CNC Waterjet Fabricator – Second Shift

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.; Poway (CA); On-site; USD 54,000 - 87,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. in Poway, California, is seeking a CNC Waterjet Operator on second shift to program, set up, and run waterjet cutting equipment per drawings and work orders.

You will prepare cutting programs, optimize toolpaths, verify tolerances, perform routine maintenance, and ensure safety and quality while meeting production needs. Strong reading of blueprints and basic inspection skills are required.

Qualifications

• Typically requires an associate’s degree, certification, or equivalent in a related discipline and two or more years of increasingly responsible experience in fabrication and/or mechanical assembly.
• Requires solid working knowledge of fabrication and assembly policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Must read and understand technical instructions, drawings, and specifications and utilize basic assembly, measuring, and inspection equipment.
• Must be able to independently resolve routine issues, assist with complex issues, and mentor others as needed.
• Ability to work with AN and MS fasteners, AN plumbing, aircraft riveting tools, and laser marking processes.

Responsibilities

• Develops, edits, and optimizes CNC waterjet cutting programs from engineering drawings and work instructions.
• Imports CAD geometry, creates toolpaths, and nests parts to improve material usage while maintaining cut quality.
• Interprets blueprints and travelers to determine material requirements, cutting sequences, and tolerances.
• Sets up and operates CNC waterjet equipment, including material positioning, nozzle setup, and program verification.
• Performs test cuts and first-piece checks to confirm program accuracy and part dimensions.

Education

Associate's degree or certification or equivalent

Tools

AN/MS fasteners

AN plumbing

Aircraft riveting tools

Laser marking equipment

Job description

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. in Poway, California, is seeking a CNC Waterjet Operator on second shift to program, set up, and run waterjet cutting equipment per drawings and work orders.

You will prepare cutting programs, optimize toolpaths, verify tolerances, perform routine maintenance, and ensure safety and quality while meeting production needs. Strong reading of blueprints and basic inspection skills are required.