Hard Armor Waterjet Operator 2nd Shift
$18.00/Hour | 2nd Shift | 11:30 AM10:00 PM
Position Summary
We are seeking a
Hard Armor Waterjet Operator to operate and maintain waterjet cutting equipment used to manufacture shields, hard armor plates, and other hard armor and R&D components.
This position is responsible for setting up jobs, operating cutting equipment, verifying part dimensions, maintaining quality and consistency, documenting production information, and performing routine operator-level maintenance. The successful candidate will have strong attention to detail, basic mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work safely around industrial equipment.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Machine Operation & Setup
Load materials and set up waterjet cutting programs according to Manufacturing Orders, engineering drawings, and established procedures.
Operate waterjet equipment to produce parts to specified dimensions and requirements.
Verify part dimensions and quality using calipers, templates, and other measuring equipment.
Make appropriate machine or program adjustments to maintain part accuracy and consistency.
Review completed parts to ensure they meet established quality requirements before release.
Identify and communicate material, programming, dimensional, or process discrepancies to supervision and engineering personnel.
Production Documentation
Accurately record job information, including part quantities, machine hours, and production deviations.
Document issues or abnormalities encountered during production.
Monitor workflow and communicate production concerns that may affect schedules or quality.
Equipment Maintenance & Area Support
Perform routine user-level maintenance on waterjet equipment.
Inspect nozzles and perform basic cleaning and maintenance activities.
Clean filters and remove accumulated garnet as required.
Perform routine waterjet tank checks.
Monitor consumable materials and notify supervision when replacement materials are needed.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with 5S standards.
Safety & Teamwork
Follow all applicable safety procedures and standard operating procedures.
Properly use required PPE, including hearing protection and safety glasses.
Follow lockout/tagout procedures and waterjet-specific safety requirements.
Work collaboratively with other production areas to maintain efficient material and production flow.
Support production and R&D requirements as needed.
Participate in continuous improvement and process optimization activities.
Qualifications
High school diploma or GED required.
Previous experience operating CNC or waterjet machinery is preferred.
Ability to read and interpret manufacturing drawings or digital part files.
Ability to use basic measuring tools such as calipers and templates.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Basic mechanical aptitude and familiarity with industrial equipment.
Basic computer literacy.
Ability to follow written instructions, production documentation, and safety procedures.
Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a production team.
Physical & Work Environment
This is a hands-on manufacturing position requiring frequent movement throughout the production environment. Candidates must be able to:
Lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
Stand, walk, and move frequently throughout the facility.
Frequently use hands and arms to handle, control, and operate materials, tools, equipment, and controls.
Work in warehouse and production environments that may include loud noise, heavy machinery, and changing temperatures.
Wear required personal protective equipment, including hearing protection and safety glasses.
Maintain awareness of surroundings and follow safety procedures while operating industrial machinery.