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Water Jet Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Water Jet Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$15

$29

$46

How much do water jet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for water jet operator in Seattle, WA is $29.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $34.47 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 Seattle, WA? For Water Jet Operator jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Water Jet Operator jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Water Jet Operator job openings:
Water Jet Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Jet Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,827 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

WaterJet Operator - 1st shift

Pegasus Northwest Inc

Kent, WA • On-site

$21 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Pegasus Northwest located in Kent, WA is currently looking for an experienced WaterJet Operator to join our team in a fast paced and rewarding environment. We are a company that believes in work-life balance and offer our employee's Health Benefits, 401K, Personal Time, Holiday Pay, On-Site Gym, and Wellness Programs.
Since 1997 Pegasus Northwest, Inc. has built an exceptional reputation of quality and service in the Aerospace Industry by being the premier water jet cutter in the Pacific Northwest. To learn more about us please visit www.pegasusnw.com
We are looking for a person that is positive, energetic, forward-thinking and can be a part of a team.
Water Jet Operator plans and performs a variety of machine operations utilizing numerical control machining centers to cut, shape, or form metal workpieces to specifications. Water jet cut parts in accordance of work orders and instructions. Follow company policies, procedures, produces machined parts by programming, setting up, and operating a computer numerical control (CNC) machine. Maintains quality and safety standards, keeps records and maintains equipment and supplies.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Inspect your machine for cleanliness, worn / broken parts
  • Review Tie-in before proceeding
  • Review work order, verify everything is filled out correctly before proceeding
  • Arrange the machine & Inspect the following: nozzle size, nozzle perpendicularity, table set-up, abrasive hopper and metering disk flow rate, mtl levelness
  • Sets-up adjusting nozzle and abrasive metering disk, space heads equally per program instructions, enter correct cutter offsets
  • Programs controller by entering instructions, including zero and reference points; setting tool registers, offsets, compensation, calculating requirements, including basic math, geometry, proving part programs
  • Pull material per work instructions, verify quantity, material type, record lot/batch numbers and THICKNESS
  • Square material to machines axis, create part program zero
  • Look for improvements for cutting faster, material yields, and or foreseen concerns
  • Ensure timely preparation and availability of all production materials to avoid shortage during production
  • Maintains specifications by inspecting parts, adjusting feeds and speeds, cutter compensation, maintaining Z-height throughout the entire process, adhering to quality assurance procedures and processes
  • Documents actual parts cut, rejects, segregates questionable parts, fills out work order complete before moving to next operation
  • Visually inspects the pump and machine for signs of leaks, tares, broken parts, etc. before operating and cutting first part
  • Strictly adhere to bid speed and work order specifications and ensure good quality work
  • Inspect first part for accuracy i.e. edge quality, dimensions, etc. before taking part to QA, lead / supervisor
  • Adhere to sampling plans, perform random part sampling on your own accord
  • Troubleshoot machine problems to determine actual faults before calling maintenance or lead / supervisor
  • Report to supervisor(s) regularly, keeping them updated on production activities and progress e.g. shortage of material, better nesting opportunities, RISKS, etc.
  • Maintains safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations
  • Maintains continuity among work shifts by documenting and communicating actions, irregularities, and continuing needs.

Skills / Knowledge:
  • Experience with waterjet machines and software is preferred but not required. TRAINING PROVIDED!
  • Excellent English communication skills
  • Have good computer skills
  • Ability to multi-task in a dynamic, fast-moving environment
  • Ability to work independently and prioritize responsibilities
  • Must be a team player with a positive and professional disposition
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time, ability to bend and squat throughout an 8-hour shift

We are an equal employment opportunity employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Pay Range: $21 - $26 per hour

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