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Water Jet Machine Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Jacquet

Machine Operators (3rd shift)

Houston, TX · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

The machine operator is responsible for the safe operation, maintenance, and cutting of stainless steel and nickel alloys per customer specifications on the Laser, Water Jet, or Saw machine.

Jacquet

Machine Operators (3rd shift)

Houston, TX · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The machine operator is responsible for the safe operation, maintenance, and cutting of stainless steel and nickel alloys per customer specifications on the Laser, Water Jet, or Saw machine.

CRH

Machine Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Machine Operator Infrastructure Products Group Houston, Texas, United States Job ID: 528204 Non ... the water, energy, and communications markets throughout North America. We're a trusted and ...

CRH

Machine Operator

Houston, TX

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

... the water, energy, and communications markets throughout North America. We're a trusted and ... The machine operator will operate an automated cage machine or a concrete pipe machine. Job ...

Chart Industries

Machine Operator - Finning

Beasley, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

S. and delivering clean water to over a billion people worldwide, providing equipment and solutions ... Chart's Machine Operator position plays a key role in the manufacturing process of Chart's products.

Chart Industries

Machine Operator - Finning

Beasley, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

S. and delivering clean water to over a billion people worldwide, providing equipment and solutions ... Chart's Machine Operator position plays a key role in the manufacturing process of Chart's products.

City of La Porte

Utility Operator I

La Porte, TX · On-site

$20.96 - $26.20/hr

UTILITY OPERATOR I Category: Full-Time Status: Open Hourly: Min. $20.961 - Mid. $26.201 Published ... machine, combinations vacuum/water jet. * Remove and install meters. Install barricades and route ...

City of La Porte, Texas

Utility Operator I

La Porte, TX · On-site

$20.96 - $26.20/hr

UTILITY OPERATOR I Category: Full-Time Status: Open Hourly: Min. $20.961 - Mid. $26.201 Published ... machine, combinations vacuum/water jet. * Remove and install meters. Install barricades and route ...

Howmet Aerospace

Machine Operator - Night Shift

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium ... Howmet - Houston Extrusions (77061) is seeking a skilled and safety-driven machine operators for ...

Howmet Aerospace

Machine Operator - Night Shift

Houston, TX

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Howmet - Houston Extrusions (77061) is seeking a skilled and safety-driven machine operators for ... Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium ...

Howmet Aerospace

Machine Operator - Night Shift

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Howmet - Houston Extrusions (77061) is seeking a skilled and safety-driven machine operators for ... Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium ...

USA INDUSTRIES LLC

GSST Assembly Tech

South Houston, TX · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

... water jet, engraving, stamping, or packaging of manufactured products. * Remains knowledgeable and current with all shop machine processes, regulations, and guidelines, including forklift operations ...

Howmet

Machine Operator - Night Shift

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Howmet - Houston Extrusions (77061) is seeking a skilled and safety-driven machine operators for ... Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium ...

Velocity Flex

Be Seen First

Manual CNC Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Work with manual milling machines such as Bridgeport , BT-10B , and Jet mills. * Modify existing ... Hands-on experience operating Bridgeport, BT-10B, Jet, or similar manual milling machines.

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All JobsWater Jet Machine Operator JobsWater Jet Machine Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Water Jet Machine Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$11

$17

$22

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for water jet machine operator in Houston, TX is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are popular job titles related to Water Jet Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX?

For Water Jet Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Jet Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Jet Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

Water Jet Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Jet Machine Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,123 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Machine Operators (3rd shift)

Jacquet

Houston, TX • On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate and maintain Laser, Water Jet, or Saw machines to cut stainless steel and nickel alloys according to customer specifications.

  • Perform daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance on the machines and assist maintenance as needed.

  • Monitor machine consumables, remove scrap, and report any deficiencies.

Job description

Description:

JACQUET is an established market leader in the distribution of stainless steel and nickel alloys in plate and round bar. Jacquet strives to be the best supplier of stainless steel and nickel cut parts by providing high quality in-house processing. Metals are sold either as-is or cut to made-to-measure sizes using plasma machines, water jets, lasers or saws. Jacquet applications cover many industrial sectors such as the water, environment, energy, mechanical and forged metal construction, chemical and agri-food, gas processing and storage, pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors. We have four strategically placed locations within the US including Pennsylvania, California, Texas, and Wisconsin with many more globally.


We are currently seeking experienced Machine Operators for 3rd shift at our Houston, TX facility. The hours are Monday-Friday 10:00pm-6:30am (will train on 1st shift for the first month). Multiple positions are available and include; Laser, Waterjet, and Saw Operators. We offer training, competitive pay, and a comprehensive benefits package. If you have the necessary skills and qualifications, we would enjoy the opportunity to speak with you!


Description:

The machine operator is responsible for the safe operation, maintenance, and cutting of stainless steel and nickel alloys per customer specifications on the Laser, Water Jet, or Saw machine.


Responsibilities:

  • Take primary responsibility for operation and maintenance of the machine to include Production, Quality, accuracy of Production Logs, and BT/Travelers/Programs.
  • Perform daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance as needed.
  • Assist maintenance whenever requested or directed.
  • Monitor your machines’ consumables. Cut and remove scrap. Report any deficiencies.
  • Use plates, bars, rems, and programs as specified by Production Control. Prior approval for any changes.
  • Work with QA department on all matters of quality to include quality of cut parts, cutting tolerances, quality statistics and ISO 9000 certification.
  • Ensure that safe work practices are maintained always within your work section and always adhere to safety requirements and wear required protective equipment.
  • Control the neat, orderly and accurate storage of all bar inventory in the plant.
  • Organize the work area of your machines. All tools should be put away in an orderly manner.
  • Maintain and constantly improve upon the cleanliness of your section.
  • Perform other reasonable tasks as requested by the Operations Manager or the floor supervisor.

Requirements:

  • Minimum 18 years
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
  • Ability to read and write English
  • Ability to stand, sit, bend, stoop, and reach
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs.

Other Skills:

  • Attention to detail
  • Team player
  • Basic familiarity with computers/software programs

Experience:

  • 1+ years prior experience with machine operations
  • 1+ year(s) prior experience operating an overhead crane
  • 1+ year(s) prior experience operating a forklift


Pay Range: commensurate with experience


Requirements: