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Waterjet Machine Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Jacquet

Machine Operators (3rd shift)

Houston, TX · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Laser, Waterjet, and Saw Operators. We offer training, competitive pay, and a comprehensive ... The machine operator is responsible for the safe operation, maintenance, and cutting of stainless ...

Jacquet

Machine Operators (3rd shift)

Houston, TX · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Laser, Waterjet, and Saw Operators. We offer training, competitive pay, and a comprehensive ... The machine operator is responsible for the safe operation, maintenance, and cutting of stainless ...

General Plastics & Composites

Machinist 2

Houston, TX · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Perform machine set ups on manual lathes, CNC lathes, CNC mills, and Waterjet machines for all ... Train all incoming Operators and Set Up Technicians. * Thorough knowledge of the following elements ...

GP&C

Machinist 2 (Ledbetter Location)

Houston, TX · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Adhere to all engineering instructions, standard operating procedures, and departmental procedures. * Perform machine set-ups on manual lathes, CNC lathes, CNC mills, and Waterjet machines for all ...

GP&C

Machinist 3 (Ledbetter Location)

Houston, TX · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Adhere to all engineering instructions, standard operating procedures, and departmental procedures. * Perform machine setups on manual lathes, manual mills, CNC lathes, CNC mills, and Waterjet ...

GP&C

Machinist 2

Houston, TX · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Perform machine set ups on manual lathes, CNC lathes, CNC mills, and Waterjet machines for all ... Train all incoming Operators and Set Up Technicians. * Thorough knowledge of the following elements ...

General Plastics & Composites

Machinist 3

Houston, TX

$19 - $25.75/hr

The machinist 3 is a highly skilled, senior-level position responsible for setting up, operating ... Able to perform machine set ups on manual lathes, manual mills, CNC lathes, CNC mills, and Waterjet ...

New

GP&C

Machinist 3

Houston, TX · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

The machinist 3 is a highly skilled, senior-level position responsible for setting up, operating ... Able to perform machine set ups on manual lathes, manual mills, CNC lathes, CNC mills, and Waterjet ...

New

All JobsWaterjet Machine Operator JobsWaterjet Machine Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Waterjet Machine Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do waterjet machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for waterjet machine operator in Houston, TX is $17.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

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 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 are popular job titles related to Waterjet Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX?

For Waterjet Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Waterjet Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Waterjet Machine Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

Waterjet Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waterjet Machine Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,123 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

CNC Machinist (Machinist II) - CNC Mills, Lathes & Waterjet

General Plastics and Composites LP

Houston, TX • On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Set up and operate CNC mills, CNC lathes, manual lathes, and waterjet machines to produce production parts and prototype components.

  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and job routers; load, edit, and adjust CNC programs as needed.

  • Perform in-process and first-article inspections, support assembly operations with precision-machined components, and perform preventative maintenance on machines.

Job description

At a Glance

Company: General Plastics & Composites
Location: Houston, TX (6910 E Orem Dr, Houston, TX 77075)
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: Competitive – based on experience
Shift: Day Shift (6:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Overtime: As needed
Experience Level: Mid-Level
Department: Flex Machining

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Why This Role Exists

This role exists to support continued production demand and engineering-driven work across GP&C’s advanced manufacturing operations.

As a CNC Machinist (Machinist II), you’ll play a key role in producing precision, tight-tolerance components used in mission-critical applications. This position supports both production and prototype work and is ideal for a machinist who enjoys setup work, variety, and working with different materials.

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The Work You’ll Be Doing

In this role, you will:

  • Set up and operate:
    • CNC mills
    • CNC lathes
    • Manual lathes
    • Waterjet machines
  • Machine production parts and engineering / prototype components
  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and job routers
  • Load, edit, and adjust CNC programs as needed
  • Select tooling, offsets, and workholding
  • Perform in-process and first-article inspections
  • Support assembly operations with precision-machined components
  • Perform preventative maintenance per PM schedules
  • Inspect machines for wear, damage, and safety concerns
  • Train incoming CNC Operators and Setup Technicians
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
  • Follow all engineering instructions, SOPs, and safety procedures

This role offers a strong mix of hands-on machining, setup responsibility, and technical growth.

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Machines, Controls & Software

Machines:

  • CNC Mills
  • CNC Lathes
  • Manual Lathes
  • Waterjet Systems

Controls / Programming:

  • CNC program editing and basic program creation

Inspection Tools:

  • Micrometers (OD & ID)
  • Calipers
  • Bore gauges
  • Height & micro-height gauges
  • Optical comparator
  • Depth gauges
  • Protractors
  • Mold inspection tools

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What We’re Looking For

Required

  • 5+ years of CNC machining experience
  • Experience with CNC mills and CNC lathes
  • Strong understanding of setups, offsets, and tooling
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and GD&T
  • Comfortable holding tight tolerances
  • Strong math skills and precision measurement ability
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Reliable attendance and strong teamwork skills
  • High school diploma or GED

Preferred (Not Required)

  • CNC programming experience (editing and basic creation)
  • Experience with waterjet machining
  • Experience machining composite materials

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Materials You’ll Work With

  • Plastics
  • Fiberglass composites
  • Metals and alloys

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Why Machinists Like Working Here

Machinists choose General Plastics & Composites because:

  • Clean, organized, professional shop environment
  • Modern CNC machines and tooling
  • High-skill, non-repetitive machining work
  • Stable schedule and steady workload
  • Opportunities to grow into senior machining or programming roles
  • A team culture built on precision, safety, and accountability

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Pay, Benefits & Schedule

  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Full benefits package (medical, dental, vision)
  • 401(k)
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Long-term, stable opportunity

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Interested machinists can apply directly through hireCNC.

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