ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Header Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MS AEROSPACE INC

Cold Heading Operator

Sylmar, CA

$20 - $55/hr

Cold Heading Operator Department : SHOP Department/ Area: Cold Heading Position Summary: Candidates ... Candidate will be working on a powerful cold header machine to run batches of high strength bolts ...

Senior plc

Weld Prep Operator

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Operating pneumatic tools such as die grinders, Dynabrader belt sanders and pencil grinders. * Operating bench buffers, bench grinders. * Using hand tools such as deburring tools, files and wire ...

Senior plc

Orbital Weld Prep Operator AM

Oceanside, CA

$18 - $19/hr

... Operator you will: Fabrication, pre-Weld Prepping and Orbital Welding of tubing assemblies. Assemblies to be Fabricated/welded will include Stainless Steel, Titanium and Inconel fittings and tubes ...

Senior plc

Weld Prep Operator

Oceanside, CA

$17 - $19/hr

Operating pneumatic tools such as die grinders, Dynabrader belt sanders and pencil grinders. * Operating bench buffers, bench grinders. * Using hand tools such as deburring tools, files and wire ...

Senior plc

Orbital Weld Prep Operator AM

Oceanside, CA

$18 - $19/hr

... Operator you will: Fabrication, pre-Weld Prepping and Orbital Welding of tubing assemblies. Assemblies to be Fabricated/welded will include Stainless Steel, Titanium and Inconel fittings and tubes ...

Senior plc

Orbital Weld Prep Operator AM

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

... Operator you will: Fabrication, pre-Weld Prepping and Orbital Welding of tubing assemblies. Assemblies to be Fabricated/welded will include Stainless Steel, Titanium and Inconel fittings and tubes ...

Senior plc

Orbital Weld Prep Operator AM

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

... Operator you will: Fabrication, pre-Weld Prepping and Orbital Welding of tubing assemblies. Assemblies to be Fabricated/welded will include Stainless Steel, Titanium and Inconel fittings and tubes ...

5TH Axis Inc

Operator IV

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$33 - $36/hr

... var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid ... We are currently seeking an experienced CNC Operator IV to join our growing production team. If you ...

OMW Corporation

2nd Shift Machine Operator

Novato, CA · On-site

$20 - $24.25/hr

The Machine Operator's responsibility is, to load and run parts in CNC machines, including computer ... Please email your resume or job history to email provided in header. Suitable candidates will be ...

Howmet Aerospace

2nd Shift - Heading Machinist

Brea, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Header Machinist ' 2nd shift Position Overview: As a Header Machinist you'll be part of our team ... best operating conditions, including replacing worn fasteners, machine parts or tooling. May be ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHeader Operator JobsHeader Operator Jobs in California

Header Operator information

See California salary details

$14

$22

$34

How much do header operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for header operator in California is $22.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Header Operator vs Pipefitter?

AspectHeader OperatorPipefitter
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; apprenticeship or technical training
Work EnvironmentOil refineries, chemical plants, manufacturing facilitiesConstruction sites, industrial plants, maintenance facilities
Industry UsageCommon in oil and gas, manufacturing, and processing industriesCommon in construction, industrial maintenance, and plumbing

The Header Operator primarily focuses on operating and maintaining header systems in industrial settings, often requiring specific certifications and working in manufacturing or processing plants. Pipefitters, on the other hand, specialize in installing and repairing piping systems, working mainly on construction sites or industrial facilities. While both roles require technical skills and safety training, their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Header Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, familiarity with manufacturing processes, and often a high school diploma or technical training. Experience with industrial machinery, quality control systems, and sometimes certifications in equipment operation or safety are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators excel in monitoring production and addressing issues quickly. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality output in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Header Operators and how can they be addressed?

Header Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining the precision of machinery, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and meeting production deadlines. Staying proactive with regular maintenance and closely following operational procedures can help minimize downtime. Collaborating effectively with maintenance teams and supervisors is vital for quickly resolving issues, while ongoing training ensures operators stay updated on best practices and safety protocols. These strategies help boost productivity and reduce the risk of workplace incidents.

What jobs make $1000 per hour?

Jobs that can pay $1000 per hour typically include specialized roles such as high-level surgeons, experienced anesthesiologists, certain legal or financial consultants, and top-tier executive coaches. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes certification or licensing, and they are usually performed in high-stakes or private settings.

What are Header Operators?

Header Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating and maintaining machines that manufacture metal headers, which are components used in fasteners like bolts and screws. They set up the machinery, monitor production processes, perform quality checks, and troubleshoot any issues to ensure products meet specifications. Header Operators play a key role in metalworking and manufacturing industries, contributing to efficient production lines and high-quality output.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A header operator typically does not earn $10,000 a month without specialized training or experience. High-paying jobs that can reach this level often include roles such as sales managers, real estate brokers, or skilled trades like electricians or plumbers, which may require certifications but not necessarily a college degree. Success in these roles depends on skills, experience, and performance rather than formal education alone.

What is a header operator?

A header operator is a worker responsible for operating machinery that cuts, stacks, or processes headers in manufacturing or construction settings. They typically operate equipment such as header machines, require safety training, and may need to follow specific production schedules. The role involves attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols.

Did the US lose 33,000 jobs in June?

As a header operator, employment data such as job losses are typically reported by economic analysts and government agencies. There is no specific information indicating a loss of 33,000 jobs in June; employment figures can fluctuate due to various economic factors. For accurate and current data, consult official reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics or similar sources.

What Is a Header Operator?

A header operator is a metalworking professional that operates a cold heading machine. Heading is a process that includes forging, extruding and upsetting in one, allowing you to expedite the production of products like bolts, screws, and lug nuts. Your duties as a header operator include loading the materials into the machine and conducting the proper ratioing process, ensuring that the final product is not victim to buckling. Diameter ratio is generally consistent at 3:1, but you must be able to adapt to different situations, changing the ratio when necessary. Header operator is a more advanced position that requires machinery skills. While there are no post-secondary academic qualifications, it’s essential to have several years of metalworking experience before transitioning to a header operator career.

More about Header Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Header Operator jobs in California? For Header Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Header Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Header Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Header Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Header Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Header Operator jobs in CA? For Header Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Header Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Header Operator job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,804 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Machinist I- Header Operator

Machinist I- Header Operator

MW Industries, Inc.

Anaheim, CA

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY 

The Cold Heading Operator performs various skilled and complex tasks in running and maintaining production equipment to meet the everyday needs of our customers. The Machine Operator operates either Cold Heading or Roll Threading Machines in some cases both. 

REPORTING TO 

Department Manager or Supervisor 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS 

Responsibilities: 

  • Abides by all Safety practices put forth by the company. 
  • Maintains a clean and organized work area. 
  • Ability to operate and troubleshoot the single and multi- blow cold heading machines. 
  • Be able to read blueprints proficiently. 
  • Completes preventative maintenance (PM) plan prior to and after tooling changes. 
  • Responsible for ensuring parts are made to print and tooling is received to print. 
  • Inspects tooling and setup. 
  • Must be able to repair / maintain all tool and dies. 
  • Perform adjustments on machinery to assure a quality part is being made. 
  • Be able to safely operate a lift truck. Lift truck license preferred. 
  • Loads coils onto spool rack. 
  • Train and mentor lower level less experienced operators. 
  • Perform other duties as assigned. 

SKILLS and ABILITIES 

Strong mechanical aptitude. 

Detailed oriented. 

Strong verbal and written communication skills. 

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating, and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. 

Ability to complete routine production and quality reports. 

Understanding and compliance with safety rules and regulations. 

Positive Attitude. 

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE 

HS Diploma or GED equivalent. 

5+ years of experience operating cold heading equipment. 

Experience working in the Fastener industry is a plus. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., and anything over requires help and/or handling equipment. While performing the duties of the job, the employee is regularly required to stand for periods of time, walk and reach with hands and arms. 

EEOC Statement: 

MW Industries, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.  

Apply