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Waterjet Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

At KMT Waterjet, a Shape Technologies Group (SHAPE) company, we're devoted to a single goal ... Proficiency in basic Engineering and Procurement principles within a Lean manufacturing environment.

CNC Programmer

Palm Bay, FL · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Apply advanced CNC programming experience to complex, close-tolerance parts using equipment such as mills, lathes, mill-turn machines, EDMs, Prima/Laserdyne fiber laser, Flow waterjet, and automation ...

CNC Programmer

Palm Bay, FL

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Apply advanced CNC programming experience to complex, close-tolerance parts using equipment such as mills, lathes, mill-turn machines, EDMs, Prima/Laserdyne fiber laser, Flow waterjet, and automation ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Rockaway, NJ · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Waterjet & Fabrication: Lead the optimization of waterjet cutting processes, including nesting ... Support Design Engineering with specialized work holding on complex forged geometries. Required ...

Waterjet

South Bend, IN · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

We are hiring a 3rd shift Waterjet Operator. Pay $24-$29 per hour plus $2 shift premium Key ... May have working knowledge of programming CNC machines to ensure proper calculations, parameters ...

Waterjet

Wallingford, CT · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Waterjet Operator - Metals Location: Wallingford, CT Schedule: Monday-Friday, 3rd Shift Pay: $26 ... May apply working knowledge of CNC programming to meet specific parameters and calculations. * Work ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Rockaway, NJ · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Waterjet & Fabrication: Lead the optimization of waterjet cutting processes, including nesting ... Support Design Engineering with specialized work holding on complex forged geometries. Required ...

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Waterjet Programmer information

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How much do waterjet programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for waterjet programmer in the United States is $39.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $51.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Waterjet Programmer job?

A Waterjet Programmer is responsible for creating and optimizing CNC programs for waterjet cutting machines. They use CAD/CAM software to design cutting paths based on material type, thickness, and project specifications. Additionally, they ensure efficient material usage, troubleshoot programming issues, and collaborate with machinists to achieve precision cuts. This role requires knowledge of CNC programming, machine operations, and material properties to maximize efficiency and quality.

What are some typical challenges a Waterjet Programmer may face on the job?

Waterjet Programmers commonly encounter challenges such as optimizing cutting paths to minimize material waste, accommodating tight project timelines, and adjusting programs for different materials and thicknesses. They must also troubleshoot issues such as machine calibration errors, inconsistent water pressure, or unexpected tool wear. Coordinating with engineers, machine operators, and quality assurance staff is crucial to ensure specifications are met consistently. Overcoming these challenges requires technical knowledge, adaptability, and strong teamwork, while offering great opportunities to build problem-solving skills and advance in manufacturing roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Waterjet Programmer position, and why are they important?

A Waterjet Programmer needs strong mechanical aptitude, proficiency in CAD/CAM software, and experience programming CNC waterjet machines, often supported by vocational training or technical certifications. Familiarity with tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and specialized waterjet programming software such as FlowMaster or IGEMS is essential, along with understanding of material properties and machining processes. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are valued soft skills for collaborating with production teams and ensuring precision. These abilities are crucial for producing quality parts efficiently, minimizing waste, and ensuring safety in a manufacturing environment.

More about Waterjet Programmer jobs
What cities are hiring for Waterjet Programmer jobs? Cities with the most Waterjet Programmer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Waterjet Programmer jobs? The most popular types of Waterjet Programmer jobs are:
What states have the most Waterjet Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Waterjet Programmer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Waterjet Programmer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Waterjet Programmer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Waterjet Programmer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,234 per year, or $39.5 per hour.
Waterjet Operator (Alternate Schedule/Hours)

Waterjet Operator (Alternate Schedule/Hours)

Element Materials Technology

Huntington Beach, CA

$24 - $28/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Element Materials Technology rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Waterjet Operator (Alternate Schedule/Hours)
Job Locations US-CA-Huntington Beach
ID 2026-19103
Overview

Element has an opportunity for a Waterjet Operator (Alternate Schedule/Hours). In this role you will be a member of the operations team in Huntington Beach. The Machining position performs a variety of routine and non-routine machining assignments within the department assigned and insures timely and accurate test results under direct supervision. The technician positions must be proficient in a number of core business skills including but not limited to compliance to established safety rules, code of conduct, and company policies and procedures.

Salary: $24- $28/hr DoE + $2.00 Alternate Schedule Differential

Schedule: Wed-Fri 10:00am-6:30pm | Sat-Sun 6:00am-2:30pm

Responsibilities
    Work hours: Flexible to work both 1st and 2nd shift
  • Use Omax waterjet to prepare specimens for testing as dictated in customer specifications
  • Maintain equipment and schedules preventative maintenance
  • Follow guidance from Department Manager, Machinist / Senior Machinist co-workers
  • Gathers and records dimensions in accordance with quality assurance requirements
  • Use blueprints and design sketches to ensure the proper dimensions and tolerance levels of the finished product
Skills / Qualifications
  • Diploma or GED certificate preferred with college or vocational school coursework welcomed
  • Some college level courses completed and / or a minimum of 2 years' experience in a machine shop environment; may have earned Associate degree mechanical related field
  • Understanding of machining concepts
  • Basic understanding of machining concepts, measuring instruments and dimensional concepts
  • Working knowledge of machine shop safety protocol
  • Strong computer skills and basic mathematical skills with the ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry a plus
  • Ability to lift <50 lbs. often and >50 lbs. on occasion and stand on feet for long periods of time
  • Ability to work alone the majority of the work day; only requesting assistance for clarification or confirmation of machining procedures
  • Understand what must be completed each work day and takes the initiative to complete those tasks properly and timely
  • Ability to machine specimens from initial set up to completion
  • Ability to understand and carry out basic machining methods
  • Prior knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within the machining field
  • Proven ability to set up and performs a variety of machining processes according to customer specifications under minimal supervision and technical input of Senior Principal Machinist

NOTE: This position requires access to export-controlled commodities, technical data, technology, software, and services. U.S. citizenship, U.S. legal permanent resident status, protected person status under 8 U.S.C. * 1324b(a)(3), or U.S. Government export authorization is required. Any offer of employment is contingent upon the employer obtaining the necessary export authorization, including, if required, an export license from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security, the U.S. Department of State's Directorate of Defense Trade Controls, or other applicable government agency.

Company Overview

Element is one of the fastest growing testing, inspection and certification businesses in the world. Globally we have more than 9,000 brilliant minds operating from 270 sites across 30 countries. Together we share an ambitious purpose to 'Make tomorrow safer than today'.

When failure in use is not an option, we help customers make certain that their products, materials, processes and services are safe, compliant and fit for purpose. From early R&D, through complex regulatory approvals and into production, our global laboratory network of scientists, engineers, and technologists support customers to achieve assurance over product quality, sustainable outcomes, and market access.

While we are proud of our global reach, working at Element feels like being part of a smaller company. We empower you to take charge of your career, and reward excellence and integrity with growth and development.

Industries across the world depend on our care, attention to detail and the absolute accuracy of our work. The role we have to play in creating a safer world is much bigger than our organization.

Diversity Statement

At Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming "the world's most trusted testing partner".

All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

"If you need an accommodation filling out an application, or applying to a job, please email Recruitment@element.com"


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