We are seeking a CNC Waterjet Programmer & Operator to take day-to-day ownership of an established waterjet operation within a custom fabrication shop. This is a hands-on, desk-to-machine position that combines production planning, basic CAD/CAM file preparation, nesting, machine operation, quality control, troubleshooting, and routine equipment maintenance.
An established role with a proven foundation. The current position holder has managed this operation for 12 years and is transitioning into another role, providing an opportunity for a new operator to step into a well-developed workspace and workflow.
Position Overview
Most part packages and parts lists are prepared in advance by the CAD department from assembly drawings. The Waterjet Programmer & Operator reviews the provided information, confirms what must be cut, prepares and nests the files, organizes the day's workload, operates the machine, and communicates promptly when information is missing or unclear.
This position is best suited to a mechanically capable, computer-comfortable manufacturing professional who enjoys working independently and taking ownership of an operation. Priorities and deadlines are communicated clearly; after training, the successful candidate will be trusted to manage the day-to-day workflow with limited supervision.
Equipment and Workspace
- Equipment: 16' x 12' WARDJet CNC waterjet table capable of large-format cutting.
- Software: IGEMS waterjet CAD/CAM software for file preparation, nesting, and machine-code generation.
- Workspace: Large, well-lit waterjet area with natural light, plus a dedicated office/workstation with a print table and dual-monitor computer.
Key Responsibilities
- Program and operate the 16' x 12' WARDJet CNC waterjet table safely and efficiently.
- Review provided part packages, parts lists, job requirements, and shop priorities; organize and sequence the day's cutting accordingly.
- Use basic CAD skills to review, clean up, modify, or prepare 2D cut files.
- Use IGEMS to prepare jobs, select cutting parameters, create toolpaths, and generate machine code.
- Nest parts efficiently to improve material utilization and reduce waste.
- Set up and position material on the table safely and accurately.
- Select appropriate cutting settings based on material type, thickness, quality requirements, and production needs.
- Monitor machine operation and cut quality; make practical adjustments as conditions change.
- Verify finished parts using a tape measure, job information, and sound shop judgment.
- Maintain orderly job files, drawings, cut programs, remnants, and material-use information.
- Perform routine and preventive maintenance, including nozzle changes, abrasive refills, cutting-head checks, and general system upkeep.
- Troubleshoot common machine, software, abrasive-flow, and cut-quality issues; recognize when additional support is required.
- Communicate clearly with CAD, fabrication, project management, and shop leadership when questions, conflicts, or production issues arise.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized waterjet area and support the fabrication shop as needed.
Required Qualifications
- Experience operating CNC equipment such as a waterjet, laser, plasma table, router, mill, lathe, or comparable computer-controlled machinery.
- Basic CAD experience is required, including the ability to review, clean up, modify, or prepare simple cut geometry.
- Ability to read part lists, job packages, and basic fabrication information.
- Strong tape-measure skills and practical dimensional judgment.
- Comfort using computers, CAD/CAM applications, and machine-control software.
- Mechanical aptitude and a disciplined approach to troubleshooting.
- Ability to work independently, organize multiple jobs, and adjust priorities as shop needs change.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to safe, accurate work.
- Willingness and ability to perform routine machine maintenance.
- Ability to handle and move materials as required in a fabrication-shop environment.
Preferred Experience
- Waterjet programming or operating experience.
- Laser, plasma, router, or other CNC profile-cutting experience.
- IGEMS or other CAD/CAM and nesting software.
- AutoCAD, DraftSight, Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or comparable CAD software.
- Experience cutting stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminum, plastics, rubber, or other industrial materials.
- Familiarity with high-pressure waterjet systems, abrasive delivery systems, pumps, nozzles, cutting heads, or comparable industrial cutting equipment.
- Large-format CNC equipment, fabrication-shop, machine-shop, or manufacturing experience.
Training and Technical Scope
This role does not require an engineering background, full assembly-drawing takeoff experience, advanced CAD design, or hand-written G-code. IGEMS generates the machine code. The successful candidate must be able to learn the software, evaluate the information provided, recognize questionable geometry or instructions, prepare accurate cutting jobs, and understand how software decisions affect machine behavior and finished parts.
Work Environment and Culture
The waterjet operates within a practical, team-oriented fabrication shop that takes pride in quality work. Employees are expected to communicate clearly, help one another when needed, and keep work moving without unnecessary drama or micromanagement.
For a capable and organized operator, this is a steady, manageable position with a high level of day-to-day autonomy. Success is straightforward: work safely, remain organized, produce accurate parts on schedule, communicate early when something is unclear, and take care of the machine and workspace.
What Success Looks Like
- Daily cutting priorities are organized and visible.
- Files and nests are prepared accurately before material is committed.
- Parts are produced safely, efficiently, and to the required quality.
- Material waste, repeat work, and avoidable downtime are kept to a minimum.
- The waterjet area, machine, programs, and job information remain organized and dependable.
Position Details
Job title: CNC Waterjet Programmer & Operator
Schedule: Full-time
Reports to: Fabrication Shop Management
Experience level: CNC experience preferred; basic CAD experience required
Join us to be part of a vibrant team dedicated to precision manufacturing! We provide opportunities for growth in a fast-paced environment where your skills make a tangible impact. If you’re passionate about machining technology and eager to contribute your expertise in a supportive setting, we want to hear from you!
Pay: From $26.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- Computer operation: 1 year (Required)
- AutoCAD: 1 year (Required)
Work Location: In person
