Waterjet In Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for waterjet in in Portland, OR is $30.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $34.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

To thrive as a Waterjet Operator, you need a solid understanding of machine operation, blueprint reading, and basic mathematics, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CNC waterjet cutting machines, CAD/CAM software, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help operators produce precise parts and work efficiently with team members. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate production, maintaining safety, and meeting project specifications in a manufacturing environment.

Waterjet operators are skilled technicians who use high-pressure waterjet cutting machines to shape and cut a variety of materials, such as metal, stone, glass, and composites. They are responsible for setting up, programming, and operating the waterjet equipment according to precise specifications. Waterjet operators ensure accuracy in cutting, maintain the machinery, and follow safety protocols to create parts and products for industries like manufacturing, aerospace, and construction. Their expertise is essential for producing complex shapes and minimizing material waste.

Jobs like waterjet operators may decline as automation and advanced manufacturing technologies, such as CNC machines and robotic cutting systems, become more prevalent. Routine manual roles are increasingly replaced by machines, leading to a reduction in certain skilled trades that rely on manual operation and traditional tools. Workers in these fields will need to adapt by developing skills in automation, programming, and maintenance of new equipment.

Waterjet In jobs typically do not pay $4,000 a week without specialized skills or experience. High-paying roles in manufacturing or industrial settings may reach such earnings through overtime, bonuses, or supervisory responsibilities, but these are uncommon without formal education or extensive training. Most high-paying jobs in this field require technical skills, certifications, or years of experience.

For a Waterjet In operator, the cost per hour typically ranges from $50 to $150, depending on factors such as location, experience, and the complexity of the job. Equipment maintenance, material costs, and skill level also influence overall expenses for waterjet cutting services or operations.

Waterjet Operators are required to adhere to strict safety protocols to prevent injuries and ensure a smooth workflow. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety goggles, gloves, and ear protection, as well as routinely inspecting the waterjet machine for leaks or malfunctions before use. Operators must also follow lockout/tagout procedures during maintenance and keep the work area clean to avoid slip hazards. Regular training on emergency shut-off and understanding high-pressure water hazards are vital components of daily safety routines.

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