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Waterjet Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $20-$25 About the Role We're looking for a skilled Bridge Saw Operator to join our ... waterjet cutters, or edge polishing equipment - Familiarity with common fabrication software or ...

Bridge Saw Operator

Clarklake, MI

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

About the Role We're looking for a skilled Bridge Saw Operator to join our countertop fabrication ... waterjet cutters, or edge polishing equipment - Familiarity with common fabrication software or ...

Bridge Saw Operator

Clarklake, MI ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

About the Role We're looking for a skilled Bridge Saw Operator to join our countertop fabrication ... waterjet cutters, or edge polishing equipment - Familiarity with common fabrication software or ...

Be Seen First

Clean waterjet excess material * Glue and polish miters * Run backsplashes through the backsplash ... Competence in operating power tools safely and effectively. The ideal candidate is: * Dependable ...

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Waterjet Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$15

$20

How much do waterjet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for waterjet operator in Michigan is $15.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $16.97 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.
What are popular job titles related to Waterjet Operator jobs in Michigan? For Waterjet Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Waterjet Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Waterjet Operator jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Waterjet Operator job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,970 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Bridge Saw Operator

Willbee Ent.

Clarklake, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Salary: $20-$25

About the Role

We're looking for a skilled Bridge Saw Operator to join our countertop fabrication team. If you take pride in clean cuts, love working with natural stone, and know your way around a bridge saw, we'd love to meet you. This is a hands-on shop role where your precision and craftsmanship directly show up in the finished product that ends up in someone's home or business.

What You'll Do

- Operate a bridge saw to cut granite, marble, quartz, and other natural or engineered stone slabs to customer specifications

- Read and interpret shop drawings, cut sheets, and job templates to ensure accurate dimensions

- Set up and adjust saw blades, water systems, and cutting parameters for different materials and thicknesses

- Inspect slabs for flaws, cracks, or inconsistencies before cutting and flag any issues

- Perform routine maintenance on the bridge saw (blade changes, water filtration checks, calibration)

- Keep your work area clean, safe, and organized wet stone and slab handling require constant attention to safety

- Coordinate with the fabrication team to keep jobs moving on schedule

- Handle and store slabs properly using hoists, A-frames, or other lifting equipment

What We're Looking For

- Hands-on experience operating a bridge saw in a stone fabrication environment

- Ability to read cut sheets and translate measurements into accurate cuts

- Solid understanding of stone material properties how different stones cut, chip, or behave under the blade

- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to quality

- Comfortable working in a shop environment

- Ability to lift and maneuver heavy slabs safely, with or without mechanical assistance

- Team player who communicates well and keeps things moving

- Experience with CNC machines, waterjet cutters, or edge polishing equipment

- Familiarity with common fabrication software or digital templating tools

- OSHA 10 or relevant safety certification

Physical Requirements

- Ability to stand for extended periods and work in a shop environment

- Comfortable lifting 50+ lbs regularly; heavier with team or mechanical assistance

- Fine motor control for precise setups and adjustments

What We Offer

- Competitive pay based on experience

- A collaborative shop team that takes craftsmanship seriously

- Opportunities to grow into more advanced fabrication roles

- Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA Employer Contribution and 401k