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Cold Heading Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Howmet

Cold Heading Operator 2nd Shift

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer II in our Tucson, AZ location ... Set up and operate progressive cold heading machines (Nakashimada, SACMA) based on part ...

MS Aerospace

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Cold Header

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Cold Heading Operator Department: SHOP Department/ Area: Cold Heading Position Summary: Candidates ... Materials Engineer Evaluates materials and develops machinery and processes to manufacture ...

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Cold Heading Engineer information

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$25

$53

$76

How much do cold heading engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for cold heading engineer in the United States is $53.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.27 and $62.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cold heading engineer?

Cold Heading Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, and oversee the manufacturing process of metal parts using cold forming or cold heading techniques. This process involves shaping metal at room temperature using high-pressure dies and punches, often to produce fasteners like bolts, screws, and rivets. These engineers are responsible for optimizing production efficiency, ensuring product quality, and maintaining equipment. They also troubleshoot process issues and work to improve material usage and tool life. Their expertise is essential in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and construction.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a cold heading engineer?

To thrive as a Cold Heading Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, materials science, and manufacturing processes, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with cold heading machinery, CAD software, and quality control systems, as well as certifications like Six Sigma, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers collaborate with teams and troubleshoot production issues. These skills are crucial for ensuring efficient production, maintaining product quality, and driving continuous process improvements in fast-paced manufacturing environments.

What are common challenges faced by cold heading engineers and how can they be addressed?

Cold Heading Engineers often encounter challenges such as tooling wear, material inconsistencies, and maintaining tight tolerances in high-volume production. Addressing these issues typically involves working closely with quality assurance teams, regularly conducting preventive maintenance on machinery, and collaborating with suppliers to ensure consistent raw material quality. Continuous improvement initiatives, such as implementing Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing practices, also help optimize production processes and reduce defects. Engineers in this role benefit from strong problem-solving skills and effective communication with production and maintenance teams.

What is the difference between Cold Heading Engineer vs Machining Engineer?

AspectCold Heading EngineerMachining Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically an associate's or bachelor's in mechanical or manufacturing engineeringUsually a bachelor's in mechanical or industrial engineering
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, metal stamping facilitiesMachine shops, manufacturing plants, CNC environments
Industry UsageAutomotive, appliance, metal parts manufacturingAutomotive, aerospace, general manufacturing
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for manufacturing process rolesCompared for machining and production roles

The Cold Heading Engineer focuses on designing and improving cold heading processes for metal fasteners, while the Machining Engineer specializes in CNC machining and metal cutting processes. Both roles require engineering knowledge and are vital in manufacturing industries, but they differ in specific skills and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Cold Heading Engineer jobs?

For Cold Heading Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cold Heading Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $111,552 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

Cold Heading Operator 2nd Shift

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Howmet Aerospace
Aviation • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Howmet Aerospaceexternal

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 166 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

About Howmet Aerospace: 

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer II in our Tucson, AZ location. HFS is a business unit of Howmet Aerospace, headquartered in Torrance, California.  We hold the number one global position in aerospace fastening systems, and we’re the North American leader in commercial transportation fasteners. Our high-tech, multi-material fastening systems are found nose to tail on aircraft and aerospace engines. Our products are also critical components of industrial gas turbines, automobiles, commercial transportation vehicles, and construction and industrial equipment.

About Howmet Aerospace

HFS is a business unit of Howmet Aerospace (NYSE:HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company’s primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems and titanium structural parts necessary for mission-critical performance and efficiency in aerospace and defense applications, as well as forged wheels for commercial transportation. Howmet Aerospace is transforming the next phase of more fuel-efficient, quieter aerospace engines and sustainable ground transportation. For more information, visit www.howmet.com. Follow @howmet: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Performance Objectives:

Howmet Aerospace has an opening for a Cold Heading Operator 2nd Shift in our Tucson, AZ location. 

  • Set up and operate progressive cold heading machines (Nakashimada, SACMA) based on part specifications. 
  • Load raw material (wire coils) and monitor machines during the production process.
  • Study sample parts, blueprints, drawings & engineering information to determine methods, sequence of operations in order to fabricate product. 
  • Measure, examine & test completed units to detect defects. 
  • Fabricate replacement and new parts for facility machinery. 
  • Fabricate, erect, install, and maintain facility machinery. 
  • Perform preventative and predictive maintenance on facility machinery. 
  • Troubleshoot and repair facility machinery. 
  • Produce, rework and repair various machine tooling within the drawing and specification requirements. 
  • Maintain, clean and secure work area and tools. 
  • Secure equipment when not in use. 
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Adhere to Howmet EH&S, Quality, Continuous Improvements and other Company Policies.

  • High School Diploma or GED from an accredited institution 

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of tooling setups.

  • Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States.  Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.  Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

  • This position is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) which requires U.S. person status.  ITAR defines U.S. person as an U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. 'Green Card Holder'), Political Asylee, or Refugee.

  • This position will physically require the incumbent to perform duties standing, walking, overhead reaching, lifting (35 – 40lbs), pushing and pulling totes, and leaning over machines, all equally on a regular basis.

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • 2+ Years experience operating progressive cold heading machines.

  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.

  • Experience with basic instrument tools (micrometer, caliper, optical comparator).

  • Familiarity with lean manufacturing and quality systems. 

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About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888

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