1

Water Jet Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Shop Laborer

Loveland, CO ยท On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Machine and fabrication shop environment around equipment such as water jet tables, lathes, milling machines, press brakes and forklifts. Welding operations are often taking place nearby. This job ...

New

DFM Project Engineer

Denver, CO ยท On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Material selection knowledge (i.e. use of press brake technology/laser/plasma/water jet cutting) is a plus * Welding of various materials- hydraulic press (stamping) technology, progressive die ...

Showing results 21-40

Water Jet information

See Colorado salary details

$14

$23

$35

How much do water jet jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 does a water jet operator 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,643 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Jet Truck Vactor Operator

PURIS Corporation, LLC

Denver, CO โ€ข On-site

$25 - $31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Jet Truck Vactor Operator

About PURIS:

PURIS operates across North America as the largest independent trenchless rehabilitation provider with 900+ employees dedicated to building lasting infrastructure with smart, sustainable resource management. The PURIS Family of Companies provide trenchless renewal solutions in the water, wastewater and stormwater markets. Our environmentally friendly solutions work within the existing infrastructure to save time, minimize environmental impact and cause fewer community disruptions. With an unrivaled toolbox of technologies, PURIS has the RIGHT solution for each project.

Job Summary Description:

PURIS is seeking a dedicated, team-oriented, and safety-focused Jet Truck Vactor Operator to join our team. You will play a critical role in our industrial cleaning operations by safely and efficiently removing waste materials, liquids, and sludge from client sites. This role requires a strong commitment to safety regulations and a collaborative spirit to ensure successful project completion.

Essential Job Accountabilities:

  • Safely operate and maneuver a CDL Class A or B vacuum truck, adhering to company policies, procedures, and safety regulations.
  • Perform efficient removal of various waste materials, liquids, sludge, and debris from tanks, pits, vessels, and other industrial structures.
  • Utilize vacuum equipment, hoses, and attachments to effectively and safely complete cleaning tasks.
  • Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of vacuum trucks, ensuring they are in proper working condition and reporting any issues promptly.
  • Perform basic maintenance tasks such as checking fluid levels, inspecting hoses and fittings, and cleaning filters.
  • Communicate equipment repair or maintenance needs to the appropriate personnel.
  • Ensure proper handling, transportation, and disposal of waste materials in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Adhere to waste management protocols, including identifying and segregating hazardous and non-hazardous materials.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of waste removal activities, including manifests and disposal records.
  • Adhere to all safety procedures and guidelines, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and following lockout/tagout procedures.
  • Participate in safety meetings and training sessions, actively promoting a culture of safety awareness and compliance among team members.
  • Identify potential hazards and report safety concerns to supervisors, suggesting improvements to enhance safety measures and practices.
  • Accurately record and maintain job-specific documentation, including work orders, inspection reports, and incident reports.
  • Collaborate with team members to provide detailed and accurate information for project reports, including completed tasks, challenges encountered, and recommendations for improvement.
  • Coordinate and communicate effectively with other team members, including supervisors and project managers, to ensure efficient workflow and successful project completion.
  • Support and assist colleagues with various tasks as needed, fostering a collaborative and positive work environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Incumbent must possess and demonstrate proficiency in the above responsibilities.
  • Must demonstrate good communications and interaction skills.
  • Must be accurate, detailed, reliable and able to follow orders on projects & tasks with minimal supervision.
  • Must have ability to be proactive and trouble shoot.
  • Solid understanding and knowledge of standard field pipe rehabilitation installation procedures.
  • Must be able to work in extreme work environments, conditions, and confined spaces.
  • Position requires motivated individual willing to learn and move up.
  • CDL preferred.

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive and competitive benefits package that includes medical/Rx, dental, vision, critical illness and accident insurance, and short-term disability.
  • Several 100% company-paid benefits including:
    • Life Insurance
    • Long-term disability
    • Employee assistance program
  • Bonus program
  • 401(k) savings plan with company match
  • Generous PTO
  • 10 paid holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.