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Wire Edm Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

CYNET SYSTEMS

EDM Machine Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Experience with Wire EDM. * Experience with RAM EDM. * Experience with EDM Drill Machines ... Perform routine machine cleaning and operator-level preventive maintenance activities. * Maintain ...

TalentClout

Machine Operator

Houston, TX

$20 - $25/hr

You will be responsible for setting up, running, and monitoring RAM and Wire EDM processes ... Proven experience as an EDM Machine Operator in a production or job-shop environment. Hands-on ...

Houston Industrial Tradesmen

EDM Wire Machinist

Pasadena, TX

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Design and develop programs for CNC Wire EDM and mill machines. Set-up, check programs, operate and ... tool operating procedures. * Setups involve familiarity with and understanding program formats ...

All JobsWire Edm Operator JobsWire Edm Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Wire Edm Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$11

$21

$29

How much do wire edm operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for wire edm operator in Houston, TX is $21.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wire EDM operator?

Wire EDM Operators are skilled technicians who use wire electrical discharge machines (EDM) to cut, shape, and manufacture precise metal parts and components. They set up, program, and operate the EDM machines, often working with blueprints or CAD files to create components with tight tolerances. Their responsibilities include selecting the correct wire, monitoring the machining process, ensuring quality control, and performing basic machine maintenance. Wire EDM Operators often work in manufacturing industries such as aerospace, automotive, and tool and die making.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wire EDM operator?

To thrive as a Wire EDM Operator, you need a solid understanding of machining principles, blueprint reading, and experience with precision measuring instruments, often supported by technical training or machining certifications. Familiarity with CNC wire EDM machines, CAD/CAM software, and related programming systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring high-precision manufacturing, maintaining quality standards, and contributing to efficient production workflows.

What are some common challenges faced by wire EDM operators and how can they be addressed?

Wire EDM Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining tight tolerances, managing machine maintenance, and troubleshooting wire breakage or surface finish issues. These can be addressed by thoroughly understanding machine settings, regularly inspecting and maintaining equipment, and staying updated with the latest machining techniques. Collaboration with engineers and quality control teams is also important to ensure that parts meet specifications and to address any production issues promptly.

What is the difference between Wire Edm Operator vs CNC Wire Cutting Technician?

AspectWire Edm OperatorCNC Wire Cutting Technician
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certification in EDM or manufacturingRequires CNC programming and machining certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or machine shop setting, operating wire EDM machinesMachine shops, manufacturing plants, operating CNC wire cutting equipment
Industry UsageCommon in precision manufacturing, aerospace, toolingUsed in similar industries, often overlapping with EDM operations

The main difference between a Wire Edm Operator and a CNC Wire Cutting Technician lies in their focus: the Wire Edm Operator primarily handles wire EDM machines for precision parts, while the CNC Wire Cutting Technician may also program and troubleshoot CNC wire cutting equipment. Both roles require technical skills and are vital in manufacturing environments focused on high-precision components.

Wire Edm Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wire Edm Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,656 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Wire EDM Programmer / Operator - Houston, TX

Gretna Machine Shop

Houston, TX • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

At a Glance

Company: Gretna Machine Shop
Location: Houston, TX (Northwest)
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range:

  • EDM Operator: $20 – $25/hr
  • EDM Programmer: $25 – $30/hr
    Shift: Day Shift (with potential future flexibility)
    Overtime: Available
    Experience Level: Entry to Mid (Operator) | Mid-Level (Programmer)
    Work Authorization: U.S. work authorization required

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Why This Role Exists

This role exists to support growing demand for high-precision components at Gretna Machine Shop, particularly in aerospace and energy applications where EDM is critical.

As the shop continues to expand capabilities, this position plays a key role in producing complex parts that require tight tolerances, intricate geometries, and high surface finish standards.

This is a strong opportunity for:

  • Operators looking to step into programming
  • Programmers who want to work on real, high-spec EDM work

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The Work You’ll Be Doing

  • Program, set up, and operate ONA Wire EDM machines
  • Develop and edit EDM programs (machine control and/or offline CAM)
  • Read and interpret blueprints, CAD models, and GD&T
  • Select proper wire, flushing strategy, and cutting parameters
  • Perform setups, offsets, alignments, and first article inspections
  • Monitor machining for accuracy, surface finish, and tolerance
  • Inspect parts using micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and comparators
  • Troubleshoot issues (wire breaks, accuracy, process deviations)
  • Perform routine maintenance and keep machines running efficiently
  • Support production while machines are running (deburring, marking, etc.)
  • Collaborate with engineering, quality, and machining teams

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Machines, Equipment & Environment

  • ONA Wire EDM machines
  • Precision inspection tools:
    • Micrometers, calipers, height gauges
    • Optical comparators
  • Clean, organized production floor inside a
    50,000 sq. ft. air-conditioned facility

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What You’ll Be Working On

  • Parts: Precision aerospace and energy components
  • Work Type: High-mix, low-volume + complex geometries
  • Tolerances: Tight-tolerance, high-spec work
  • Materials:
    • Aluminum
    • Stainless steel
    • Tool steels
    • Nickel alloys (Inconel, etc.)

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What We’re Looking ForFor Operators ($20–$25/hr)

  • Experience operating EDM or CNC machines
  • Ability to read blueprints and basic GD&T
  • Familiarity with inspection tools
  • Strong attention to detail and reliability

For Programmers ($25–$30/hr)

  • Experience programming Wire EDM (ONA preferred)
  • Strong understanding of EDM cutting strategies and parameters
  • Ability to interpret complex drawings and GD&T
  • Experience with CAD/CAM or offline programming software

Nice to Have

  • Aerospace or high-precision manufacturing experience
  • Tool & die or mold making background
  • Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement exposure

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Why Machinists Like Working at Gretna Machine Shop

  • Work on complex, non-repetitive parts
  • Exposure to aerospace and energy components
  • Opportunity to grow from operator → programmer → advanced roles
  • Clean, air-conditioned shop
  • Long-tenured team and strong internal knowledge base
  • Investment in equipment and expanding capabilities

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