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Waterjet Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

StandardAero

Machinist - WaterJet Operator

Hillsboro, OH · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Adjusts and sets up machine tools for use by machining tool operators. * Participates in continuous ... WaterJet experience a plus. * Attainment of trade certification. Benefits that make life better:

StandardAero

Machinist - WaterJet Operator

Hillsboro, OH

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Adjusts and sets up machine tools for use by machining tool operators. * Participates in continuous ... WaterJet experience a plus. * Attainment of trade certification. Benefits that make life better:

thyssenkrupp

Waterjet Operator 2nd shift

Brook Park, MN · On-site

$26.44/hr

We are hiring a Waterjet Operator on 2nd shift. Pay $26.44 per hour Key Accountabilities: * Performs precision tool machining operations through monitoring feed rates, speed, and special instruments.

thyssenkrupp

Waterjet Operator- 3rd Shift

Wallingford, CT · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Waterjet Operator - Metals Location: Wallingford, CT Schedule: Monday-Friday, 3rd Shift Pay: $26-$30 per hour plus $3 shift premium for 3rd shift We're seeking a skilled CNC Operator to work directly ...

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How much do waterjet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 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 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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 19% Internship, 67% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Nights, and 11% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Machinist - WaterJet Operator

Machinist - WaterJet Operator

StandardAero

Hillsboro, OH • On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

StandardAero rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 52 rated aviation services

Job description

Job Description
Build an Aviation Career You're Proud Of
At StandardAero, we use our ingenuity and know-how to find solutions for the simple to the most complex challenges in aviation. Together, we get the job done and done well. Our stability, resources, and respectful culture supports you in building a solid career with a great team you can count on day in and day out for the long term.
Specific Accountabilities
  • Reads and interprets specification manuals, blueprints, templates and layouts to determine machining operation to be performed.
  • Computes dimensions and tolerances and measures and lays out work pieces.
  • Verifies dimensions of products for accuracy and conformance to specifications using precision measuring instruments such as calipers, gauges and micrometers. Troubleshoots, debugs and modifies to achieve expected performance.
  • Adjusts and sets up machine tools for use by machining tool operators.
  • Participates in continuous improvement of cell processes.
  • Cross trains in other complementary skills and seeks endorsements for those skills as needed to support production requirements.
  • Moves between production assignments that utilize multiple skills endorsements as needed to support production requirements.
  • Participates in the cross training of other technicians as needed to support production requirements.
  • Responsible for observing all applicable safety requirements and reporting immediately any unsafe practices/conditions.
  • Carries out other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications
  • High degree of mechanical aptitude, accuracy and precision.
  • Thorough knowledge of manufacturing, tool design, fabrication methods and processes, metallurgy and heat treating.
  • Working knowledge of welding, hydraulics, electricity and pneumatics.
  • Proficient in the use of precision measuring instruments and hand tools.
  • Ability to read, understand and interpret blueprints.
  • Strong mathematical aptitude.
  • Working knowledge of related company instructions, company processes, rework process instructions, original equipment manufacturer manuals, and MSDS labels.
  • Working knowledge of production management computer systems and other related internal control systems.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds (unassisted) for approximately 25% of the average work day.
  • Regularly required to stand for prolonged periods.
  • Completion of a machinist apprenticeship program; or equivalent.

Desired Qualifications
  • WaterJet experience a plus.
  • Attainment of trade certification.

Benefits that make life better:
  • Comprehensive Healthcare
  • 401(k) with 100% company match; up to 5% vested
  • Paid Time Off starting on day one
  • Bonus opportunities
  • Health- & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Short- & Long-Term Disability
  • Life & AD&D Insurance
  • Learning & Training opportunities

Background Information
The typical minimum level of education to perform this job competently is equivalent to high school graduation and completion of a diploma training program at a college or technical school. The person requires an ability to understand, utilize and communicate specialized information in speech and written text. This specialized training is often formalized and recognized by a specific certificate, diploma or license.
Directly/indirectly related work experience representing continuous learning and required for someone to perform this job competently is one to three years.
Ongoing work assignments typically have clearly defined goals. The incumbent's education, training, and previous experience ensure work assignments are successfully carried out because he/she understands what is expected, as well as the best approach to take.

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