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Waterjet Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Experience with waterjet or router machines. * Forklift operation experience. Why Work Here? Enjoy a shift premium, with $1 extra for the 2nd shift and $2 for the 3rd shift. Work in a supportive and ...

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 ...

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 ...

Laser Operator, 3rd Shift

Greenfield, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Laser Operator (3rd Shift) Job Overview: A Machine Operator II for Bastian Automation will be ... waterjet, press brake, CNC milling machine, CNC lathe, and turret punch. Other duties to include ...

Rough Cut Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$17.15 - $22.66/hr

Operate the machinery (Waterjet/Combi-Cut, saw) as well as monitor and verify it is operating correctly at all times * Perform quality checks as required * Interpret blueprint drawings and sketches ...

Operate the machinery (Waterjet/Combi-Cut, saw) as well as monitor and verify it is operating correctly at all times * Perform quality checks as required * Interpret blueprint drawings and sketches ...

Waterjet Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do waterjet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for waterjet operator in Indiana is $17.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 job categories do people searching Waterjet Operator jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Waterjet Operator jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Waterjet Operator job openings in Indiana as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 18% Internship, 67% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Nights, and 12% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,995 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Bastian Solutions

Greenfield, IN • On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Machine Operator
Job Overview:
A Machine Operator I for Bastian Automation will be responsible for operation of machinery used to aid in the production of parts for material handling equipment projects. The main emphasis for this position is machine operation of 3-4 of the following machines including, but not limited to laser, waterjet, press brake, CNC milling machine, CNC lathe, and turret punch. Other duties to include general parts cleaning as well as general repair and maintenance of Bastian Automation' equipment. A Machine Operator will be responsible for maintaining tolerances and dimensions specified by an individual print. A Machine Operator II will have 5-7 years' experience in operating machinery at Bastian Automation or be proficient in machine CNC programming in addition to operation.
Shift:
  • 1st shift

Job Functions:
  • With little guidance ability to operate CNC machinery to produce high quality fabricated parts from engineering drawings.
  • With little guidance works from sketches/drawings to produce parts from sheet metal, plate and bar stock
  • Keep workspace in a neat and organized order
  • Show mutual respect for coworkers
  • Show up to work every day on time
  • Maintain a positive attitude
  • Overtime required when necessary.
  • Follow safety protocols per JSA (Job Safety Analysis).
  • Set a positive example and provide direction/support for Machine Operator I(s)
  • Provide redlines to engineering detailing corrections that needs to be made to prints
  • Ability to program machine CNC utilizing provided nesting and CAM software.

Travel Requirements:
  • This job does not require travel

Required Qualifications and Preferred Skills:
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings and develop finished product from these plans.
  • Relevant fabrication shop experience.
  • Positive attitude, able to handle tense situations that arise
  • Team player, able to take direction.
  • Ability to read a tape measure and other calibrated measuring devices

About Bastian Automation:
Bastian is a trusted material handling automation integrator supporting distribution and manufacturing operations across the automotive, aerospace, tire and wheel, and other related industries - helping them work smarter, scale faster, and deliver with confidence.
In addition to exciting work at a growing company, we offer the following benefits:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with a company match
  • Vacation / Holiday Pay
  • Paid Volunteer time off
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Professional Associations, Conferences and Subscriptions
  • Company Meetings & Events

Bastian Automation does not work with outside recruiting agencies. No solicitation phone calls please.