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Waterjet Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EBM Construction Inc

CNC Plasma/Waterjet Operator

Norfolk, NE · On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

CNC Plasma/Waterjet Operator EBM Manufacturing, an industry leader in the production of bulk handling Agri-industrial equipment and custom screening technology is currently seeking a full-time, ...

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 ...

CUSTOM FOAM PRODUCTS INC

Water Jet Operator

Fort Loramie, OH · On-site

$18.25 - $21.75/hr

Waterjet Operator - 2nd Shift (4-Day Work Week!)Work 4 days a week and get 3 days off - every week.If you're a skilled operator who values precision, consistency, and having a long weekend, this is ...

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How much do waterjet operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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 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.
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Waterjet Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waterjet Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

CNC Plasma/Waterjet Operator

EBM Construction Inc

Norfolk, NE • On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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

Job description

CNC Plasma/Waterjet Operator

EBM Manufacturing, an industry leader in the production of bulk handling Agri-industrial equipment and custom screening technology is currently seeking a full-time, preferably experienced CNC Plasma/Waterjet Operator to join our talented team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining various types of machinery, including CNC plasma cutters, laser cutters, and waterjets, to produce high-quality parts and components according to specifications. This role requires attention to detail, adherence to safety standards, and the ability to work efficiently in a production environment.

EBM Manufacturing offers a full benefit suit including:

  • 401(k) matching
  • Paid time off
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Life insurance
  • and more

The CNC Plasma/Waterjet Operator position is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining various types of machinery, including CNC machines, laser cutters, plasma cutters, and waterjet to produce high-quality parts and components according to specifications. This role requires attention to detail, adherence to safety standards, and the ability to work efficiently in a production environment. This position requires the ability to perform physical labor, material handling, heavy lifting (up-to-90 lbs.) constantly, and the ability to occasionally work in non-controlled environment.

  • Cuts workpiece using CNC machine, powered saws, hand shears or chipping knife.
  • Recognize, set-up and operate tools and equipment for tack-welds or welds components and assemblies, using electric, gas, arc or other welding equipment in flat, vertical or overhead positions.
  • Lays out, positions and secures parts and assemblies according to specifications, using straightedge, combination square, calipers and ruler.
  • Work with precise limits and standards of accuracy.
  • Inspect grooves, angles or gap allowances using micrometer, caliper and precision measuring instruments.
  • Material handling and storage; heavy lifting (50-80 lbs.), pushing, pulling, bending, squatting, walking, forward/above shoulder reaching and balancing for long periods of time and performing strenuous physical labor primarily indoors and occasionally under non-environmentally controlled shop conditions. No travel required.
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
  • Punctual and regular attendance at assigned job location is an essential function of this position.
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings and models.
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio and percent and to read and interpret metal rules. Recognize the importance of being exact or accurate.
  • Ability to safely operate fabrication and machine shop machinery and equipment.
  • Recognize, set up and operate hand and power tools common to the welding trade.
  • Locate and mark workpiece bending and cutting lines, allowing for stock thickness, machine and welding shrinkage and other component specifications.
  • Ability to safely move parts into position, manually or with hoists or cranes.
  • Align and fit parts according to specifications, using jacks, turnbuckles, wedges, drift pins, pry bars and hammers.
  • Ability to weld separately or in combination, using aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron and other alloys.
  • Skilled mechanically and able to inspect and perform minor machine maintenance such as oiling machines, dies or workpieces. Perform burning work.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team to complete daily activities according to work schedules.
  • Load or unload bundles, equipment or materials to/from trucks; move bundles, equipment or materials to storage or work areas using material handling equipment.
  • Willingness and ability to perform manual work following verbal and written instructions
  • High school diploma or GED required; vocational or college training preferred.
  • Three or more years of related work experience is preferred.
  • Ability to read, write, and speak English required; bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.
  • Regularly works near moving mechanical parts and in shop conditions that include heat and humidity. Occasionally exposed to risk of electric shock.
  • Regularly works near moving mechanical parts.
  • Use of required protective equipment (safe work attire, hard hats, steel-toed shoes, glasses, gloves, hearing protection).
  • Noise level is generally loud.
  • Ability to remain calm and effective in high-stress situations.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Successful completion of pre-employment work-style survey, PPPO, physical exam, and drug screening.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Class A CDL preferred

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