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Waterjet Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Visioneering, Inc.

Waterjet Operator V

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Waterjet Operator Team: Fabrication Reports to: Fabrication Manager Summary of Position: A Water Jet Operator in aerospace manufacturing is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring ...

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GDIT

WaterJet Operator

Pawcatuck, CT · On-site

$23.80 - $32.20/hr

Operating the OMAX WaterJet to cut and fabricate precision parts and assemblies.Job Duties and Responsibilities: * Coordinating daily work with department supervisor * Responsible for programing, set ...

EBM Construction Inc

CNC Plasma/Waterjet Operator

Norfolk, NE · On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Life insurance * and more 1. General Summary of the Position The CNC Plasma/Waterjet Operator position is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining various types of machinery, including ...

EBM

CNC Plasma/Waterjet Operator

Norfolk, NE · On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Life insurance * and more 1. General Summary of the Position The CNC Plasma/Waterjet Operator position is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining various types of machinery, including ...

Apply Early

EBM Construction Inc

CNC Plasma/Waterjet Operator

Norfolk, NE · On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Life insurance * and more 1. General Summary of the Position The CNC Plasma/Waterjet Operator position is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining various types of machinery, including ...

AIDT

Waterjet Operators

Anniston, AL

$18 - $22/hr

Waterjet Operator Wages: $18 - $22/hour At API, we recognize the critical role packaging plays in protecting products, improving storage efficiency, and supporting our customers' brands. Our ...

Hubbell Incorporated

CNC Waterjet Operator

Carson, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.80/hr

Job Overview The CNC Waterjet Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of CNC waterjet cutting equipment to shape cut various materials with accuracy and efficiency. Pay Rate: $19 ...

Hubbell Incorporated

CNC Waterjet Operator

Carson, CA · On-site

$25.80/hr

Job Overview The CNC Waterjet Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of CNC waterjet cutting equipment to shape cut various materials with accuracy and efficiency. Pay Rate: $19 ...

Hubbell Incorporated

CNC Waterjet Operator

Carson, CA

$19.25 - $25.80/hr

Job Overview The CNC Waterjet Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of CNC waterjet cutting equipment to shape cut various materials with accuracy and efficiency. Pay Rate: $19 ...

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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 Jun 30, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, and 59% Part Time. Highlights an 33% Physical, and 67% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
WaterJet Operator

WaterJet Operator

General Dynamics Information Technology

Pawcatuck, CT • On-site

$23.80 - $32.20/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Program, set up, and operate the OMAX WaterJet machine to cut and fabricate precision parts and assemblies.

  • Interpret drawings, manuals, specifications, or sample parts to determine dimensions and tolerances of finished products.

  • Inspect completed work for quality standards and conformance requirements.

General Dynamics Information Technology rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 207 rated it services

Job description

REQ#: RQ222045Public Trust: None Requisition Type: Regular Your Impact

Own your opportunity to support our nation's defense. Make an impact by connecting and securing critical operations across the globe, keeping our country safe and secure.

Job Description
The Water Jet Operator works within the Sheet Metal fabrication shop.Operating the OMAX WaterJet to cut and fabricate precision parts and assemblies.Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Coordinating daily work with department supervisor
  • Responsible for programing, set-up, and operation of waterjet machine
  • Loading & unloading material or finished parts from machine.
  • Interpretation of drawings, manuals, specifications, or sample parts to determine dimensions and tolerances of finished products.
  • Inspection of completed work for quality standards and GDIT conformance requirements.
  • Perform preventative maintenance to upkeep to machine and work area
  • Responsible for the rebuilding or replacement of machine parts as required.
  • Assist in operation of other Shop Machinery.
Qualifications:
  • Experience in CNC metal cutting or machining 1 -3 years
  • AA/AS Degree or equivalent experience
  • Prior sheet metal fabrication skills or relevant experience.
  • Ability to rebuild or replace machine parts as needed
  • Basic knowledge of shop machinery, hand, and power tools
  • Basic reading, writing, and math skills
  • Ability to read blueprints.
  • Ability to work within a small, motivated team
  • Knowledge of precision measuring instruments (i.e.: calipers, micrometers, gages, etc.).
  • Ability to lift 50lbs.
  • Ability to stand for an 8hr shift minimum
  • Must be able to obtain forklift certification
  • US citizenship required
GDIT IS YOUR PLACEAt GDIT, the mission is our purpose, and our people are at the center of everything we do:
  • Growth: AI-powered career tool that identifies career steps and learning opportunities
  • Support: An internal mobility team focused on helping you achieve your career goals
  • Rewards: Comprehensive benefits and wellness packages, 401K with company match, competitive pay and paid time off
  • Flexibility: Full-flex work week to own your priorities at work and at home
  • Community: Award-winning culture of innovation and a military-friendly workplace

OWN YOUR OPPORTUNITY
Explore a career at GDIT and youll find endless opportunities to grow alongside colleagues who share your ambition to deliver your best work.
Work Requirements
Years of Experience

1 + years of related experience

* may vary based on technical training, certification(s), or degree

Certification
Travel Required

None

Citizenship

U.S. Citizenship Required

Salary and Benefit Information

The likely hourly rate for this position is between $23.80 - $32.20. This is not, however, a guarantee of compensation or salary. Rather, salary will be set based on experience, geographic location and possibly contractual requirements and could fall outside of this range.
View information about benefits and our total rewards program.

Our Identity Verification Process

As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during virtual interviews. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud. By proceeding, you authorize the collection, processing, and use of your biometric data for identity verification and security purposes.

About Our Work

We are GDIT. A global technology and professional services company that delivers technology and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense and intelligence community. Our 26,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. We operate across over 50 countries worldwide, offering leading capabilities in digital modernization, AI/ML, cloud, cyber and application development. Together with our customers, we strive to create a safer, smarter world by harnessing the power of deep expertise and advanced technology.

Join our Talent Community to stay up to date on our career opportunities and events at gdit.com/tc.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

What General Dynamics Information Technology employees say

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About General Dynamics Information Technology

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

GDIT is a global technology and professional services company that delivers technology solutions and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense, and intelligence community. Its 30,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. The company operates across 50+ countries worldwide, offering leading capabilities in digital modernization, AI/ML, cloud, cyber, and application development.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

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