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Water Jet Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

High school diploma or technical certification in CNC machining or manufacturing technology. * Minimum 2 years of experience operating CNC water jet or similar cutting equipment. * Proficiency in ...

High school diploma or technical certification in CNC machining or manufacturing technology. * Minimum 2 years of experience operating CNC water jet or similar cutting equipment. * Proficiency in ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

If you have water jet experience, this Water Jet Operator position could be exactly what you're ... Monitor machine performance and ensure quality standards are met * Assist with material handling ...

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

As of Jun 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.

How much does a waterjet cost per hour?

The hourly cost for operating a waterjet machine typically ranges from $100 to $200, depending on factors such as machine size, complexity, and operator skill. This includes equipment depreciation, maintenance, and consumables, and does not account for labor costs if an operator is hired separately.

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.
More about Water Jet Machine Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Jet Machine Operator jobs? Cities with the most Water Jet Machine Operator job openings:
What states have the most Water Jet Machine Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Jet Machine Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Water Jet Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

$16 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Water Jet Machine Operator

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. 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 - 4:30pm.

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.