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Water Jet Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Joby Aviation

Water Jet Technician- Temporary

Marina, 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 ...

System One

CNC Operator

Lower Burrell, PA · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

CNC Operator Location: Lower Burrell, Pennsylvania Type: Contract To Hire Compensation: $25.00 ... Operate CNC Water Jet machine as secondary duties require * Support bring-up and operation of CNC ...

Visioneering (MI)

Waterjet Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

... machining and manufacturing. Our quality management system has been tried and tested to meet the ... A Water Jet Operator in aerospace manufacturing is responsible for setting up, operating, and ...

System One

CNC Operator

Lower Burrell, PA · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

CNC Operator Location: Lower Burrell, Pennsylvania Type: Contract To Hire Compensation: $25.00 ... Operate CNC Water Jet machine as secondary duties require * Support bring-up and operation of CNC ...

ELEMET GROUP INC

Machine Operator

Princeton, MN

$18 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator contributes to the overall success of the business through ensuring that ... axis water jet cutting and provide our customers with vertically integrated solutions. Our core ...

System One

CNC Operator

Lower Burrell, PA · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

CNC Operator Location: Lower Burrell, Pennsylvania Type: Contract To Hire Compensation: $25.00 ... Operate CNC Water Jet machine as secondary duties require * Support bring-up and operation of CNC ...

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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

Manufacturing & Fabrication Operator

Envision Benefits Group LLC

North Tonawanda, NY • On-site

$16 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

A growing metal fabrication and machining company is seeking a motivated, mechanically inclined individual to join our sheet metal manufacturing team as a Manufacturing & Fabrication Operator. This is a versatile, hands-on role that plays a key part in keeping our production floor running smoothly. The ideal candidate will be comfortable wearing multiple hats, taking on responsibilities across machine operation, shipping and receiving, quality control, and material handling. Prior experience in a manufacturing environment is helpful but not required - we are willing to train the right person.
Education and Experience
Required
  • Highschool diploma or equivalent
  • Valid driver's license
  • Forklift Operator's Certificate or willingness to obtain upon hire
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to work with hand and power tools
  • Ability to read and follow work orders, packing slips, and basic technical documents.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Preferred
  • Experience in a sheet metal or manufacturing environment
  • Water jet machine operation experience
  • Prior shipping and receiving experience
  • Basic quality control or inspection experience

Physical Requirements:
  • Significant lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; frequent climbing and balancing; frequent stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and significant fine finger dexterity.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods of time.

Requirements
Machine Operation
  • Operate sheet metal fabrication machinery in accordance with production schedules and safety guidelines.
  • Set up and run machines efficiently while maintaining quality standards.
  • Perform basic machine maintenance and report any equipment issues to the supervisor.

Water Jet Operation (Preferred)
  • Assist with or operate water jet cutting experience as needed.
  • Follow programming instructions and inspect finished cuts for accuracy.

Shipping & Receiving
  • Receive incoming shipments, verify accuracy against purchase orders, and document accordingly.
  • Prepare outgoing shipments including packaging, labeling, and documentation.
  • Maintain an organized and clean shipping and receiving area.
  • Coordinate with vendors, carriers, and internal teams to ensure timely delivery and pickup.

Forklift & Truck Operation
  • Operate forklifts and company trucks to move materials within the facility and to/from job sites or vendors as needed.
  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections in accordance with safety requirements.
  • Maintain a valid driver's license and forklift certification.

Quality Control
  • Perform basic quality checks on incoming and outgoing materials and finished products.
  • Document and report any defects, discrepancies, or non-conforming materials to the appropriate team member.
  • Support continuous improvement efforts on the production floor.

General Operations
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment at all times.
  • Follow all company safety policies and OSHA guidelines.
  • Assist other team members and departments as needed.

Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status under federal, state, or local law.
Salary Description
$16 - $25 Per Hour

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