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Head Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Direct Hire Global

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Machine operator

Chicopee, MA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You will train as an assistant to the head operator. 4 day work week. Mon-Thursday 6am-4:30pm Company Description Direct Hire Global offers each specific applicant an opportunity to express their ...

Webforge

Slitter Operator 7

Valley, NE · On-site

$26.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... head. This position may also support operations by transporting coils to the mills using a shag ... Operator shag truck as needed to haul coils to mills Required Qualifications of Every Candidate ...

NRG Energy

Auxiliary Operator I

Jewett, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Job Summary: Under the direction of head operator or supervisor, Auxiliary Operators operate and monitor auxiliary equipment and systems that support the safe, efficient, reliable, and ...

Valmont Industries Inc.

Slitter Operator

Valley, NE · On-site

$26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operate other equipment in the slitter area including an uncoiler, hold-down rollers, peeler table, flattener rollers, crop shear, side guides, and slitter head * Operator shag truck as needed to ...

OHCAC Head Start

Head Cook - Richland County

Mansfield, OH · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our Head Start Locations The OHCAC Head Start Classrooms provide high-quality care for children during the critical first 2,000 days of life by operating 8 learning centers, serving children birth ...

OHCAC Head Start

Associate Teacher - Head Start - Marion

Marion, OH · On-site

$18.23 - $19.14/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our Head Start Locations The OHCAC Head Start Classrooms provide high-quality care for children during the critical first 2,000 days of life by operating 8 learning centers, serving children birth ...

OHCAC Head Start

Associate Teacher - Early Head Start

Marion, OH · On-site

$18.41 - $19.33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our Head Start Locations The OHCAC Head Start Classrooms provide high-quality care for children during the critical first 2,000 days of life by operating 8 learning centers, serving children birth ...

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All JobsHead Operator Jobs

Head Operator information

What is a head operator?

Head Operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the operation of machinery, equipment, or industrial processes in facilities such as factories, plants, or construction sites. They supervise other operators, ensure safe and efficient workflows, and troubleshoot any issues that arise during operations. Head Operators also coordinate maintenance, enforce safety regulations, and may be involved in training new staff or implementing process improvements. Their leadership ensures that production goals are met while maintaining quality and safety standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a head operator, and why are they important?

To excel as a Head Operator, you need in-depth knowledge of operational processes, leadership abilities, and experience in the relevant industry, often supported by vocational training or technical certifications. Familiarity with machinery controls, SCADA systems, safety protocols, and maintenance management software is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and team management skills help drive efficiency and ensure safety. These competencies are crucial for overseeing smooth operations, minimizing downtime, and maintaining compliance with industry regulations.

What are some typical challenges faced by a head operator in managing production teams, and how can they be effectively addressed?

As a Head Operator, common challenges include maintaining consistent production quality, addressing equipment malfunctions promptly, and ensuring effective communication across shifts. Managing a diverse team also requires balancing individual strengths while fostering a collaborative environment. Proactive maintenance scheduling, regular team briefings, and ongoing training initiatives help mitigate these challenges and keep operations running smoothly.

What is the difference between Head Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectHead OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in equipment operation and safety trainingUsually needs a high school diploma and on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentSupervises multiple machines or production lines in manufacturing or processing plantsOperates specific machinery in factories, plants, or construction sites
Industry UsageCommonly found in manufacturing, oil & gas, and processing industriesWidespread across manufacturing, construction, and industrial sectors

The Head Operator oversees multiple machines and manages operational processes, requiring additional certifications and leadership skills. In contrast, the Machine Operator focuses on operating specific equipment with less supervisory responsibility. Both roles are essential in industrial settings, but the Head Operator has a broader scope of responsibilities and qualifications.

More about Head Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Head Operator jobs?

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What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Head Operator jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Head Operator jobs look for?

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Head Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

2nd Shift Cold Head Operator

Birmingham Fastener & Supply

Birmingham, AL • On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Cold Head Operator

Classification: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Technical Forming Manager

Direct Reports: NA

Summary

The Cold Head Operator is responsible for setting up equipment, operating machinery, monitoring and optimizing efficiency, maintaining machines and performing quality check.

Essential Functions/Duties

  1. Perform the set-up, operation, adjustments and preventative maintenance of equipment to produce formed products according to customer dimensional print specifications.
  2. Complete work orders as instructed and within the setup and run rates outlined on each job.
  3. Follow company procedures to produce a quality part while using approved quality gauges and make adjustments as needed.
  4. Complete and submit required daily production reporting forms.
  5. Inspect the required number of parts and record the readings in accordance with standard instructions and procedures.
  6. Work safely.
  7. Performs daily housekeeping and other miscellaneous functions as assigned by manager.

Competencies

  1. Ability to foster and maintain positive relations within all levels of the organization.
  2. Ability to communicate, present facts and provide recommendations effectively in oral and written form.
  3. Ability to work effectively independently or in a team environment.
  4. Basic understanding of mathematical concepts including fractions and decimals.
  5. Mechanical ability and knowledge of tools and machinery.
  6. Ability to maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
  7. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Physical/Cognitive Demands

This is largely a physically active role including walking long distances (over uneven surfaces) to/within our production facility, liftin 50lbs or more, and standing for long periods of time. Position also requires bending, stooping, squatting or standing as necessary. Cognitive abilities required include deductive reasoning, information ordering, oral comprehension, oral expression, problem sensitivity, written comprehension, and written expression.

Position Type/Expected Hour of Work

This is a Full-time position.

Required Education and Experience

  1. HS Diploma/GED

Preferred Education and Experience

  1. 2+ years of mechanical experience
  2. 3+ years of cold head setup experience

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

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