Water Jet Operator

About the role

The Water Jet Operator is a critical member of the Fabrication team, responsible for setting up, programming, and operating water jet (and laser, where applicable) equipment to produce high-quality components that meet engineering and customer requirements. This role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to interpret engineering drawings, and a commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement. The Water Jet Operator directly supports production throughput, quality performance, and on-time delivery.

Responsibilities

• Set up, program, and operate water jet and laser cutting equipment in accordance with engineering drawings and work instructions.
• Select appropriate materials, tooling, and machine parameters to ensure quality and efficiency.
• Perform program prove-outs and make minor adjustments to ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Read and interpret 2D mechanical drawings exported from 3D SolidWorks models, including orthographic projections and part parameters.
• Inspect finished parts to verify dimensional accuracy and quality requirements.
• Identify nonconforming parts and communicate issues to the Fabrication Supervisor or Team Leader to support timely resolution.
• Perform basic secondary operations such as tapping, countersinking, and counterboring.
• Clean and deburr finished parts to meet quality and safety standards.
• Provide hands-on support for troubleshooting fabrication and machining processes.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, work instructions, and standard work.
• Support continuous improvement projects to reduce cycle time, reduce scrap, and increase throughput.
• Participate in design‑for‑manufacturability reviews with engineering.
• Perform routine machine maintenance and required preventative maintenance tasks.
• Follow all safety procedures, good manufacturing practices, and ergonomic guidelines.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Collaborate effectively with fabrication, engineering, and quality team members.
• Contribute ideas to improve processes, reduce rework, and increase efficiency.
• Adapt to changing priorities in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum 1 year of experience operating water jet and/or laser cutting equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and specifications.
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on producing accurate parts with minimal rework.
• Ability to work independently while following established instructions and procedures.
• Positive attitude and strong teamwork skills.
• Manual dexterity and ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working from SolidWorks‑generated drawings.
• Exposure to fabrication environments supporting high‑mix, low‑volume production.
• Prior involvement in continuous improvement initiatives.

Benefits

• 401(k) with company matching
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Paid time off
• Life and disability insurance
• Bonus program
• Employee stock purchase
• Referral program

Schedule

Day shift, Monday through Friday