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Water Jet Operator Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Water Jet Operator information

See Boston, MA salary details

$14

$28

$44

How much do water jet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for water jet operator in Boston, MA is $28.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.45 and $32.88 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 popular job titles related to Water Jet Operator jobs in Boston, MA?

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

What job categories do people searching Water Jet Operator jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Jet Operator jobs in Boston, MA are:

Water Jet Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Jet Operator job openings in Boston, MA 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 $58,989 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

CNC Operator/Machinist I

Abbess Instruments and Systems, Inc.

Holliston, MA

$30 - $55/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

At a Glance

Company: Abbess Instruments and Systems, Inc.
Location: Holliston, MA 01746
Pay: $30–$55 per hour
Job Type: Full Time
Experience: Entry-level; equipment training provided
Machines: Bridgeport mills
Controls: ProtoTRAK

Why This Job Is Worth Considering

Abbess Instruments and Systems designs and builds custom vacuum chambers and vacuum/thermal test systems used across aerospace, electronics, and materials science testing. As a CNC Operator/Machinist I, you'll set up and run Bridgeport and ProtoTRAK mills to produce precision components used in Abbess' own products, then inspect your work against print before it moves on. The shop cross-trains onto additional equipment, including a CNC burn table, laser, water jet, and saws, so there's room to build skills beyond milling if you're interested. Abbess operates under an ISO 9001:2015 quality system, so documentation and continuous improvement are part of the daily routine.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Set up, operate, and clean up CNC mills to produce parts to print
  • Review drafted work orders and coordinate production requirements with the CAD engineer
  • Inspect machined parts using calipers, micrometers, and pin gages to confirm they meet design specs
  • Troubleshoot and make mechanical adjustments and repairs on equipment as needed
  • Operate overhead cranes and lifts safely during machine and material handling
  • Communicate with engineering and design on any change orders
  • Complete required documentation, including time logging and production data entry
  • Cross-train on additional equipment such as CNC burn table, laser, water jet, or saws as needed

Machines, Controls and Software

Bridgeport mills and ProtoTRAK conversational controls are the core daily equipment. Abbess also cross-trains machinists onto its CNC burn table, laser, water jet, and saws as production needs arise — prior experience with this additional equipment is preferred but not required, and training is provided.

What We're Looking For

Required

  • Experience operating Bridgeport or similar manual/CNC mills
  • Comfortable using precision measuring tools — calipers, micrometers, and pin gages
  • Basic math skills
  • Ability to work independently as part of a team-based production floor
  • Experience working around or with an overhead crane

Preferred

  • Prior exposure to CNC burn table, laser, water jet, or saw equipment (training provided if not)

Apply