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Water Jet Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Bowhead

CNC Machinist

Indian Head, MD

$35 - $45/hr

The ideal candidate will have 7-10 years of hands-on experience operating CNC machines and water ... Set up, operate, and maintain CNC machining centers, manual mills/lathes, and water jet cutting ...

Bowhead

CNC Machinist

Indian Head, MD · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

The ideal candidate will have 7-10 years of hands-on experience operating CNC machines and water ... Set up, operate, and maintain CNC machining centers, manual mills/lathes, and water jet cutting ...

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Water Jet Operator information

See Washington salary details

$14

$29

$46

How much do water jet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for water jet operator in Washington is $29.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.41 and $34.33 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 Washington?

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

What are popular job titles related to Water Jet Operator jobs in Washington?

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Water Jet Operator jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Water Jet Operator job openings:

Water Jet Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Jet Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,497 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

CNC Machinist

Indian Head, MD

Bowhead
1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Bowheadexternal

$35 - $45/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Overview

CNC MACHINIST (AT):

We are seeking a skilled and motivated CNC Machinist to join the fabrication team at NSWC Indian Head. The ideal candidate will have 7-10 years of hands-on experience operating CNC machines and water jets in a collaborative, fast-paced prototype shop environment. This individual must be able to interpret engineering drawings-including Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)-use basic metrology equipment, and work closely with engineers and fellow machinists to support rapid development and iteration.

Responsibilities
  • Set up, operate, and maintain CNC machining centers, manual mills/lathes, and water jet cutting machines to produce prototype components.
  • Read and interpret complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and GD&T specifications to ensure accurate part fabrication.
  • Use basic metrology equipment (e.g., calipers, micrometers, height gauges, dial indicators) for in-process and final inspection of parts.
  • Collaborate with engineers and other team members to resolve design and manufacturability issues during the prototyping process.
  • Perform inspections to verify tolerances and ensure conformance to specifications.
  • Follow established shop safety procedures, maintenance protocols, and material handling guidelines.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of work performed and job status.
  • Keep workstations clean and organized in a team-based shop environment.
  • Ensure compliance with security protocols and quality standards in a government facility.
Qualifications
    • High school diploma or GED required; trade school or technical certification in machining preferred.
    • 7-10 years of experience in a machine shop setting, specifically with CNC machines and water jet cutting equipment.
    • Solid understanding of engineering drawings and GD&T principles.
    • Familiarity with basic metrology tools and inspection procedures.
    • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
    • Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team setting.
    • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance (U.S. citizenship required).
  •  

  • Preferred Qualifications:

    • Experience in a DoD or government fabrication/prototyping environment.
    • Familiarity with CAD/CAM software such as Mastercam, Fusion 360, or SolidWorks CAM.
    • Understanding of material properties and machining techniques for metals, plastics, and composites.
  •  

  • Work Environment & Conditions:

    • 100% on-site position at NSWC Indian Head, no remote or hybrid work.
    • Hands-on shop environment requiring PPE and adherence to safety protocols.
    • Physical requirements include lifting materials and standing for extended periods.

Physical Demand:

    • Frequent walking, standing, and moving between workstations in the machine shop environment.
    • Ability to lift and move materials or parts weighing up to 50 pounds.
    • Regular exposure to noise, dust, and vibrations typical of a machine shop.
    • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as required, including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.
    • Occasional bending, kneeling, and reaching to access materials or equipment.

Target hourly range is between $35 - $45 commensurate with experience.

Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Bowhead considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and business considerations when extending an offer.

SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance at the Secret level. US Citizenship is a requirement for Secret clearance at this location.

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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