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Waterjet Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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Waterjet information

See Washington salary details

$19

$32

$45

How much do waterjet jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for waterjet in Washington is $32.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.21 and $37.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Waterjet jobs in Washington?

For Waterjet jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Waterjet jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Waterjet jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Waterjet jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Waterjet job openings:

Waterjet jobs near you
Infographic showing various Waterjet job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,150 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager and Makerspace Technician

Washington, DC • On-site

Howard University

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 625 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers

Learn more about Howard Universityexternal

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.
At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.
Here is what we offer:
  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
  • Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
  • Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
  • Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
  • Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!
https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Job Title: Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager/CEA Makerspace Technician
Primary Department: Mechanical Engineering
Job Summary: The Mechanical Engineering Lab Manager/Makerspace Technician oversees the management, maintenance, and safe operation of all departmental laboratory facilities, including machine shops, instructional spaces, and the CEA makerspace. Major responsibilities include:
  • Provide technical support for laboratory instruction, research activities, student projects, and makerspace operations.
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards, facilitate equipment procurement and repairs, and supervise student assistants and student use of facilities.
  • Collaborate with faculty to prepare, set up, and deliver laboratory courses.
  • Conduct routine maintenance, calibrations, and inspections of facilities and equipment.
  • Operate, calibrate, and perform routine maintenance on specialized equipment, including CNC machines, 3D printers, wind tunnels, and material testing; provide consultations on machining techniques and CAD/CAM programming.
  • Manage the departmental machine shop and the makerspace lab, overseeing student design and building activities using manufacturing tools.
  • Provide comprehensive training and certification to students, faculty, and staff on the safe operation of CEA makerspace and machine shop equipment.
  • Assist in the assessment and analysis of space, equipment needs, and requirements.

Core Competencies:
  • Advanced knowledge of machine shop operations, including materials processing and the use of precision tools to fabricate parts.
  • Proficiency in operating and maintaining fabrication equipment, such as CNC machines, lathes, mills, grinders, 3D printers, waterjet cutting tools, laser cutting machines, welding stations, and other general machining tools.
  • Knowledge in using CAD/CAM software in design, technical drawing, and engineering principles relevant to mechanical systems and additive/subtractive manufacturing processes.
  • Strong understanding of laboratory and makerspace safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and risk management in educational and research settings.
  • Skill in operating computers, related software applications (e.g., Autodesk Fusion, Microsoft Office suite, inventory management systems), and office equipment.
  • Expertise in providing hands-on training and supervision in a makerspace environment, including user certification and troubleshooting for design and prototyping activities.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with a diverse population, including faculty, students, and external stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field, with 2-5 years of relevant experience in laboratory management, machine shop operations, or equipment maintenance. Alternatively, 10 years of progressively responsible related work experience may be substituted for educational qualifications.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure
$90,000-$100,000

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