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Water Jet Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

The ideal candidate will need to have experience in programming, setup, and operation of a variety of machine tools including Water Jet, Blankets and Bonding. If this sounds like the kind of ...

The ideal candidate will need to have experience in programming, setup, and operation of a variety of machine tools including Water Jet, Blankets and Bonding. If this sounds like the kind of ...

The ideal candidate will need to have experience in programming, setup, and operation of a variety of machine tools including Water Jet, Blankets and Bonding. If this sounds like the kind of ...

The ideal candidate will need to have experience in programming, setup, and operation of a variety of machine tools including Water Jet, Blankets and Bonding. If this sounds like the kind of ...

Experience in setup and operating a variety of machine tools including Water Jet, Blankets and Bonding. * Experience in the manufacturing of large aerospace components from exotic materials.

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... water jet and vacuum trucks to clean and inspect underground pipes and manholes. Job requirements: will be required to work outside in all weather conditions, safely operate Class B Commercial ...

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Water Jet information

See Colorado salary details

$14

$23

$35

How much do water jet jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for water jet in Colorado is $23.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Water Jet operators and how can they be managed on the job?

Water Jet operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise cuts on various materials, handling machine maintenance, and ensuring safety due to high-pressure equipment. To manage these challenges, operators should regularly check and calibrate the machinery, follow strict safety protocols, and stay updated with manufacturer guidelines. Working closely with engineers, production managers, and maintenance teams helps address technical issues promptly and ensures smooth workflow within the fabrication or manufacturing environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Jet Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Jet Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with technical training preferred. Familiarity with CNC machines, CAD/CAM software, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, reliability, and teamwork are important soft skills that set top operators apart. These skills ensure precise cutting, efficient production, and safe operation in manufacturing environments.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the US, high-paying roles related to water jet technology are rare, but senior positions such as industrial managers, engineering directors, or specialized technical consultants in manufacturing or construction industries can reach or exceed $300,000 annually. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and often involve overseeing large projects or teams with specialized equipment like water jet cutting tools.

How much does a waterjet operator make?

A waterjet operator's average salary typically ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in CAD/CAM software may earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing or fabrication environments with shift work or overtime opportunities.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A water jet operator or technician can earn around $4,000 weekly with experience, especially in industrial or manufacturing settings that require skills in operating high-pressure water jet equipment. These roles often prioritize technical skills, safety training, and certifications over formal degrees, and may involve shift work or overtime to reach higher earnings.

How much does a waterjet cost per hour?

A water jet operator's hourly wage typically ranges from $20 to $40, depending on experience and location. The cost of operating a water jet machine, including equipment and materials, can range from $50 to $150 per hour. These costs are important for estimating project expenses and profitability.

What are water jet operators and what do they do?

Water jet operators are skilled technicians who use high-pressure water jet cutting machines to cut, shape, or engrave a variety of materials such as metal, stone, glass, and composites. They set up and operate these machines, monitor the cutting process, and ensure precision and quality in the final product. Water jet cutting is often used in manufacturing, fabrication, and prototyping because it allows for intricate cuts without generating heat that could damage the material. Operators also perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot issues to keep equipment running efficiently.
Infographic showing various Water Jet job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, 2% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,643 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Production Technician

Leidos

Colorado Springs, CO

$48K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 488 rated business services


Job description

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact?

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.

Your greatest work is ahead!

Leidos' Defense Systems Colorado Manufacturing is seeking a Production Technician to join our team at our Colorado Springs, CO location. The ideal candidate will need to have experience in programming, setup, and operation of a variety of machine tools including Water Jet, Blankets and Bonding.

If this sounds like the kind of environment where you can thrive, keep reading!

Leidos Defense Systems Sector / Manufacturing provides a diverse portfolio of systems, solutions, and services covering land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace for customers worldwide. Solutions for Defense include enterprise and mission IT, large-scale intelligence systems, command and control, geospatial and data analytics, cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is solving the world's toughest security challenges for customers with "can't fail" missions. To explore and learn more, click here!

Are you ready to make an impact? Apply and share your resume with us today

Primary Responsibilities

  • Must be capable of reading engineering drawings and CAD models.
  • Experience in setup and operating a variety of machine tools including Water Jet, Blankets and Bonding.
  • Experience in the manufacturing of large aerospace components from exotic materials.
  • Applicant must be able to work on different projects in an ever changing, rapid paced R&D environment with little or no assistance.

Basic Qualifications

  • High School diploma/GED with at least 2 years of experience years of precision machining experience on Water Jet and Sawing.
  • Candidates must have the ability to lift a minimum of 35+ pounds unassisted.
  • Candidate must be able to work overtime when required.
  • Applicant must be able to work a full-time, 4-days per week 10-hours per shift, 1st shift.

Must be a US Citizen and possess (and be able to maintain) a Final Secret Clearance OR meet the eligibility to obtain (and maintain) a Secret Clearance

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in the manufacturing of complex aerospace components from exotic materials, such as Blankets material, bonding material.
  • The operation and maintenance of a variety of equipment, including advanced water jet systems, sewing machines, and tools used for material bonding.
  • A successful technician must be well-versed in following all established production protocols meticulously, ensuring that every step is executed with precision.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:June 24, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $48,100.00 - $86,950.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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