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Waterjet Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Janicki Industries

Waterjet Operator

Sedro Woolley, WA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION Waterjet Operator will work according to supervisor's direction ... Programs and operates Waterjet Cutting machines used to cut panels to various design specifications.

RMS Energy

Machine Operator

Jackson, MS · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Machine operators will work closely with other members of the shop to ensure the completion of ... Operate a variety of shop equipment, including waterjet, plasma, laser, press brake, plate roll ...

RMS ENERGY

Machine Operator

Jackson, MS · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Machine operators will work closely with other members of the shop to ensure the completion of ... Operate a variety of shop equipment, including waterjet, plasma, laser, press brake, plate roll ...

Bastian Solutions

Machine Operator

Greenfield, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Machine Operator Job Overview: A Machine Operator I for Bastian Automation will be responsible for ... waterjet, press brake, CNC milling machine, CNC lathe, and turret punch. Other duties to include ...

Toyota

Machine Operator

Greenfield, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Machine Operator Job Overview: A Machine Operator I for Bastian Automation will be responsible for ... waterjet, press brake, CNC milling machine, CNC lathe, and turret punch. Other duties to include ...

Bastian Solutions

Machine Operator

Greenfield, IN

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Machine Operator Job Overview: A Machine Operator I for Bastian Automation will be responsible for ... waterjet, press brake, CNC milling machine, CNC lathe, and turret punch. Other duties to include ...

WARDJet

Waterjet Operator

Tallmadge, OH · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

M-F 7:30-4:30 Position entails loading and unloading material onto waterjet cutting machine using overhead crane or forklift, loading correct CNC program file on PC Based controller and cutting parts ...

Wardjet

Waterjet Operator

Tallmadge, OH · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

M-F 7:30-4:30 Position entails loading and unloading material onto waterjet cutting machine using overhead crane or forklift, loading correct CNC program file on PC Based controller and cutting parts ...

LTC

Waterjet Operator - 1st and 2nd Shift

Wichita, KS · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Waterjet Operator 1stShift: Monday-Thursday 6:00am-3:30pm, Friday 6:00am-10:00am 2nd Shift: Monday ... Monitor CNC machine operation * Read and understand verbal and written work orders * Follow ...

TRI TECHNOLOGIES INC

Machine Operator

Mount Vernon, NY

$16 - $25/hr

We seek experienced individuals to setup and operate the following CNC Lathes, CNC Mills, WaterJet ... The ability to operate a CNC machining center for operator employment. The ability to fix minor ...

TRI TECHNOLOGIES INC

Machine Operator

Mount Vernon, NY

$16 - $25/hr

We seek experienced individuals to setup and operate the following CNC Lathes, CNC Mills, WaterJet ... The ability to operate a CNC machining center for operator employment. The ability to fix minor ...

TRI TECHNOLOGIES INC

Machine Operator

Mount Vernon, NY · On-site

$16 - $25/hr

We seek experienced individuals to setup and operate the following CNC Lathes, CNC Mills, WaterJet ... The ability to operate a CNC machining center for operator employment. The ability to fix minor ...

LGS Technologies

Machine Operator I

Lancaster, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

... waterjet cutting, laser cutting, and CNC machining. We're known as a one-stop shop for top-tier ... Machine Operator- SUMMARY Operates machinery to modify and change the shape and nature of metal ...

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All JobsWaterjet Machine Operator Jobs

Waterjet Machine Operator information

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How much do waterjet machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for waterjet machine operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 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.
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Waterjet Machine Operator jobs near you
WaterJet Operator - 1st shift

WaterJet Operator - 1st shift

Pegasus Northwest Inc

Kent, WA • On-site

$21 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 14 hours ago

Job description

Pegasus Northwest located in Kent, WA is currently looking for an experienced WaterJet Operator to join our team in a fast paced and rewarding environment. We are a company that believes in work-life balance and offer our employee's Health Benefits, 401K, Personal Time, Holiday Pay, On-Site Gym, and Wellness Programs.
Since 1997 Pegasus Northwest, Inc. has built an exceptional reputation of quality and service in the Aerospace Industry by being the premier water jet cutter in the Pacific Northwest. To learn more about us please visit www.pegasusnw.com
We are looking for a person that is positive, energetic, forward-thinking and can be a part of a team.
Water Jet Operator plans and performs a variety of machine operations utilizing numerical control machining centers to cut, shape, or form metal workpieces to specifications. Water jet cut parts in accordance of work orders and instructions. Follow company policies, procedures, produces machined parts by programming, setting up, and operating a computer numerical control (CNC) machine. Maintains quality and safety standards, keeps records and maintains equipment and supplies.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Inspect your machine for cleanliness, worn / broken parts
  • Review Tie-in before proceeding
  • Review work order, verify everything is filled out correctly before proceeding
  • Arrange the machine & Inspect the following: nozzle size, nozzle perpendicularity, table set-up, abrasive hopper and metering disk flow rate, mtl levelness
  • Sets-up adjusting nozzle and abrasive metering disk, space heads equally per program instructions, enter correct cutter offsets
  • Programs controller by entering instructions, including zero and reference points; setting tool registers, offsets, compensation, calculating requirements, including basic math, geometry, proving part programs
  • Pull material per work instructions, verify quantity, material type, record lot/batch numbers and THICKNESS
  • Square material to machines axis, create part program zero
  • Look for improvements for cutting faster, material yields, and or foreseen concerns
  • Ensure timely preparation and availability of all production materials to avoid shortage during production
  • Maintains specifications by inspecting parts, adjusting feeds and speeds, cutter compensation, maintaining Z-height throughout the entire process, adhering to quality assurance procedures and processes
  • Documents actual parts cut, rejects, segregates questionable parts, fills out work order complete before moving to next operation
  • Visually inspects the pump and machine for signs of leaks, tares, broken parts, etc. before operating and cutting first part
  • Strictly adhere to bid speed and work order specifications and ensure good quality work
  • Inspect first part for accuracy i.e. edge quality, dimensions, etc. before taking part to QA, lead / supervisor
  • Adhere to sampling plans, perform random part sampling on your own accord
  • Troubleshoot machine problems to determine actual faults before calling maintenance or lead / supervisor
  • Report to supervisor(s) regularly, keeping them updated on production activities and progress e.g. shortage of material, better nesting opportunities, RISKS, etc.
  • Maintains safe operations by adhering to safety procedures and regulations
  • Maintains continuity among work shifts by documenting and communicating actions, irregularities, and continuing needs.

Skills / Knowledge:
  • Experience with waterjet machines and software is preferred but not required. TRAINING PROVIDED!
  • Excellent English communication skills
  • Have good computer skills
  • Ability to multi-task in a dynamic, fast-moving environment
  • Ability to work independently and prioritize responsibilities
  • Must be a team player with a positive and professional disposition
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time, ability to bend and squat throughout an 8-hour shift

We are an equal employment opportunity employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Pay Range: $21 - $26 per hour

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