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Water Jet Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

City of La Porte

Utility Operator I

La Porte, TX · On-site

$20.96 - $26.20/hr

UTILITY OPERATOR I Category: Full-Time Status: Open Hourly: Min. $20.961 - Mid. $26.201 Published ... water jet. * Remove and install meters. Install barricades and route traffic in a safe manner.

City of La Porte, Texas

Utility Operator I

La Porte, TX · On-site

$20.96 - $26.20/hr

UTILITY OPERATOR I Category: Full-Time Status: Open Hourly: Min. $20.961 - Mid. $26.201 Published ... water jet. * Remove and install meters. Install barricades and route traffic in a safe manner.

Jacquet

Machine Operators (3rd shift)

Houston, TX · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

The machine operator is responsible for the safe operation, maintenance, and cutting of stainless steel and nickel alloys per customer specifications on the Laser, Water Jet, or Saw machine.

Jacquet

Machine Operators (3rd shift)

Houston, TX · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The machine operator is responsible for the safe operation, maintenance, and cutting of stainless steel and nickel alloys per customer specifications on the Laser, Water Jet, or Saw machine.

Openwork

Production Line Supervisor

Meadows Place, TX

$90K/yr

Turmatic Flow Water Jet Systems * Accurpress CNC Press Brakes * AMADA fabrication equipment * Copper tube bending machines * Multi-Press hydraulic press systems * Other sheet metal fabrication and ...

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Water Jet Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do water jet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for water jet operator in Houston, TX is $24.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.76 and $28.94 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 Houston, TX?

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

What job categories do people searching Water Jet Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Jet Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Water Jet Operator jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Water Jet Operator job openings:

Water Jet Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Jet Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,852 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Utility Operator I

City of La Porte

La Porte, TX • On-site

$20.96 - $26.20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

UTILITY OPERATOR I
Category: Full-Time
Status: Open
Hourly: Min. $20.961 - Mid. $26.201
Published: August 4, 2026
Closing: Until Filled
DEFINITION
To perform a wide variety of skilled and semi-skilled work in the construction, maintenance and repair; to water distribution and sewage collection systems.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general supervision from a Utility Supervisor.
Receives direct supervision from the Senior Utility Operator

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Available to work weekends and holidays and respond to emergency call outs.
  • Install, large and small water and sewer services.
  • Perform installation, repairs and maintenance on water mains, fire hydrants, water valves and water meters, sewer lines, manholes and cleanouts and related appurtenances.
  • Inspect, test, and operate portable pumps, portable generators and related gas driven equipment valves, fittings, meters, and related water production and distribution and sewer collection equipment as assigned.
  • Operate trucks and construction equipment such as backhoes and trenching machines, horizontal boring machine, combinations vacuum/water jet.
  • Remove and install meters. Install barricades and route traffic in a safe manner.
  • Report mechanical or other problems; keep truck orderly and clean.
  • Operate a pneumatic pavement break Construct form, pour and finish concrete.
  • Maintain routine records, logs, and reports. Check update drawings and maps.
  • Perform related duties as assigned.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
For indefinite periods of time - mobility within an office and field environment; exposure to chemical, toxic waste, dust/mites, fume, odor, explosive, electrical and mechanical hazards; exposure to extreme cold, heat, height and constant noise; walking; twisting body; stooping; standing; squatting; sitting; seeing; running; pushing, pulling, lifting, dragging, and carrying up to 80 pounds; kneeling; reading; decision making; reaching above shoulder level; using both hands for simple and firm grasping; clarity of hearing; communicating clearly and effectively, in person and by two-way radio; fine finger manipulation; operation of a backhoe, trenching machine, jackhammer and all hand tools; operation of a motor vehicle through city traffic.

QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
  • Basic construction and maintenance methods, procedures, tools, equipment, supplies and materials of water and sewer utility systems.
  • Safe work practices under hazardous conditions.
  • Operation of a variety of construction equipment.

Ability to:
  • Perform a variety of construction, repair, and maintenance tasks.
  • Work under routine and emergency conditions, sometimes in severe weather.
  • Operate light equipment and learn to operate heavier construction equipment.
  • Work efficiently and safely with others.
  • Understand and follow verbal and written instructions and directions.
  • Perform a wide range of physically strenuous tasks as required.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
One year of utility related construction or maintenance experience preferred.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES
High School Diploma or GED preferred. Possession of a valid Texas Driver’s License. Possession of a valid Class “B” CDL or ability to obtain in six months.

*Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.

*Duties, responsibilities and action may change at any time or without notice.

The City of La Porte is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.

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