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Water Jet Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water Jet Operator

Frederick, MD ยท On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Program, set up, and operate waterjet cutting machines to produce parts to specification * Work ... Experience operating waterjet cutting equipment in a manufacturing environment * Ability to program ...

Water Jetting Technician

Cincinnati, OH ยท On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

Overview Water Jetting Technician - Trainee Roto-Rooter Services Company has an exciting opening ... For branches using a pull-behind jet machine, you must have a DOT license. Benefits At Roto-Rooter ...

Machine Operator

Princeton, MN ยท On-site

$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 ...

Water Jet Operator

New Iberia, LA ยท On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Program, set up, and operate waterjet cutting machines to produce parts to specification * Work ... Experience operating waterjet cutting equipment in a manufacturing environment * Ability to program ...

Water Jet Operator

New Iberia, LA ยท On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Program, set up, and operate waterjet cutting machines to produce parts to specification * Work ... Experience operating waterjet cutting equipment in a manufacturing environment * Ability to program ...

An ideal candidate is passionate, self-motivated, adaptable, possesses complimentary machining ... CNC laser, plasma cutter, water jet, router, mill, press brakes. * Familiarity with waterjet ...

Machine Operator

Aitkin, MN ยท On-site

$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 ...

Sr. Water Jet Technician

Marina, CA ยท On-site

$56 - $67/hr

An ideal candidate is passionate, self-motivated, adaptable, possesses complimentary machining ... CNC laser, plasma cutter, water jet, router, mill, press brakes. * Familiarity with waterjet ...

Sr. Water Jet Technician

Santa Cruz, CA ยท On-site

$56 - $67/hr

An ideal candidate is passionate, self-motivated, adaptable, possesses complimentary machining ... CNC laser, plasma cutter, water jet, router, mill, press brakes. * Familiarity with waterjet ...

An ideal candidate is passionate, self-motivated, adaptable, possesses complimentary machining ... CNC laser, plasma cutter, water jet, router, mill, press brakes. * Familiarity with waterjet ...

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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.
Machine Operator - CNC & Manual (Knight Const. & Supply, Inc.)

Machine Operator - CNC & Manual (Knight Const. & Supply, Inc.)

Knight Companies

Deer Park, WA โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Salary: $20 - $24 per hour DOE

Growing continually since 1968, Knight Const. & Supply, Inc. (KCS) is a General Contractor (WA license #KNIGHCS2810N) focused on large heavy construction projects and industrial plant facility maintenance.

As a family-owned company and former U.S. Army Corps of Engineers National Civil Works Contractor of the Year Award winner, we enjoy close ties with Eastern Washington/Idaho communities around our Deer Park, WA headquarters. For over 50 years, we have been lauded by public agencies, commercial clients, and federal officials for our work in building and updating hydraulic steel and concrete properties as well as their associated actuators. These projects control the water flow, fish passage, and barge traffic via dams on systems including the Columbia and Snake Rivers as well as other waterways in Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Montana, and the Dakotas.

With an uninterrupted reputation for quality, stable work environment, and long-term employees while providing training and opportunities as the company has grown, KCS seeks additional motivated people to carry on this tradition of excellence in the field and close-knit support within the community. KCS maintains office, manufacturing, and fabrication facilities onsite featuring millwrights, electricians, heavy equipment and crane operators, as well as general laborers and administrative personnel. We want you to become a part of our team tackling some of the toughest hydroelectric and heavy industrial projects while enjoying the less hectic atmosphere of the region to enjoy family and friends in one of the most beautiful and unspoiled parts of the U.S.


Machine Operator CNC & Manual

The Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining a variety of machining equipment to produce precision parts that meet quality, safety, and production standards. This role requires hands-on experience with water jet cutting systems, CNC mills, lathes, press brakes, and conventional milling machines. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, mechanically inclined, and committed to producing high-quality work.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

These duties are those typically performed in this position. Employee may not perform all the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties.

  • Operate and monitor water jet cutting equipment to cut various materials to specification
  • Operate CNC mills, including loading material, deburring parts, and part inspection
  • Operate manual (knee) mills and lathes for custom, prototype, or low-volume work
  • Operate press brakes, including tooling selection and bend verification
  • Assist Machinist with line boring and other field machining operations
  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and work instructions
  • Perform in-process and final inspections using measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges
  • Adjust machine settings as needed to maintain dimensional accuracy, tool life, part stability, and surface finish
  • Identify and report equipment malfunctions, material defects, or quality issues
  • Perform routine machine maintenance, cleaning, and preventative care
  • Operate overhead crane and forklift to load and handle material
  • Operate company vehicle for transporting materials, tools, other related items
  • Maintain clean and organized work area
  • Follow all safety procedures, including proper use of PPE and lockout/tagout when required
  • Maintain accurate production and quality documentation
  • Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to meet deadlines and continuous improvement goals
  • Work within and promote corporate vision, mission, and values of the organization
  • Perform other duties as assigned

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, SKILLS AND EDUCATION

The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or learned within a short period of time to successfully perform the assigned duties.

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Driver License
  • Machinist certification and/or 1+ years of experience preferred, including operation of water jet cutting systems, CNC mills, CNC lathes, press brakes, conventional/manual milling machines
  • Ability to read blueprints and understand GD&T is preferred
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
  • Proficiency with precision measuring instruments
  • Ability to work independently with limited supervision
  • Willingness to work overtime or shifts as needed
  • Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines
  • Must be able to meet all safety requirements for applicable safety policies

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The statements below are intended to describe the physical nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification.

  • Perform strenuous physical labor in indoor/outdoor environments during all seasons
  • Frequent lifting/carrying objects 50 lbs. or more; Occasional lifting/carrying object 75 lbs. or more
  • Frequent lifting from ground level, waist level, and/or overhead
  • Frequent standing, walking, pushing, pulling, bending, kneeling, crouching/squatting, crawling
  • Frequent climbing multiple flights of stairs
  • Climbing and maintaining balance on ladders or stools reaching in all directions
  • Handling and manipulating objects and materials
  • Coordinating the movements of eyes, hands and fingers
  • Seeing with or without correction

JOB AND COMPANY BENEFITS

  • Top of market hourly rate (DOE+)
  • Employer-paid benefit package (medical, dental, vision, and life insurance)
  • Voluntary health plans (flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), long-term disability, and life)
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
  • Stable, family-owned and -operated business that focuses on the value of our employees


Safety-sensitive position / drug and alcohol-free workplace: Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test including marijuana.

Knight Const. & Supply, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, genetic information, family medical history, or any other status protected by law. If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at 509.276.2229 or accommodations@knightconst.com.