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Header Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Header Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$13

$20

$31

How much do header operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for header operator in Tennessee is $20.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $22.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Header Operator jobs in Tennessee? For Header Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Header Operator jobs in TN? For Header Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Header Operator job openings in Tennessee as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,044 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Production Associates - Constructor de cabrillas de madera

Production Associates - Constructor de cabrillas de madera

84 Lumber Company

La Vergne, TN • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


84 Lumber rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 13 rated diy builders merchants


Job description

Overview
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Build More Than Trusses-Build Your Career with 84 Lumber!
84 Lumber is hiring Truss Builders for our fast-paced manufacturing facility in La Vergne, TN. We are looking for experienced candidates as well as motivated individuals ready to learn a skilled trade.
If you have experience in construction, framing, carpentry, warehouse, landscaping, concrete, roofing, plumbing, painting, or general labor, we want to hear from you!
Pay: $17/hour, plus incentive bonuses. In the first year, employees receive $0.25 raises after 3, 6, and 12 months, and annually thereafter. Opportunities are available to advance to higher classifications.
Potential monthly bonuses based on performance-(efficiency, safety, & quality), and plant sales.
Schedule:
  • Monday-Friday
  • Overtime may be available (including Saturdays)

Requirements (Read Carefully):
  • Must be 18+
  • Must show up on time, every day
  • Must have reliable transportation
  • Must be able to lift 50-75 lbs repeatedly
  • Must be able to work 8-10 hour shifts on your feet
  • Must be able to read a tape measure (no training provided for this)
  • Must be comfortable working in heat, cold, and dust
  • Must be willing to work overtime when needed

Responsibilities:
  • Assemble roof and floor trusses using jigs, nail guns, and hand tools
  • Read and interpret engineered drawings and blueprints
  • Maintain quality, safety, and production standards
  • Work in a team environment to meet daily goals

Qualifications:
  • Construction or manufacturing experience preferred
  • Ability to read a tape measure and use power tools
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for long periods
  • Strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail

Benefits:
  • Full benefits a (medical, dental, vision)
  • Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays
  • 401(k) with company match + profit sharing
  • Monthly performance bonuses
  • Employee discounts
  • Career advancement opportunities

Conditions of Employment:
  • Background check required (no felonies within past 7 years)
  • Drug screening required
  • E-Verify employer (must be authorized to work in the U.S.)
  • Must bring your own 22 oz hammer and tape measure
  • Work boots required on day one
  • No facial hair (must meet safety/PPE requirements)

Requirements (Read Carefully):
  • Must be 18+
  • Must show up on time, every day
  • Must have reliable transportation
  • Must be able to lift 50-75 lbs repeatedly
  • Must be able to work 8-10 hour shifts on your feet
  • Must be able to read a tape measure
  • Must be comfortable working in heat, cold, and dust
  • Must be willing to work overtime when needed

Why Work at 84 Lumber?
We promote from within and invest in our people. This is more than a job-it's a long-term career opportunity in a growing, stable company. If you work hard, show up, and learn fast, you'll do well here. If not, this won't be a fit.
See what it's like to work here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHzpaDp0rfE
Recognition & Awards:
  • 84 Lumber is proud to be recognized as one of America's:
  • Most Patriotic Companies by Newsweek, 2026
  • Most Trustworthy Companies by Newsweek, 2026
  • Largest Family Businesses by Forbes, 2026
  • Top Private Companies by Forbes, 2025
  • Best Large Employers by Forbes, 2025

Apply Today!
Start your career with 84 Lumber in La Vergne, TN.
Responsibilities
Read and understand set-up sheets.
Position plates properly.
Operate gantry.
Verify lumber accuracy with sheets.
Verify truss set up is accurate.
Perform daily operator maintenance.
Maintain 100% crew efficiency.
Mark individual trusses when required.
Train Builder Associates.
Qualifications
Able to read and write in their primary language.
Able to stand for long periods of time.
Able to read or able to learn to read a set up sheet.
Able to lift 50 pounds.

What 84 Lumber employees say

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Benefits

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About 84 Lumber

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

84 Lumber Company is the nation’s leading privately held supplier of building materials, building supplies, manufactured components and industry-leading services for single- and multi-family residences and commercial buildings. 84 Lumber is proud to offer brand name, quality building supplies to building professionals, commercial contractors, home builders, remodelers, developers, and do-it-yourselfers.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Eighty Four, PA, US

Year founded

1956