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Waterjet Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Mfg. engrs - Manufacturing Engineer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, company policies and operating procedures, and ... Waterjet, Laser Cutting, Laser Etch, Wire EDM, Deburr, Mass Finishing, Cleaning, Assembly, and ...

New

Mfg. engrs - Manufacturing Engineer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, company policies and operating procedures, and ... Waterjet, Laser Cutting, Laser Etch, Wire EDM, Deburr, Mass Finishing, Cleaning, Assembly, and ...

New

Mfg. engrs - Manufacturing Engineer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, company policies and operating procedures, and ... Waterjet, Laser Cutting, Laser Etch, Wire EDM, Deburr, Mass Finishing, Cleaning, Assembly, and ...

New

Work directly with machine operators and production personnel to identify, develop, and implement ... Experience with waterjet cutting equipment or similar precision cutting technologies. * G-Code ...

Work directly with machine operators and production personnel to identify, develop, and implement ... Experience with waterjet cutting equipment or similar precision cutting technologies. * G-Code ...

Showing results 21-28

Waterjet Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do waterjet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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 is a waterjet operator?

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 common challenges waterjet operators face, and how can they be managed?

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.
Infographic showing various Waterjet Operator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,995 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Mfg. engrs - Manufacturing Engineer

medplast

Indianapolis, IN

$69K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Description: The primary purpose of this position is to apply engineering principles to drive process improvements in the manufacturing of medical devices to positively affect Quality, Delivery, Cost, Safety and Morale.  We’re looking for someone with a positive attitude and attention to detail who wants to grow professionally with high internal expectations.

Responsibilities

  • Adheres to Viant Core Beliefs and all safety and quality requirements including, but not limited to: Quality Management Systems (QMS), Environmental Management Systems (EMS), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, company policies and operating procedures, and other regulatory requirements.
  • Creates and implements lean processes in a cellular environment utilizing appropriate methods such as CNC Milling, CNC Punch, Punch Press, Waterjet, Laser Cutting, Laser Etch, Wire EDM, Deburr, Mass Finishing, Cleaning, Assembly, and Inspection.
  • Defines, produces and implements documents including standard work and process work instructions.
  • Investigates, develops and implements new process technologies.
  • Successfully communicates complex issues with customers and internal team members.
  • Leads NCR investigation, root cause analysis and corrective & preventative actions.
  • Creates, reviews and approves engineering drawings; initiates and drives the Change Record process. 
  • Creates and evaluates manufacturing operations to maintain accurate standard rates.
  • Identifies and drives process improvements and cost-savings projects through root cause analysis and data driven decision-making.
  • Develop and complete manufacturing documentation (pFMEA, control plan, process flow, work instructions, and inspection plans).
  • Develops tooling, fixtures and equipment to optimize productivity and cost.
  • Supports more experienced engineers on complex projects and initiatives.
  • Effectively owns and manages CAPAs pertaining to their areas of responsibility.
  • Collaborates with programmers, operators and suppliers to evaluate designs for manufacturability and cost reduction.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

 

The successful candidate will:

  • Plan and execute projects on time and within budget to achieve tangible results.
  • Participates in cross-functional project teams to implement creative solutions.
  • Ensure internal Viant and external customer expectations are met or exceeded.

Education/Certification

Candidate shall have at least one of the following: 1) Engineering or Bachelor’s degree in a technical field with applicable experience, 2) 20 plus years of applicable experience, or 3) Associate’s degree with 15 plus years of applicable experience.

Experience

3 – 7 years of applicable engineering experience

Skills/Competencies

  • Strong problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to provide solid rational and justification for process improvement change requests
  • Lean manufacturing and new product development or launch support experience is highly desirable. 
  • Understanding of sheet metal manufacturing preferred.
  • 2D and 3D drawing experience required.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Experience in medical device is preferred.

 

Physical Requirements

Light work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects.

Travel:  Limited travel may be required

Equipment used: Computer with Windows® Operating System and AutoCAD & SolidWorks

Work Conditions: Worker is not exposed to adverse environmental conditions.

Position location: 100% On-site, Indianapolis, Indiana