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Water Jet Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Atlanta Waterjet

Water Jet Operator

Buford, GA

$14 - $16/hr

Responsible for water jet machine operations associated with quantity production of identical units. * Program and operate a Omax Waterjet with customer's drawings and specifications * Start and stop ...

Atlanta Waterjet

Water Jet Operator

Buford, GA · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

Responsible for water jet machine operations associated with quantity production of identical units. * Program and operate a Omax Waterjet with customer's drawings and specifications * Start and stop ...

Cannonball Recruiting

Water Jet Operator

Mount Joy, PA · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

Water Jet Operator Pay: $24-27/hr. (depending on experience level) + 15% shift differential Shift ... The CNC Machine Operator will be responsible for running the cutting system that can cut up to 10" ...

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Express Employment

Water Jet Operator

Frankfort, IL

$18/hr

Experienced Waterjet Operator needed ASAP in Frankfort, IL paying $18/hr. to start. For more ... Run jobs on water jet and deburr parts * Prepare files from various sources to include CAD files ...

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CUSTOM FOAM PRODUCTS INC

Water Jet Operator

Fort Loramie, OH · On-site

$18.25 - $21.75/hr

As we continue to grow, we are seeking a skilled Water Jet operator to join our team and contribute ... Opportunity to build real machining/operator skills What You'll Do * Set up and operate waterjet ...

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IES Infrastructure

Water Jet Operator

Mount Joy, PA · On-site

Water Jet Operator 1st & 2nd shifts available Earn 15% more by working on 2nd shift Weekly Pay Job ... Set up and operate water cutting machines as per daily specifications. * Maintain a productive ...

Pro Tunnel Parts

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CNC Operator/ Water Jet Operator

Huntertown, IN · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

... machining, or assembly is helpful. · A strong attention to detail and commitment to producing ... What You'll Do · Operate CNC and water jet equipment to support production needs. · Assist with ...

Cannonball Recruiting LLC

CNC Machine Operator

Cocoa, FL

$24 - $26/hr

Plasma Burn Table, Water Jet, Drill Line, Angle Line, Shear, Press Brake, Plate Processor. A ... The Machine Operator will need to handle multiple projects and communicate with others on the team.

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Joby Aviation

Water Jet Technician

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$31 - $46/hr

Joby Aviation is seeking a Water Jet Technician with machining experience who is a passionate individual, self-motivated and adaptable in our quick turnaround prototype environment. This role is to ...

Joby Aviation

Water Jet Technician

Marina, CA

$31 - $46/hr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a Water Jet Technician with machining experience who is a passionate individual, self-motivated and adaptable in our quick turnaround prototype environment. This ...

Joby Aviation

Water Jet Technician

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$31 - $46/hr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a Water Jet Technician with machining experience who is a passionate individual, self-motivated and adaptable in our quick turnaround prototype environment. This ...

Joby Aviation

Water Jet Technician

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$31 - $46/hr

Overview Joby Aviation is seeking a Water Jet Technician with machining experience who is a passionate individual, self-motivated and adaptable in our quick turnaround prototype environment. This ...

Ametek

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Pierceton, IN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Set up and operate Water Jet machines and computer. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: * Obtain and apply information from Work Instruction File/Travelers. * Read and understand blueprints. * Set up and operate ...

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Water Jet Machine Operator information

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

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for water jet machine operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Water Jet Machine Operator vs CNC Machinist?

AspectWater Jet Machine OperatorCNC Machinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical certification or associate's degree
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or fabrication shops, operating water jet cutting equipmentMachine shops, manufacturing facilities, operating CNC machines
Industry UsageHeavy industry, aerospace, automotive, custom fabricationMetalworking, aerospace, automotive, precision manufacturing

Both Water Jet Machine Operators and CNC Machinists work in manufacturing environments and require technical skills. While Water Jet Machine Operators focus on operating water jet cutting equipment, CNC Machinists program and operate computer-controlled machines. The roles overlap in industry and work environment, but differ in technical scope and certification requirements.

What does a Water Jet Machine Operator do?

A Water Jet Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining water jet cutting machines, which use high-pressure streams of water (sometimes mixed with abrasives) to cut various materials such as metal, glass, stone, or plastic. Operators read blueprints or CAD drawings to determine cutting specifications, load materials onto the machine, and monitor the cutting process to ensure precision and quality. They also perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting to keep the equipment running efficiently and safely.

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

Water Jet Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise tolerances, handling complex setup procedures, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. Managing these challenges requires attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and a solid understanding of the machine's software and maintenance needs. Collaboration with engineers and maintenance teams is also essential to ensure production quality and minimize downtime. Continuous learning and adherence to safety protocols help operators stay efficient and safe on the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Jet Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Jet Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of machine operation, blueprint reading, and basic math, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with CNC programming, water jet cutting systems, and CAD software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help operators ensure quality output and maintain a safe work environment. These competencies are essential for producing precise parts, minimizing errors, and maximizing machine efficiency in manufacturing settings.
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Water Jet Machine Operator jobs near you
Water Jet Machine Operator

Water Jet Machine Operator

Matthews International

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Matthews International rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

460th of 527 rated manufacturers

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
Matthews International, a company with over 175 years of success and stability is currently hiring for a Water Jet Machine Operator for our Bronze Foundry. As a global leader in memorialization, we take pride in our craftsmanship and commitment to quality - and it all starts with our people.
The Water Jet Machine Operator produces machined parts by programming, loading, and operating a computer numerical control (CNC) water jet machine. They also maintain quality and safety standards, keeping records, maintaining equipment and supplies.
This is a split-shift position, 40+ hours with overtime opportunities available. Shift hours will be 8am - 4:30am. Matthews International offers very competitive starting pay rates with opportunities for pay increases based on work performance.
What We Offer:
  • Competitive starting wages per hour based on experience.
  • Medical, Dental & Vision: Enjoy peace of mind with our comprehensive benefits package, including an employer HSA (Health Savings Account) contribution.
  • Earned Time Off: Recharge and rejuvenate with earned time off to spend on your terms.
  • Paid Holidays: Celebrate special moments and create lasting memories with paid holidays.
  • Financial Perks: 401(k) program as well as an Employee Stock Purchase Program.
  • Education Perks: We believe in your continued growth and offer educational assistance to support your professional development.
  • Dependent Scholarship Opportunities: We care about your family's future, which is why we provide opportunities for your dependents to pursue their educational dreams.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Sets up and operates CNC water jet to complete complex manufacturing operations at maximum capacity and efficiency.
  • Maintains specifications by observing machine cutting, taking measurements, detecting errors or discrepancies, troubleshooting operations, making program adjustments at the control, making tool offset adjustments, maintaining or replacing worn tools and components.
  • Inspects all incoming orders to assure the material and order documentation meet required manufacturing specifications; notifies group lead if material does not meet required specifications.
  • Complies with all company safety regulations and procedures.
  • Notifies Production Manager when manufacturing supplies need replenished advance of stock out.
  • Communicates and interacts effectively with Production Manager, peers and related positions to achieve department and divisional goals.
  • May train and direct the work of others.
  • Additional duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D. preferred.
  • 3+ years of previous machine operating experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Previous CNC/waterjet Machine Experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Strong analytical, prioritizing, interpersonal, problem-solving, presentation, budgeting, project management (from conception to completion), & planning skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills (including analysis, interpretation, & reasoning).
  • Ability to develop and maintain collaborative relationships with peers and colleagues across the organization, as well as, internal and external clients.
  • Ability to work well autonomously and within a team in a fast-paced and deadline-oriented environment.
  • Self-motivated with critical attention to detail, deadlines and reporting.
  • Possess a mechanical aptitude; ability to use a large variety of hand tools and basic knowledge of power tools, production machinery, etc.
  • Ability to work overtime as necessary.

PHYSICAL ASPECTS / WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk, hear and see.
  • Regularly/Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • Regularly/Occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, fumes or airborne particles, extreme cold & heat, risk of electrical shock, and toxic or caustic chemicals.
  • The noise level in the work environment may be high.

* Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
#LI-KA1
Matthews Memorialization is a leader in the memorialization industry who is committed to helping customers grow their businesses and helping families move from grieving to remembrance by providing products of superior craftsmanship and revenue generating programs and services. Within this industry, our Environmental Solutions is focused on the design and manufacture of advanced combustion systems. Matthews Memorialization is a (MATW) Matthews International company.
http://matw.com/memorialization/
At Matthews International, what makes us different is what makes us great. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
Matthews International affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, age, disability or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled.
Matthews International endeavors to make our employment website and application process accessible to all users and applicants. In doing so, Matthews International provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and require a reasonable accommodation or assistance completing the application process, please contact a member of our Human Resource Team.

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