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Waterjet Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

CACI International, Inc.

Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$129K/yr

... operating CNC milling and lathe machines (5 years of experience with a bachelor's degree ... Experience with waterjet and laser cutting. This position is contingent on funding and may not be ...

CACI International, Inc.

Machinist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$61K - $129K/yr

... operating CNC milling and lathe machines (5 years of experience with a bachelor's degree ... Experience with waterjet and laser cutting. This position is contingent on funding and may not be ...

All JobsWaterjet Operator JobsWaterjet Operator Jobs in Washington

Waterjet Operator information

See Washington salary details

$13

$20

$26

How much do waterjet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for waterjet operator in Washington is $20.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $22.07 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.
What are popular job titles related to Waterjet Operator jobs in Washington? For Waterjet Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Waterjet Operator jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Waterjet Operator jobs in Washington are:
Waterjet Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waterjet Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,842 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager and Makerspace Technician

Howard University

Washington, DC • On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Howard University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

156th of 616 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.
At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.
Here is what we offer:
  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
  • Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
  • Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
  • Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
  • Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!
https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Job Title: Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager/CEA Makerspace Technician
Primary Department: Mechanical Engineering
Job Summary: The Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager/Makerspace Technician oversees the management, maintenance, and safe operation of all departmental laboratory facilities, including machine shops, instructional spaces, and the CEA makerspace. Major responsibilities include:
  • Provide technical support for laboratory instruction, research activities, student projects, and makerspace operations.
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards, facilitate equipment procurement and repairs, and supervise student assistants and student use of facilities.
  • Collaborate with faculty to prepare, set up, and deliver laboratory courses.
  • Conduct routine maintenance, calibrations, and inspections of facilities and equipment.
  • Operate, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance on specialized equipment, including CNC machines, 3D printers, wind tunnels, and material testing; provide consultations on machining techniques and CAD/CAM programming.
  • Manage the departmental machine shop and the makerspace lab, overseeing student design and building activities using manufacturing tools.
  • Provide comprehensive training and certification to students, faculty, and staff on the safe operation of CEA makerspace and machine shop equipment.
  • Assist in the assessment and analysis of space, equipment needs, and requirements.

Core Competencies:
  • Advanced knowledge of machine shop operations, including materials processing and the use of precision tools to fabricate parts.
  • Proficiency in operating and maintaining fabrication equipment, such as CNC machines, lathes, mills, grinders, 3D printers, waterjet cutting tools, laser cutting machines, welding stations, and other general machining tools.
  • Knowledge in using CAD/CAM software in design, technical drawing, and engineering principles relevant to mechanical systems and additive/subtractive manufacturing processes.
  • Strong understanding of laboratory and makerspace safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and risk management in educational and research settings.
  • Skill in operating computers, related software applications (e.g., Autodesk Fusion, Microsoft Office suite, inventory management systems), and office equipment.
  • Expertise in providing hands-on training and supervision in a makerspace environment, including user certification and troubleshooting for design and prototyping activities.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with a diverse population, including faculty, students, and external stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field, with 2-5 years of relevant experience in laboratory management, machine shop operations, or equipment maintenance. Alternatively, 10 years of progressively responsible related work experience may be substituted for educational qualifications.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure
$90,000-$100,000

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