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Water Jet Operator Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Ramp Agent

Jamaica, NY · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Operate equipment to move luggage and cargo, tow planes between gates, and refill water tanks and ... Follow company procedures and protocols to ensure we are always operating in a safe and responsible ...

Water Jet Operator information

See New York salary details

$14

$28

$44

How much do water jet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for water jet operator in New York is $28.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $33.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water jet operator?

A Water Jet Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining water jet cutting machines, which use high-pressure water streams to cut materials like metal, glass, and composites. They read blueprints, set up machines, and adjust cutting parameters to ensure precision. Operators also perform routine maintenance, inspect finished products for quality, and troubleshoot mechanical issues. This role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and knowledge of safety procedures to prevent accidents.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a water jet operator?

As a Water Jet Operator, your typical day involves setting up and calibrating water jet cutting machines, reviewing technical drawings or blueprints, and loading materials for cutting. You'll monitor the cutting process closely to ensure quality and precision, troubleshoot minor equipment issues, and perform routine maintenance on the machines. Collaborating with engineers and quality control staff is common to ensure all finished parts meet specifications. In addition, maintaining a clean and safe work area is a key part of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water jet operator?

To thrive as a Water Jet Operator, strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and familiarity with blueprint reading and geometric tolerances are essential, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant vocational training. Proficiency in operating CNC-controlled water jet machines and knowledge of appropriate safety procedures, as well as any OSHA certifications, are highly beneficial. Effective problem-solving, time management, and teamwork skills help operators handle complex projects and collaborate efficiently with colleagues. These abilities ensure accurate, safe, and efficient part fabrication while minimizing waste and equipment downtime.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Jet Operator jobs in New York?

The most popular types of Water Jet Operator jobs in New York are:

What job categories do people searching Water Jet Operator jobs in New York look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Jet Operator jobs in New York are:

What cities in New York are hiring for Water Jet Operator jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Water Jet Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Jet Operator job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,403 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

CNC Programmer/ Manufacturing Automation Tech-Dover, New Jersey

Howmet Aerospace

Bridgewater, NJ

$35 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Supports all aspects of automation cells, including programming, troubleshooting, repair, and maintaining detailed reports of system issues and solutions.

  • Programs and documents code for manufacturing automation, including CNC programming and operator training for Mori-Seiki, Water Jet, and Spin Blast equipment.

  • Acts in a leadership role as SPA for automation equipment and process operations.


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 166 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Responsibilities
Howmet Engines is a world-class producer of aero engine and industrial gas turbine components, including airfoils, rings, disks and forgings. We excel in vacuum melted superalloys, machining, performance coatings and hot isostatic pressing for high-performance parts that enable the next generation of quieter, more fuel-efficient aero engines and cleaner power generation. Howmet Dover Casting is a world-class supplier of complex, investment-cast turbine airfoils and other components for the aircraft engine and industrial gas turbine industries. Howmet Dover Alloy is a world-class supplier of vacuum and air-melted nickel- and cobalt-based superalloys to aerospace, gas turbine, medical and other high-technology industrial markets.
Anticipated Pay Range: $35.00- $40.00 per hour. *Pay rates within this range are determined based on various factors including experience, education, certifications, etc.
  • Please Note: Do not let the salary range deter you from applying. Please apply and enter an amount in the "Minimum Pay" field, so we can take into consideration all factors, including years and type of experience.

Benefits: We are proud to offer a competitive benefits package, including comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance coverage, matching 401K, Life Insurance, Short Term Disability, Performance Pay Bonus, Paid Time Off, Wellness Programs, EAP Program (free local gym membership) as well as other discounted benefits
Position Overview
The manufacturing automation technician supports all aspects of the automation cells; including programming, general house cleaning, trouble shooting, and repair; he or she also maintains detailed reports of system problems and applied solutions.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Provides manufacturing support of CNC finishing.
  • Maintains and improves reliability and productivity of automated equipment.
  • Programs and documents code for manufacturing automation.
  • Responsible for CNC programming PM's and operator training for Mori-Seiki and Water Jet and Spin Blast
  • Acts in leadership role as SPA for automation equipment and process operations.

Skills and Abilities:
  • Automation programming skills to refine movement using various controllers.
  • Must be able to write and edit CNC programs (3 & 4 axis milling) using either Siemans NX
  • Ability to design fixtures and jigs preferred
  • Able to calculate and set controls to optimize machining factors such as speed, feed, coolant flow, depth and angle of cut.
  • Ability to optimize processes for production.
  • Ability to read and interpret drawings, prints, specifications, and written instructions.
  • Good oral and written communications skills.
  • PC literate in Microsoft Word and Excel.
  • Good mechanical and/or electrical aptitude.
  • Experience using industrial controllers.
  • Good, methodical aptitude for troubleshooting equipment and related issues.
  • Must be organized with the discipline to solve problems with permanent solutions.

EHS Requirements:
  • Expected to assist in the implementation of EHS Values and policy statements and accompanying principals.
  • Comply with all department, facility, corporate and regulatory EHS regulations.
  • Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Report all job-related illness and injuries (Per Employee Handbook).
  • Report all safety, health and environmental concerns to your supervisor in a timely manner.
  • Attend all EHS training.

Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
  • Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  • This position entails access to export-controlled items and employment offers are conditioned upon an applicant's ability to lawfully obtain access to such items.
  • High school diploma or equivalent; Associate degree in a technical discipline preferred.
  • 1-3 years in an engineering or manufacturing environment including hands-on relevant experience evaluating automated equipment and processes and solving automated equipment issues.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Tooling background,
  • CNC fixture design
  • CAD/CAM experience, Siemens NX preferred
  • DMG MOIRI 5 axis programing with a Siemens controller
  • DMG MORI 4 axis programing with a Mitsubishi controller
  • Write probing macros for both Siemens and Mitsubishi controller

Physical Demands / Equipment Used
  • Computer and Related Hardware

Disclaimer
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.
About Us
Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers' success and making a positive impact on the world. To learn more about the way Howmet Aerospace Inc. is advancing the sustainability of our customers, markets, and communities where we operate, review the 2025 Environmental Social and Governance report at www.howmet.com/esg-report. Follow: LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
If you need assistance to complete your application due to a disability, please email TalentAcquisitionCoE_Howmet@howmet.com

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About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888