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Waterjet Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

EPSILON SYSTEMS

Marine Mechanic-Level III

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Hamilton Waterjet Model HJ292 * Hamilton Waterjet Model HM651 * Twin Disc Marine Gear Transmission * Westerbeke 33KW EDE D-NET Generator Minimum Qualifications: * Must have a high school diploma or ...

EPSILON SYSTEMS

Marine Mechanic-Level III

Hampton, VA · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Hamilton Waterjet Model HJ292 * Hamilton Waterjet Model HM651 * Twin Disc Marine Gear Transmission * Westerbeke 33KW EDE D-NET Generator Minimum Qualifications: * Must have a high school diploma or ...

EPSILON SYSTEMS

Marine Mechanic-Level III

Carrollton, VA · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Hamilton Waterjet Model HJ292 * Hamilton Waterjet Model HM651 * Twin Disc Marine Gear Transmission * Westerbeke 33KW EDE D-NET Generator Minimum Qualifications: * Must have a high school diploma or ...

EPSILON SYSTEMS

Marine Mechanic-Level III

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Hamilton Waterjet Model HJ292 * Hamilton Waterjet Model HM651 * Twin Disc Marine Gear Transmission * Westerbeke 33KW EDE D-NET Generator Minimum Qualifications: * Must have a high school diploma or ...

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Waterjet information

See Virginia salary details

$16

$28

$39

How much do waterjet jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for waterjet in Virginia is $28.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.85 and $32.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed for a waterjet operator?

To thrive as a Waterjet Operator, you need a strong understanding of machine operation, blueprint reading, and basic mathematics, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Experience with CNC waterjet cutting machines and familiarity with CAD/CAM software are typically required, along with safety certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These qualifications are crucial for ensuring precise cuts, maintaining high safety standards, and contributing positively to production workflows.

What is a waterjet?

A Waterjet job typically involves operating and maintaining waterjet cutting machines, which use high-pressure water streams (sometimes mixed with abrasives) to cut various materials. Operators are responsible for setting up the machine, loading materials, programming cuts, and ensuring accuracy and efficiency. They also perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot issues to keep the equipment running smoothly. Waterjet cutting is widely used in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive due to its precision and ability to cut without heat distortion.

What does a waterjet operator do?

A typical day for a Waterjet Operator involves setting up and calibrating the waterjet cutting machine, loading materials, and programming the equipment based on job specifications. Operators closely monitor the cutting process to ensure accuracy, perform routine maintenance, and troubleshoot any minor mechanical issues that arise. Collaboration with engineers, production teams, and quality control staff is common to meet project deadlines and uphold quality standards. This role offers variety and hands-on work that can be both challenging and rewarding for those who enjoy technical problem-solving.

What are the most commonly searched types of Waterjet jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Waterjet jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Waterjet jobs in Virginia? For Waterjet jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Waterjet jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Waterjet jobs in Virginia are:
Waterjet jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waterjet job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 6% Contract, and 14% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,780 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Waterjet Operator

Oceaneering International, Inc.

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Oceaneering rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

365th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description


The primary responsibility of this position is to set up and operate a Flow & OMAX Waterjet machine. Must understand, operate, and maintain the waterjet machine including any support equipment required to accomplish assigned tasks. This position also requires completing documentation properly and housekeeping of the area. This role supports Oceaneering's Marine Services Division (MSD) and is located in Chesapeake, VA. Travel is not expected or required.
Responsibilities
  • Set up and operate both Flow WaterjetandOMAX Waterjet cutting systems to produce components in accordance with drawings, specifications, and work instructions.

  • Interpret technical drawings, models, and technical work documents to ensure parts are cut with appropriate tolerances, edge quality, and stock allowance to support downstream machining operations.

  • Perform complete machine setup including material loading, fixturing, nozzle alignment, abrasive loading, pump startup, and verification of cutting parameters.

  • Program, edit, and troubleshoot cutting programs at the machine as needed (including modifying DX files, tool paths, lead-ins/outs, kerf compensation, and quality settings) to support production flow and reduce backlog.

  • Select and verify correct materials and thickness prior to cutting; adjust machine parameters accordingly.

  • Perform in-process and final inspections usingPrecision Measuring Instruments (PMI) including calipers, micrometers, scales, and other measuring devices to ensure dimensional compliance.

  • Accurately complete all required production and inspection documentation

  • Perform routine preventative maintenance on waterjet systems including pump inspections, nozzle/orifice replacement, abrasive system maintenance, filter changes, and general equipment upkeep.

  • Troubleshoot minor equipment issues and coordinate with maintenance personnel as required.

  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area in accordance with company safety and housekeeping standards.

  • Support production priorities and collaborate with machinists and programmers to ensure parts are optimized for downstream machining operations.

  • Follow all safety procedures related to high-pressure waterjet systems and abrasive materials.

Qualifications
Required
  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • Minimum three (3) years' experience operating CNC waterjet cutting systems, preferably Flow and/or OMAX equipment.

  • Experience using Precision Measuring Instruments (PMI) for in-process and final inspection.

  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications.

  • Working knowledge of CNC programming with the ability to edit and adjust programs at the machine.

  • Strong understanding of tolerances and how waterjet cutting impacts downstream machining operations.

  • Mechanical aptitude with ability to perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting.

  • Ability to complete production and inspection documentation accurately.

  • Must be a U.S. citizen who is not a dual citizen of any other country.

Desired
  • Journeyman-level Inside Machinist or equivalent trade experience.

  • Experience supporting precision machining operations.

  • Knowledge of preventative maintenance practices for high-pressure pump systems.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Characteristics:
  • Must have excellent oral and written communications skills.

  • Ability to rely on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.

  • Ability to successfully reach company goals in an environment in which a wide degree of creativity and latitude is required.

  • Ability to represent MSD in a positive manner while adhering to the organization's core values.

Pay Transparency:
We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package. Employee benefits vary by role, however, may include Health and Wellness, Mental Health, Retirement Savings, Life and Disability, Paid Maternity and Parental Leave, Paid Time Off, Tuition Reimbursement, and an Employee Assistance Program.
Compensation: $28 - $35 an hour
Working Conditions
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The manufacturing/shop work environment; the site may contain mobility barriers with uneven ground level and obstructed pathways. Climatic and environmental conditions at the job site will be indoor climate with steady temperatures and noise levels caused by tools, machinery, equipment, and etc.
OCCASIONAL
FREQUENT
CONSTANT
  • Lift 20 - 50 pounds

  • Work in confined spaces, kneel, jump, run, work while lying on stomach/back, crawl and use repetitive movements of the arms and hands.

  • Identify color differences

  • Wear PPE for skin protection.

  • Lift 10 - 20 pounds

  • Climb stairs/ladders, stand, balance, stoop, squat, reach and lift/carry objects.

  • Twist body, sit with back supported, head forward/flexed, head tilted/rotated, and work with arms extended overhead.

  • Operate a motor vehicle.

  • Lift up to 10 pounds.

  • Wear PPE for body, vision and hearing protection.

About Us
Oceaneering is a global provider of engineered services and products, primarily to the offshore energy industry. We develop products and services for use throughout the lifecycle of an offshore oilfield, from drilling to decommissioning. We operate the world's premier fleet of work class ROVs. Additionally, we are a leader in offshore oilfield maintenance services, umbilicals, subsea hardware, and tooling. We also use applied technology expertise to serve the defense, material handling, aerospace, science, and renewable energy industries.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
All qualified candidates will receive consideration for all positions without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other non-merit factor.
About the Team
Oceaneering Marine Services Division (MSD) has over 30 years of experience providing full-service submarine and surface ship repairs supporting maintenance and alterations aboard commercial and U.S. military vessels. We are SUBSAFE and DDS-SOC certified and perform high-consequence maintenance on assets that operate in demanding environments.

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