Waterjet Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Waterjet Machine Operator (1st & 3rd Shift) - Up to 23.10/hr

Job Description

The Waterjet Machine Operator sets up, operates, and monitors two waterjet machines in an FAA/DOT safety-sensitive environment to support critical aerospace component production and repair. This role uses precision measuring instruments, hand tools, and inspection equipment to ensure accurate set-ups and high-quality output while following established standard operating procedures and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor two waterjet machines to produce and process aerospace components according to specifications and work instructions.
• Secure tools, attachments, fixtures, and hardware on machines using appropriate hand tools to ensure safe and accurate operation.
• Use precision measuring instruments, such as micrometers, calipers, tape measures, and gauges, to verify accuracy of inspection tools, machine set-ups, and finished hardware.
• Inspect parts, gauges, and fixtures to confirm all features are secure, functioning correctly, and meet quality standards.
• Determine and perform necessary adjustments to tooling, machine set-ups, and hardware placement based on inspection results and part measurements.
• Load and unload tooling, hardware, and programs on the machines, ensuring correct configuration for each job.
• Interpret blueprints and production documentation to understand dimensions, tolerances, and machining requirements.
• Perform basic troubleshooting of machine operations and assist with resolving mechanical or set-up issues as needed.
• Handle materials safely, including moving parts and hardware using forklifts, tow motors, or other material handling equipment when required.
• Follow all FAA 145 Repair Station and DOT safety-sensitive requirements, including adherence to random drug and alcohol testing protocols.
• Maintain a clean and organized machine area, including general production and machine shop housekeeping tasks.
• Participate in training on standard operating procedures and apply learned processes consistently in daily work.
• Collaborate with production, machining, and inspection teams to meet quality, safety, and production goals.
• Complete required documentation and inspection records accurately and in a timely manner.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of a high school diploma or GED.
• At least 2+ years of machine operating experience in a production or machining environment.
• Hands-on experience using micrometers and calipers for precision measurement.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and production documentation.
• Proficiency with hand tools for securing tools, fixtures, and hardware on machines.
• Experience with general machine operation such as mills, lathes, or similar equipment.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills related to machine operation.
• Ability to perform accurate measurements using micrometers, calipers, tape measures, and other inspection tools.
• Capability to work safely in a regulated, safety-sensitive environment and comply with random drug and alcohol testing requirements.
• Ability to perform material handling tasks, including operating forklifts or tow motors, as needed.
• Willingness and ability to work assigned 1st or 3rd shift hours and complete day-shift training.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality in a machine shop or production setting.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience operating waterjet machines is highly valued and may support higher compensation.
• Aerospace industry experience, particularly in an FAA 145 Repair Station or similar regulated environment, is preferred.
• Familiarity with Haas or similar CNC equipment and controls is beneficial.
• Experience in a machine shop environment with exposure to mills, lathes, and general machining operations.
• Experience in inspection, set-up, and machining processes within a production or repair setting.
• Comfort working with general production tasks and general labor in support of machining operations.
• Interest in continuing education or tuition-supported coursework related to machining, aerospace, or technical growth.

Why Work Here?

The organization offers a supportive, family-oriented culture where relatives can work together and employees build long-term careers. Team members enjoy comprehensive health benefits with low employee contributions and access to multiple free health clinics, along with a 401(k) plan, paid time off, and a holiday bonus. The facility features an on-site gym and provides tuition assistance for college programs that align with internal growth opportunities, demonstrating a strong commitment to professional development. The company celebrates holidays with special perks and fosters a close-knit, collaborative environment that values work-life balance and long-term stability.

Work Environment

This role is based in an FAA 145 Repair Station waterjet department that supports a major jet engine overhaul program for military aircraft. The environment is a regulated aerospace repair and production setting with a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and adherence to standard operating procedures. Team members work around waterjet machines, general machining equipment, and inspection tools such as micrometers, calipers, gauges, and fixtures, and may use forklifts or tow motors for material handling. Two primary schedules are available: a day shift typically running from 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with a slightly shorter Friday, and a 3rd shift typically running from 5:30 p.m. to 4:30 a.m. with a shorter Friday and a shift differential for nights. All training takes place on day shift, starting with a half-day classroom session and continuing on day hours for approximately the first month, with training length depending on how quickly standard operating procedures are mastered. The facility operates under FAA and DOT safety-sensitive regulations, including random drug and alcohol testing, and maintains a structured, production-focused machine shop environment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Cincinnati, OH.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $22.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Cincinnati,OH.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 3, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.