided.
  • Able to interpret GD&T, blueprints, technical drawings, specifications and follow written instructions.

  • Forklift experience.
  • 10+ years of working experience in relevant industry.
  • Prior experience with the following: CNC laser, plasma cutter, water jet, router, mill, press brakes.
  • Familiarity with waterjet programming softwares, (Flow OR OMAX/Protomax, preferred).
  • Familiarity with ProtoTrak (or other conversational programming) knee mills.
  • Familiarity with Haas 3 axis (2004 Controller).
  • Basic understanding of G code editing.
  • Prior Fabrication experience.
  • Familiarity with 5S organization and standards.
  • Familiarity with CAD/CAM software (Fusion360, HSM Works, Solidworks, Catia).
  • Familiarity with sheet metal software (SigmaBend preferred).
  • Familiarity with CNC Fiber laser cutters.

The target base pay for this position is $56-$67/hour. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.


Joby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.