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Waterjet Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ENTEK Manufacturing LLC

Waterjet Operator

Lebanon, OR

$21.10 - $32.10/hr

What You'll Do As a Waterjet Operator , you'll operate CNC Waterjet cutting equipment to fabricate precision metal components that support ENTEK's manufacturing operations. You'll work closely with ...

ENTEK

Waterjet Operator

Lebanon, OR · On-site

$21.10 - $32.10/hr

What You'll Do As a Waterjet Operator , you'll operate CNC Waterjet cutting equipment to fabricate precision metal components that support ENTEK's manufacturing operations. You'll work closely with ...

Commercial Stainless

CNC Waterjet Operator

Bloomsburg, PA · On-site

$18 - $26/hr

CNC Waterjet Operator - Stainless Steel Fabrication Position Summary: The CNC Waterjet Operator is responsible for setting up, programming, and operating a waterjet cutting machine to precision-cut ...

Corrosion Materials

Waterjet Operator

Baker, LA · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Waterjet Operator primarily operates the waterjet machine tocut alloy sheets and plates according to the given specifications, sketches orshop travelers. Responsibilities and Duties As a minimum ...

Corrosion Materials

Waterjet Operator

Baker, LA

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Waterjet Operator primarily operates the waterjet machine tocut alloy sheets and plates according to the given specifications, sketches orshop travelers. Responsibilities and Duties As a minimum ...

Hadco Metal Trading

Waterjet Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

We are searching for an experienced waterjet operator with some CAD knowledge to be a part of our continued growth. Job Summary: Operate OMAX waterjet to process high quality products. Utilize CAD to ...

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. ROLES ...

WARDJet

Waterjet Operator

Tallmadge, OH

$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 ...

Holtec International

Waterjet Operator 1

Orrville, OH · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Holtec International is seeking a skilled Waterjet Operator to set up and operate waterjet equipment within the Fabrication Department. This role is responsible for producing precision parts by ...

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 ...

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Waterjet Operator information

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$12

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How much do waterjet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for waterjet 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 are Waterjet Operators?

Waterjet Operators are skilled technicians who operate waterjet cutting machines, which use high-pressure streams of water, sometimes mixed with abrasive materials, to cut and shape a variety of materials such as metal, stone, glass, and composites. Their responsibilities include setting up the machine, programming cutting paths, monitoring the cutting process, and ensuring the finished product meets quality specifications. Waterjet Operators often work in manufacturing, fabrication, and custom design industries where precision cutting is required. They must also perform routine maintenance on the equipment and adhere to safety protocols. Attention to detail and mechanical aptitude are important skills for this role.

What is the difference between Waterjet Operator vs CNC Machinist?

AspectWaterjet OperatorCNC Machinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical certification or associate degree
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or fabrication shops, operating waterjet cutting machinesMachine shops, manufacturing facilities, operating CNC machines
Industry UsageFabrication, aerospace, automotive, signagePrecision manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, tooling
Common Search/ComparisonWaterjet Operator vs CNC Machinist

While both roles involve operating manufacturing equipment, Waterjet Operators focus on using waterjet cutting machines to precisely cut materials, often requiring less formal education. CNC Machinists operate computer-controlled machines for complex machining tasks, typically needing technical certifications. Both roles are vital in manufacturing industries but differ in tools, skills, and complexity.

What are some common challenges Waterjet Operators face, and how can they be managed on the job?

Waterjet Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise tolerances, selecting the correct abrasive material, and troubleshooting machine issues. Managing these requires strong attention to detail, understanding machine maintenance schedules, and clear communication with engineers or supervisors about material specifications. Operators can mitigate errors by closely following setup procedures, performing regular equipment checks, and staying updated on software or technology changes relevant to waterjet cutting. Team collaboration and ongoing training are also key to overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Waterjet Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by technical or vocational training. Proficiency in using CNC waterjet cutting machines, CAD/CAM software, and basic measurement tools is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure precision, safety, and efficiency in producing high-quality, custom parts in manufacturing environments.
More about Waterjet Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Waterjet Operator jobs? Cities with the most Waterjet Operator job openings:
What states have the most Waterjet Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Waterjet Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Waterjet Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Waterjet Operator jobs are:
Waterjet Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waterjet Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Waterjet Operator

Waterjet Operator

ENTEK Manufacturing LLC

Lebanon, OR

$21.10 - $32.10/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Description

Join ENTEK in Lebanon, Oregon
ENTEK is excited to welcome a Waterjet Operator to our team in Lebanon, Oregon. If you enjoy precision manufacturing, operating advanced CNC equipment, and producing high-quality components in a fast-paced fabrication environment, this is an excellent opportunity to grow your career.
What You'll Do
As a Waterjet Operator, you'll operate CNC Waterjet cutting equipment to fabricate precision metal components that support ENTEK's manufacturing operations. You'll work closely with Programming, Engineering, Production, and Quality teams to ensure products meet customer specifications while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and efficiency.


In this role, you will:

  • Operate CNC Waterjet cutting equipment, including Flow and similar Waterjet systems
  • Set up production jobs according to schedules, work instructions, and program requirements
  • Load and unload raw materials using approved material handling equipment
  • Execute cutting programs accurately and efficiently to meet production goals
  • Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, work orders, and manufacturing documentation
  • Monitor machine performance and cut quality throughout production runs
  • Inspect finished parts using precision measuring tools to verify compliance with specifications
  • Sort, label, identify, and stage completed parts for downstream manufacturing operations
  • Perform machine setup verification and material alignment activities
  • Make routine machine adjustments to maintain production quality and efficiency
  • Perform basic preventative maintenance and routine equipment cleaning
  • Maintain accurate production records and documentation
  • Troubleshoot minor equipment and process issues
  • Collaborate with Waterjet Programmers to improve production efficiency and program performance
  • Assist with inventory control and material tracking activities
  • Support Lean Manufacturing initiatives including 5S, Kaizen events, and continuous improvement projects
  • Assist with training new operators and supporting workflow continuity
  • Follow all company safety policies, PPE requirements, and standard operating procedures

Requirements

What We're Looking For
We're seeking a dependable manufacturing professional with strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a commitment to producing high-quality work in a team-oriented environment.


Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • One (1) year of CNC machining, manufacturing, or industrial production experience preferred
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and manufacturing documentation
  • Basic understanding of CNC machine operation and manufacturing processes
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
  • Ability to perform quality inspections using precision measuring equipment
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality standards
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong organizational and time-management abilities
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience operating Flow or similar CNC Waterjet systems
  • Experience with laser cutting or sheet metal fabrication
  • Experience utilizing precision measuring equipment
  • Lean Manufacturing and 5S experience
  • Experience supporting production schedules in a manufacturing environment

Your Work Schedule

This is a full-time, non-exempt position. Schedule is shift-dependent and may vary based on production requirements. Flexibility to work assigned shifts and overtime as needed is required.


What Makes ENTEK Different

ENTEK is more than a manufacturing company-we're a team driven by values. Our core DNA is built on:

  • Respect - valuing each person and every contribution
  • Integrity - doing what's right, always
  • Innovation - pushing boundaries with creativity and technology
  • Commitment - to our people, our customers, and our future

When you join ENTEK, you're not just taking a job-you're becoming part of a company that invests in you, your growth, and your success.
Learn more about us at www.entek.com and discover the opportunities waiting for you.
ENTEK is an equal opportunity employer.
ENTEK's locations are non-smoking.

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