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Water Jet Operator Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

Assembler

Tulsa, OK

$14 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience operating water jet equipment for cutting and shaping materials. * Experience with small CNC machines, including basic setup and operation. * Strong blueprint reading skills, including ...

Water Jet Operator information

See Oklahoma salary details

$12

$24

$37

How much do water jet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for water jet operator in Oklahoma is $24.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Water Jet Operator jobs in Oklahoma?

For Water Jet Operator jobs in Oklahoma, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Water Jet Operator job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,134 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Water Jet Operator NWJOPA

Oil States International

Tulsa, OK • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Oil States International rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Checks water jet gauges during every process run.
  • Rotates and stores all material per FIFO requirements.
  • Cuts/prepares material for water jet operation.
  • Loads material onto water jet machine.
  • Operates water jet according to job specifications.
  • Cleans up around water jet work area during run time.
  • Unloads parts from water jet.
  • Inspects parts for flaws, takes corrective action if needed.
  • Completes and maintains all quality process documentation.
  • Completes all required safety procedures prior to and during operation.
  • Cleans water jet and equipment in preparation for next process.
  • Records time and work on labor ticket each day; able to clock in/out of Mercury.
  • Communicates all production related information to next shift Water Jet Operator, or shift Supervisor.
  • Works well in a team environment.
  • Makes set ups.
  • Promotes efficient work habits.
  • Meets daily production quotas.
  • Perform all tasks as required of a Safety Sensitive position.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Moves molding material from staging area to water jet area
  • Assists in training of new workers
  • Relieves and fills in during lunch breaks when needed

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Manufacturing experience a plus
  • Experience with water jets, jigs and shears
  • Basic computer skills
  • Works under close supervision
  • Comprehension of written and verbal communication skills
  • Basic mathematical skills (addition/subtraction, multiplication/division)
  • Ability to contribute towards the success of the team
  • Ability to work independently or in a team environment
  • Ability to multi-task

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Prolonged standing/walking
  • Repetitive motion of finger, wrist, elbow, shoulder or neck movement
  • Occasional keyboard work
  • Occasional bending/twisting
  • Ability to hear and speak clearly
  • Lifting and carrying up to 100 pounds
  • Lifting from floor to waist/waist to shoulder
  • Pushing/pulling forces up to/over 40 pounds
  • Frequent reaching from shoulder level or below/over the shoulder/while holding objects weighing 5 lbs.
  • Occasional climbing of ramps and stairs
  • Ability to see to distinguish colors, prepare/analyze figures, prepare/review documents, visually inspect and to measure/assemble at a close distance
  • Frequent use of forklifts, slicing/cutting equipment and machinery
  • Ability to endure a non-AC work environment
  • Ability to work with fiberglass material

WORK ENVIRONMENT/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
  • Exposure to dangerous machinery
  • Exposure to extreme heat for more than an hour
  • Exposure to wet/damp areas
  • High noise level
  • Bright environment or lighting

SAFETY SENSITIVE POSITION:
  • This position is designated as a Safety Sensitive Position as defined by the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by this position. The incumbent is required to perform any other duties requested by his/her supervisor.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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