1

Waterjet Machine Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

CNC Milling Machinist

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

... waterjet, and laser cutting, has an opportunity for an experienced milling machinist to contribute ... Reporting to the president, the milling machinist will be responsible for setting up and operating ...

... to and including operating machine shop equipment. * Communication: Synthesize and present ... EDM, waterjet, and milling * Collaboration: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills ...

... to and including operating machine shop equipment. * Communication: Synthesize and present ... EDM, waterjet, and milling * Collaboration: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills ...

... to and including operating machine shop equipment. * Communication: Synthesize and present ... EDM, waterjet, and milling * Collaboration: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills ...

Waterjet Machine Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do waterjet machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for waterjet machine operator in Wisconsin is $18.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $19.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Waterjet Machine Operator vs CNC Machinist?

AspectWaterjet Machine OperatorCNC Machinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training or certification
Work EnvironmentManufacturing shops, fabrication facilitiesMachine shops, manufacturing plants
Job DutiesOperate waterjet cutting machines, set up materialsProgram, operate, and maintain CNC machines
Industry UsageMetal, stone, glass cutting industriesMetalworking, aerospace, automotive industries

While both roles involve operating precision machinery in manufacturing settings, Waterjet Machine Operators focus on waterjet cutting processes, whereas CNC Machinists program and operate computer-controlled machines. Both require technical skills, but CNC Machinists often need more advanced training or certifications. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role based on skills and industry focus.

What does a Waterjet Machine Operator do?

A Waterjet Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining waterjet cutting machines that use high-pressure streams of water, sometimes mixed with abrasives, to cut materials such as metal, stone, glass, or composites. These operators read blueprints or instructions to ensure precise cuts, monitor machine performance, and make adjustments as needed to maintain quality and safety. They also perform routine maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure the finished products meet required specifications. Attention to detail and mechanical aptitude are important skills for this role.

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

To thrive as a Waterjet Machine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience in manufacturing or machining, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with CNC programming, CAD/CAM software, precision measurement tools, and safety protocols is essential. Problem-solving, time management, and teamwork are key soft skills that set top operators apart. These skills ensure precise, efficient production and maintain safety and quality standards in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Waterjet Machine Operators and how can they be addressed?

Waterjet Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise tolerances, troubleshooting equipment issues, and managing abrasive wear on machine components. Staying proactive with regular maintenance, closely monitoring cutting parameters, and collaborating with maintenance teams can help minimize downtime. Additionally, effective communication with engineers and other team members ensures that project specifications are met accurately and efficiently.
What are popular job titles related to Waterjet Machine Operator jobs in Wisconsin? For Waterjet Machine Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

CNC Milling Machinist

SMS

Green Bay, WI • On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 hours ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.


Job description

Milling Machinist

Reputable, well-respected and trusted welding and machine shop in business for 25 years, and specializing in precision machining, fabrication, welding, waterjet, and laser cutting, has an opportunity for an experienced milling machinist to contribute to the success of our organization. We take on the challenging, tight-tolerance work that demands real skill, and we build teams of people who take pride in that.


Reporting to the president, the milling machinist will be responsible for setting up and operating manual and CNC milling equipment to produce precision components for a wide range of industrial customers. Our machinists work in a clean, climate-controlled shop on well-maintained equipment, and they're rewarded for it competitive pay, a profit-sharing incentive program , and a company that puts employees and their families first.


Essential responsibilities


Set up and operate manual and CNC vertical/horizontal milling machines to produce parts per print.

Select and install appropriate tooling, work holding, speeds, and feeds for each job.

Write or make basic CNC programs (Mazatrol) for new setups; modify existing programs as needed.

Perform first-article setup approval before running production quantities.

Run multi-operation jobs requiring multiple setups, fixtures, or datum shifts.


Quality & Inspection

  • Read and interpret mechanical drawings, GD&T callouts, and work orders with full proficiency.
  • Inspect parts using precision instruments.
  • Perform in-process checks to catch deviations before they become scrap.
  • Execute deburring and finishing operations to meet surface finish requirements.
  • Document inspection results and communicate non-conformances to the supervisor promptly.


Troubleshooting & Problem Solving

  • Diagnose and resolve machining issues, chatter, tool wear, dimensional drift, and surface finish problems.
  • Make real-time adjustments to toolpaths, offsets, and setups to maintain tolerance compliance.
  • Collaborate with teammates and supervisors to find solutions on challenging or first-run parts.


Maintenance & Safety

  • Perform routine preventative maintenance on milling equipment to minimize downtime.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation at all times.
  • Follow all shop safety protocols including PPE, machine guarding, and lockout/tagout procedures.
  • Report equipment issues or wear patterns before they become failures.


Essential Qualifications

  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical blueprints and GD&T without assistance
  • Proficiency with precision measuring instruments: micrometers, calipers, indicators
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing work right the first time
  • Physically capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and standing for extended periods
  • Dependable, team-oriented, and motivated to grow


Preferred

  • 2+ years of milling experience in a job shop or manufacturing environment
  • CNC milling experience — setup, operation, and basic program editing
  • Familiarity with Mazak, or similar CNC machining centers
  • Experience with multi-axis milling or complex fixture
  • Machinist training, vocational certification, or apprenticeship program completion

What Makes This Role Stand Out

No two weeks are the same. You'll work on a wide variety of parts, materials, and customer applications. That variety keeps skilled machinists sharp and engaged. Add in a clean, climate-controlled environment, a Monday–Friday schedule, and a team that genuinely cares about doing good work, and this is the kind of shop that serious machinists don't want to leave.


Benefits

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Short and long-term disability
  • 401(k)
  • PTO
  • Competitive pay
  • Annual profit-sharing bonus
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Paid lunch break
  • Clean, fully climate-controlled shop


Work Location: In person