ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Header Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Illinois Tool Works Inc

$28/hr

We are looking for a cold-heading operator to join our team! This individual would be responsible ... Prior experience operating single and multi-die header machines * Continuous Improvement Mindset

Booz Allen Hamilton

Data Security Engineer

Shiloh, IL · On-site

$86.80 - $198/hr

... header guidelines. Interface with key stakeholders, including agency personnel and internal ... Experience designing, implementing, configuring, operating, or testing IT systems or security ...

New

Zachry Group

Engineer III Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$106K - $149K/yr

Capable of operating and functioning in a fast-paced work environment. Must possess a vision ... flare header design, relief valve sizing and performing contingency analysis and flare header ...

Zachry Group

Engineer III Process

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$106K - $149K/yr

... flare header design, relief valve sizing and performing contingency analysis and flare header ... Capable of operating and functioning in a fast-paced work environment. Must possess a vision ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsHeader Operator JobsHeader Operator Jobs in Illinois

Header Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$22

$34

How much do header operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for header operator in Illinois is $22.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $23.99 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 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 Illinois? For Header Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Header Operator jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Header Operator jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Header Operator jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Header Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Header Operator jobs in IL? For Header Operator jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Header Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Header Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,956 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Cold Heading Setup Operator

Shakeproof - ITW

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Company Description
ITW Shakeproof serves major automotive OEMs and their tier suppliers with metal, cold-headed fasteners totaling approximately $160m in revenue. In addition to ITW's industry leading research and development capabilities, ITW Shakeproof enhances our customers' competitive advantage by:
• Maintaining advanced engineering and manufacturing facilities in North America.
• Exchanging product, process, and benchmarking information with sister units worldwide.
• Continually improving processes, material, and designs to ensure every product exceeds customer specifications while providing unparalleled value.
We are currently seeking set-up operators on 1st and 2nd shift.
Job Description
Sets up and operates single or multi die double stroke (SDDS) cold header and forge pointer to produce quality automotive fasteners from cold metal rod or wire by performing the following duties:
• Selects, installs, and aligns died, cutting tools, guides, and stops to set up machine.
• Sets controls to synchronize machine actions for various operations on workpiece in specified sequence.
• Adjusts settings of dies on controls, as required, to produce product within specified tolerances and meeting quality standards.
• Positions coil of metal wire, or rod on feed spindle and threads it through straightening rolls into feed mechanism.
• Verifies dimensions of workpieces with specifications. Modifies and grinds thread roll dies as necessary.
• Recognize and inspect quality issues and troubleshoots process or quality issues with engineers to correct and document.
• Starts machines to produce sample product and measures for conformance with specifications.
• Complies with all safety rules and TS16949 policies and operating procedures.
• Maintains, oils, and cleans machines on a regular basis. Drains and cleans oil trays; dumps scrap and sweeps and mop floors to maintain housekeeping standards.
• Keeps tools well organized and reorder as necessary to assure proper inventory levels.
• Ensures all quality and safety documentation is completed.
• Other responsibilities as needed.
Qualifications
• High School diploma or the equivalent required; Associates degree preferred
• Prior experience operating single and multi-die header machines
• Strong mechanical aptitude
• 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.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds repetitively
• Understanding and compliance with safety rules and regulations
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to stand 8 hours; bend regularly
Additional Information
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.

Apply