... the Cold Heading department. This role ensures machines are properly configured per job setup ... Follows the header schedule to ensure Formax machines have die packs ready for upcoming setups.
... the Cold Heading department. This role ensures machines are properly configured per job setup ... Follows the header schedule to ensure Formax machines have die packs ready for upcoming setups.
Cold Header information
See Detroit, MI salary details
$16.18 - $19.36
13% of jobs
$21.23 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$19.36 - $22.54
21% of jobs
The median wage is $25.62 / hr.
$22.54 - $25.72
17% of jobs
$25.72 - $28.90
18% of jobs
$30.14 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$28.90 - $32.08
17% of jobs
$32.08 - $35.26
8% of jobs
$35.26 - $38.44
0% of jobs
$38.44 - $41.62
6% of jobs
$41.62 - $44.80
0% of jobs
$44.80 - $47.98
0% of jobs
$47.98 - $51.16
0% of jobs
$16
$27
$51
How much do cold header jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for cold header in Detroit, MI is $27.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $30.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are some common challenges faced by cold headers, and how can they be addressed?
Cold Headers often encounter challenges such as maintaining tight tolerances, managing machine downtime, and ensuring consistent quality in high-volume production. Addressing these issues typically involves regular machine maintenance, careful monitoring of tooling wear, and collaborating closely with quality control teams. Staying proactive with preventive maintenance schedules and participating in ongoing training can help Cold Headers minimize production interruptions and uphold product standards.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cold header?
To thrive as a Cold Header, you need a solid understanding of metalworking, mechanical aptitude, and experience with manufacturing processes, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with cold heading machines, precision measuring tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well in a team help individuals excel in this role. These competencies ensure efficient production, high-quality output, and a safe working environment in fast-paced manufacturing settings.
What is a cold header?
A Cold Header is a specialized machine operator who sets up and runs cold heading machines used to manufacture metal fasteners like bolts, screws, and rivets. Cold heading is a metal forming process where metal is shaped at room temperature using high pressure, rather than heat. Cold Headers monitor machine performance, inspect finished products for quality, and make adjustments as needed to ensure precise manufacturing. This role requires attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of safety procedures. Cold Headers are commonly employed in automotive, construction, and manufacturing industries.
What is the difference between Cold Header vs Cold Caller?
| Aspect | Cold Header | Cold Caller |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Creates headers or titles for documents, emails, or content | Makes outbound calls to potential clients or customers |
| Work Environment | Office, content creation, marketing teams | Sales, telemarketing, customer outreach |
| Required Skills | Writing, editing, content management | Communication, persuasion, sales techniques |
| Common Usage | Marketing, content creation, documentation | Sales, lead generation, customer engagement |
While both roles involve outreach, Cold Header focuses on creating compelling headers for content, whereas Cold Caller involves direct outbound calls to generate leads or sales. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers target the right skills and expectations for each position.
What are popular job titles related to Cold Header jobs in Detroit, MI?
For Cold Header jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cold Header jobs in Detroit, MI look for?
The top searched job categories for Cold Header jobs in Detroit, MI are:
Job description
Position Summary
Under the direction of the Forming Lead, the Formax Formpak Setup Technician sets up, tears down, and maintains die packs, punches, and transfer tooling on Formax machines in the Cold Heading department. This role ensures machines are properly configured per job setup sheets ahead of scheduled runs, inspects and refurbishes tooling returning from production, and maintains a clean, safe, and well-organized work area in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions
Required Qualifications
Skills & Competencies
Physical & Environmental Requirement
Able to bend, twist, and squat in sometimes awkward positions for prolonged periods of time while exerting force (pushing or pulling) on hand tools to adju
Under the direction of the Forming Lead, the Formax Formpak Setup Technician sets up, tears down, and maintains die packs, punches, and transfer tooling on Formax machines in the Cold Heading department. This role ensures machines are properly configured per job setup sheets ahead of scheduled runs, inspects and refurbishes tooling returning from production, and maintains a clean, safe, and well-organized work area in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions
- Follows the header schedule to ensure Formax machines have die packs ready for upcoming setups.
- Pulls the necessary job box and verifies all tools are ready for installation.
- Follows setup sheets to ensure all dies, spacers, and loose tools are staged at the proper station.
- Installs all punches, dies, and fingers on transfers.
- Adjusts punch wedge settings and IFO timing as needed.
- For packs returning from heading, performs the following:
- Pulls and cleans all tools in the punch pack, die pack, and transfer fingers.
- Reviews progressions and last-piece-off parts to confirm tools remain in good condition and can be reused on the next run.
- Replaces tools as needed, placing a green card on the box before returning it to the shelf; if replacement tools are unavailable, notes the shortage on the sheet and displays a red card to flag it.
- Once tooling is addressed, cleans and prepares the punch block, die block, and IFO for the next setup.
- Maintains a safe and clean working environment by complying with company procedures, rules, and regulations
- Follows all safety requirements to prevent injury to self and coworkers.
- Helps create and maintain a safe work environment by repairing or reporting non-conformances to company safety policies and guidelines.
- Performs required safety procedures to prevent injury to self and coworkers.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED
- 3 years of cold heading experience or die assembly/repair.
Skills & Competencies
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work in a team environment
- Basic computer skills
- Visual acuity for detailed work
- Manual dexterity
- Mechanical ability
Physical & Environmental Requirement
- Un-airconditioned, well-ventilated manufacturing facility
- Monday through Friday, 10 working hours daily
- Saturday work required when necessary
- Able to regularly walk and stand for 10 hours a day; 80% of time will be spent standing
- Lifting, pushing, or pulling of up to 40 lbs. regularly
Able to bend, twist, and squat in sometimes awkward positions for prolonged periods of time while exerting force (pushing or pulling) on hand tools to adju