Waterjet Operator

Progressive Machine & DesignVictor, NY
Onsite

About The Position

PMD is looking for an experienced Waterjet Operator to join our Fabrication team. This is a hands-on position for someone who enjoys working with precision equipment, solving manufacturing challenges, and producing high-quality parts. You will program, set up, operate, and maintain waterjet equipment, while also performing manual machining and inspection activities. You'll work with a variety of metals and collaborate with Engineering, Programming, and Production to ensure parts are produced accurately, efficiently, and on schedule.

Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • 3+ years of related manufacturing, fabrication, machining, or waterjet experience preferred.
  • Waterjet programming experience using dedicated software.
  • Ability to create basic software sketches when DXF files are unavailable.
  • Forklift experience required.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints.
  • Working knowledge of GD&T.
  • Strong understanding of measurement and dimensional inspection.
  • Ability to apply basic algebra and mathematical concepts.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to resolve practical manufacturing issues.
  • Ability to prioritize work and manage multiple tasks.
  • Ability to work independently and effectively as part of a team.
  • Dependable, flexible, and willing to take initiative.
  • Regularly stand and walk while operating equipment and performing fabrication activities.
  • Regularly use hands and arms to reach, handle, and operate tools and equipment.
  • Occasionally sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and perform repetitive motions.
  • Ability to regularly lift, carry, move, push, or pull 50–60 pounds unassisted.
  • Must wear required safety equipment and PPE.

Nice To Haves

  • Manual milling experience.
  • Sheet-metal forming experience.
  • Experience working with a variety of metals and precision components.
  • Experience with waterjet maintenance and troubleshooting.

Responsibilities

  • Program, set up, operate, and maintain waterjet equipment.
  • Review blueprints, job orders, tooling instructions, and standard charts to determine part specifications, workholding arrangements, cutting feeds and speeds, and tooling requirements.
  • Run trial cuts to verify machine settings and programmed information.
  • Monitor machine operation and make adjustments to machine controls and waterjet media as needed.
  • Create sketches using software when DXF files are unavailable.
  • Program parts using dedicated waterjet software.
  • Safely load and unload workpieces, using vacuum lift assistance when appropriate.
  • Perform manual machining operations including: Drilling, Tapping, Counterboring, Countersinking.
  • Work with a variety of materials, including A2, 4140PH, O-1, stainless steel, 1018, aluminum, and other metals.
  • Measure, mark, and scribe dimensions and reference points on material and workpieces.
  • Select, align, and secure fixtures, cutting tools, accessories, and materials.
  • Assist with manual milling and sheet-metal forming when needed.
  • Read and interpret blueprints and GD&T requirements.
  • Inspect work in process and completed parts to ensure they meet print specifications.
  • Verify dimensional tolerances using micrometers, calipers, surface plates, tape measures, and other inspection equipment.
  • Identify and address quality issues before they impact downstream assembly.
  • Communicate with Engineering, Production, Programming, and other team members to resolve machining or assembly problems.
  • Track raw materials and order replacement sheet stock as needed.
  • Maintain inventory of replacement parts and waterjet consumables such as nozzles and garnet.
  • Perform scheduled waterjet maintenance, including weekly, monthly, and quarterly maintenance activities.
  • Monitor items such as intensifier components, hydraulic oils, and replacement seals.
  • Maintain accurate job routing information and track budgeted hours.
  • Keep the work area clean, organized, and orderly.
  • Follow all company safety procedures and PPE requirements.
  • Operate equipment safely and responsibly.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work environment.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to grow expertise in waterjet programming, precision fabrication, machining, inspection, and equipment maintenance.
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