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Cold Header Operator Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Southwire Company LLC

Operator, Take Up III

Carrollton, GA · On-site

$24.34 - $25.89/hr

... operator with running the machine. Perform all other duties as assigned. CROSS TRAINING: Will be ... Must be able to work in hot and cold environments normally found in a prefabricated building ...

All JobsCold Header Operator JobsCold Header Operator Jobs in Georgia

Cold Header Operator information

See Georgia salary details

$13

$23

$43

How much do cold header operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for cold header operator in Georgia is $23.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a cold header operator might face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Cold Header Operators often encounter challenges such as handling machine malfunctions, maintaining tight tolerances for fastener specifications, and working efficiently under production deadlines. Addressing these issues typically involves strong attention to detail, routine machine maintenance, and clear communication with team members and supervisors. Operators can benefit from ongoing training to stay current with equipment upgrades and best practices for safety and productivity, which helps reduce downtime and ensures high-quality output.

What is the difference between Cold Header Operator vs Cold Header Machinist?

AspectCold Header OperatorCold Header Machinist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in cold header machinesHigh school diploma, machining certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plant, operating cold header machinesMachine shop, setting up and maintaining cold header equipment
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, and appliance manufacturingMetalworking, manufacturing, and tooling industries

The Cold Header Operator primarily focuses on operating cold header machines to produce metal parts, while the Cold Header Machinist is involved in setting up, maintaining, and repairing these machines. Both roles require similar certifications and work in manufacturing environments, but the operator role is more machine-focused, whereas the machinist role involves more technical setup and maintenance tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cold header operator?

To thrive as a Cold Header Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, understanding of manufacturing processes, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Knowledge of cold heading machines, basic measuring tools like calipers and micrometers, and safety procedures is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well in a team are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure efficient production, high-quality output, and a safe work environment in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.

What is a cold header operator?

A Cold Header Operator is a skilled manufacturing professional who operates machines that form metal parts, such as bolts, screws, and rivets, through a process called cold heading. This process involves shaping metal at room temperature using high-pressure dies and punches, rather than heating the metal. Cold Header Operators are responsible for setting up the machines, monitoring production, inspecting finished parts for quality, and performing routine maintenance on the equipment. Their role is essential in producing fasteners and other metal components used in various industries, including automotive and construction.
What are popular job titles related to Cold Header Operator jobs in GA? For Cold Header Operator jobs in GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Cold Header Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cold Header Operator job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,592 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Operator, Take Up III

Southwire Company LLC

Carrollton, GA • On-site

$24.34 - $25.89/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Southwire rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 536 rated manufacturers

Job description

A leader in technology and innovation, Southwire Company, LLC is one of North America's largest wire and cable producers. Southwire and its subsidiaries manufacture building wire and cable, utility products, metal-clad cable, portable and electronic cord products, OEM wire products and engineered products. In addition, Southwire supplies assembled products, contractor equipment, electrical components, hand tools and jobsite power and lighting solutions. The company also offers digital solutions including contractor planning and utility grid resiliency as well as field services including cable testing, rejuvenation and replacement to support our customers as a value-add partner. We are proud to offer competitive compensation, employee benefits, tuition reimbursement and unlimited growth opportunities. Our more than seven decades of progressive growth can be attributed to our determination to developing innovative systems and solutions, exercising environmental stewardship and enhancing the well-being of the communities in which we work and live. How will you power what's possible?
Location: BWP
Shift: 6:50 p - 7:00 a
Pay Rate: $24.34 - $25.89
Job Description
JOB OVERVIEW: The Take Up 3 is an entry level role where the individual will operate a take-up in line with the extruder.
For example, some commonly ran machines that would fall under this job title would be: 6 Inch PVC Take-Up (BWP), (Heflin), (SCUPP)
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:
High school diploma or equivalent
Must read, write, and speak English; Bilingual in Spanish is a plus
Must be able to stand and lift heavy loads for long periods of time
Assist with the operation of machine you are assigned to
Must be able to follow instructions
Must be able to lift up to 45 lbs.
PRIMARY JOB TASKS:
This position may require a Southwire forklift license.
Perform take up and pay off operations as required.
Layer wind cable to customer specified ship out length and reel.
Properly utilize production order to meet all customer requirements.
Operate per the applicable procedures.
Change out reels of cable while maintaining line function
Utilize tagging system to label reels
Make minor adjustments and repairs to machines
Operate take up and assist line operator with running the machine.
Perform all other duties as assigned.
CROSS TRAINING:
Will be required to cross-train on equipment within your identified workgroup at your facility
Once trained in more complex jobs, may be required to fill the position in the event of absence or vacancy
Will be required to rotate on a set frequency within your workgroup to maintain skill proficiency
QUALITY:
Do not release products until all quality checks have been passed
Perform quality checks, as outlined in the process procedures for the machine, and minor maintenance when necessary.
Immediately report quality issues to the supervisor or quality manager
Use the company's ISO Quality System documentation to help guide all daily quality activities.
SAFETY:
Working safely is a condition of employment.
Responsible to observe Southwire safety rules and maintain good housekeeping
Follow all safety procedures and rules
Properly wear all required PPE
Review and know all Job Hazard Analyses for proper job sequence and hazards associated with the jobs assigned to do
Review and know all Safety Data Sheets for the jobs assigned to do
Maintain all work areas to 5S standards
Perform pre-operation safety inspection and hazard analysis
Follow all company environmental rules/procedures and handle all materials in a manner designed to minimize environmental impact.
PHYSICAL/ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:
Must be able to work in hot and cold environments normally found in a prefabricated building without climate-control.
Physical activity associated with daily performance of this job include: balance, climbing, fingering, grasping, hearing, kneeling, lifting, pulling, pushing, reaching, repetitive motions, standing, stooping, walking and sitting.
Benefits We Offer:
  • 401k with Matching & Pension Plan (Eligible for Pension after 1,000 Hours Worked)
  • Family and Individual Insurance Packages (Health, Life, Dental, and Vision)
  • Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
  • Long & Short-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Insurance Plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Programs
  • Advancement & Professional Growth opportunities
  • Parental Leave
  • & More

Southwire is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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