Waterjet Operator / CNC Waterjet Machine Operator

CIM Metals is seeking a skilled Waterjet Operator / CNC Waterjet Machine Operator to join our manufacturing team. The ideal candidate will have experience operating CNC-controlled waterjet cutting equipment, reading blueprints, setting up machines, inspecting finished parts, and maintaining production quality standards.

The Waterjet Operator will be responsible for safely operating advanced cutting equipment to produce precision metal components while meeting customer specifications, production schedules, and quality requirements. This role requires strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and experience working in a metal fabrication or manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

CNC Waterjet Machine Operation

• Operate CNC waterjet cutting machines to cut metal parts according to customer specifications
• Set up and load materials including steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and other alloys
• Verify material type, thickness, dimensions, and job requirements before production
• Load CNC programs and make adjustments to machine settings as needed
• Adjust cutting parameters including:
• • Cutting speed
  • Water pressure
  • Abrasive flow rates
  • Machine offsets
  • Tool paths
• Monitor machine operation and make adjustments to ensure consistent part quality
• Perform machine start-up, shutdown, and daily operational procedures
• Troubleshoot basic machine issues and communicate equipment problems to maintenance personnel

Blueprint Reading & Production Support

• Read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, work orders, and production documents
• Verify dimensions and tolerances using precision measuring tools
• Follow job travelers, work instructions, and quality requirements
• Ensure parts are produced accurately according to customer specifications
• Identify defects, inconsistencies, or quality concerns before parts move to the next operation
• Collaborate with fabrication, welding, machining, and quality teams

Quality Control Responsibilities

• Perform in-process inspections of finished parts
• Measure parts using:
• • Calipers
  • Micrometers
  • Tape measures
  • Height gauges
  • Other precision measurement equipment
• Maintain production and inspection records
• Ensure parts meet required tolerances and specifications
• Maintain attention to detail while producing high-quality components

Machine Maintenance & Shop Responsibilities

• Perform daily machine checks and basic preventative maintenance
• Maintain proper abrasive levels and machine consumables
• Clean and maintain the waterjet cutting area
• Replace basic machine components and consumables as needed
• Report machine issues, maintenance needs, and safety concerns
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment

Safety Responsibilities

• Follow all OSHA and company safety procedures
• Properly use personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Follow safe material handling procedures
• Maintain awareness of high-pressure waterjet hazards
• Follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures when required
• Safely operate forklifts, cranes, hoists, or material handling equipment if certified

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience operating CNC machinery, waterjet, laser, plasma, or similar fabrication equipment
• Experience in a manufacturing, machining, or metal fabrication environment
• Ability to read and understand blueprints and technical drawings
• Strong attention to detail and ability to inspect parts accurately
• Basic understanding of CNC machine operation
• Ability to use measuring tools and follow production specifications
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating CNC waterjet cutting equipment
• Experience with abrasive waterjet systems
• Experience with CAD/CAM software
• Experience loading CNC programs and making machine adjustments
• Knowledge of metals including:
• • Carbon steel
  • Stainless steel
  • Aluminum
  • Brass
  • Copper
• Experience with fabrication processes including cutting, grinding, deburring, and finishing

Preferred Certifications & Training

• CNC Machine Operator Certification
• Manufacturing Technology Certification
• Blueprint Reading Certification
• OSHA 10 Certification
• Forklift Certification
• Overhead Crane Certification
• Rigging Certification
• CAD/CAM Training
• Precision Measurement Training
• Quality Inspection Training

Company Description

CIM Metals is a leading metal fabrication company specializing in precision cutting and custom manufacturing solutions. Using advanced technologies including CNC laser cutting, waterjet cutting, and fabrication processes, CIM Metals delivers high-quality components while providing a safe, stable, and rewarding workplace for skilled manufacturing professionals.

Company DescriptionCIM Metals is a leading metal fabrication company specializing in precision cutting and custom manufacturing solutions. Using advanced technologies including CNC laser cutting, waterjet cutting, and fabrication processes, CIM Metals delivers high-quality components while providing a safe, stable, and rewarding workplace for skilled manufacturing professionals.