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Header Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

SafeHouse Cook

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto ... What We're Looking For in a Culinary Operative: * 1-2 years of cooking experience in a similar high ...

SafeHouse Cook

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto ... What We're Looking For in a Culinary Operative: * 1-2 years of cooking experience in a similar high ...

Header Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$14

$23

$35

How much do header operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for header operator in Wisconsin is $23.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $25.00 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 WI? For Header Operator jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Cold Header/Cold Former Operator

Worthington Enterprises

Chilton, WI • On-site

$26.35/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Worthington Enterprises rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

174th of 415 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

We are looking for Davenport/Cold Former Machinist to join our team. This experienced machinist works in conjunction with other members in the main valve housing department to ensure production schedules and quality standards are met with little downtime through machining parts needed in order to meet customers needs and demands. This position requires strong mechanical knowledge. A detailed orientated, self-motivated, problem solver that utilizes a strong work ethic. We are looking for people who can work either 3rd or off-shift schedules. Must be able to lift over 50lbs and high mechanical aptitude/intermediate knowledge of a cold former.

Named to Fortune's 100 Best Companies to Work for in America list four times, and with a people first philosophy rooted in The Golden Rule, Worthington Enterprises provides a safe and rewarding work environment.

We put our people first and operate under the guiding principle of the Golden Rule - treating others the way we would want to be treated. We have a team-oriented culture with development opportunities and the ability for individuals to grow within our organization.

If you're still unsure why you should join our team, here's a few more reasons...

  • Compensation is based on experience and starts at $26.35/hour plus $1.50/hr shift differential (for 2nd/3rd shifts)
  • Access to our low-cost medical benefits package on Day 1!
  • Accelerated career growth - we promote from within and offer frequent development opportunities on and off the plant floor.
  • Onsite Gym and Barber Shop!
  • Relocation Assistance!

We are currently hiring for 2nd or 3rd shift. Employees must be open to working either an 8-hour or 10-hour shift (depending on business needs) plus 3 weekend shifts/month.

Responsibilities

  • Perform all duties in a safe manner
  • Ability to work in a team environment focusing on meeting Safety, Quality, Delivery and Cost standards
  • Set up, complete PM's, troubleshoot, repair, and operate multi-spindle screw machine
  • Must be able to work independently; will be responsible for specific or cross-functional tasks, based on equipment
  • Interpret drawings and machine parts to specification while upholding tight tolerances
  • Perform in process checks to make certain that the parts run efficiently and accurately to assure quality before approving production
  • Inspects finished product for completeness and conformance to all quality assurance procedures
  • Identify opportunities for improvement with suggestions and recommendations for remedy
  • Know, understand, and follow plant safety rules, policies and procedures
  • Follow company policies and procedures
  • Participate in Lean Transformation efforts including safety initiatives
  • Assist others as needed
  • Maintain a clean work area
  • Complete paperwork accurately and timely as needed and required
  • Other duties as assigned by lead, supervisor and/or manager
  • Perform all duties in the spirit of Our Philosophy and in accordance to legal, ethical and contractual practices.

Desired Experience

  • Capability to read and interpret blueprints, work order instructions, and operate required tools involved in position
  • Capable of reading and writing relay/ladder logic
  • Basic knowledge of machine repair
  • Must be forklift certified or have the ability to be forklift certified
  • Must be proficient at using micrometers, dial calipers, height gage, shop gages, depth gages and dial indicators to inspect parts and verify dimensions
  • Must be able to maintain tolerances and finishes to engineering and manufacturing specifications
  • Possess good problem solving skills
  • Ability to communicate effectively
  • Ability to measure, read, write, and document work
  • Ability to sustain a steady work pace over an entire work day
  • Strong basic math skills, including the ability to understand and convert both metric and English measurements
  • Strong in process inspection skills
  • Strong interpersonal and leadership skills with the ability to establish working relationships quickly
  • Excellent problem solving and troubleshooting skills with the ability to drive resolution
  • Comfortable performing a wide range of responsibilities, from thinking broadly to executing detailed tasks
  • Proven ability to effectively work in a detailed, fact based environment
  • Knowledge of safety protocol such a lock out tag out
  • Commitment to personal integrity and integrity of the product(s) and processes
  • Customer focused with the ability to function with a high sense of urgency
  • Confidence to make decisions and a strong commitment to team success"

Our Company is proud to have a dynamic and inclusive workforce where employees are empowered to innovate, thrive and grow. We believe that each employee's unique strengths contribute to the success of our organization. This belief extends to how we consider our job applicants. Your talents may align with this position or other opportunities within our organization. Apply today to start unlocking your career potential with Worthington Enterprises.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in the application and hiring process. If you are interested in employment with Worthington Enterprises and need an accommodation or assistance using the careers website, please contact careers@wthg.com.

Worthington Enterprises (NYSE: WOR) is a designer and manufacturer of market-leading brands that help improve everyday life by elevating spaces and experiences. The Company operates with two primary business units: Building Products and Consumer Products.

The Building Products segment includes cooking, heating, cooling and water solutions, architectural and acoustical grid ceilings and metal framing and accessories. The Consumer Products segment provides solutions for the tools, outdoor living and celebrations categories. Product brands within the Worthington Enterprises portfolio include Balloon Time, Bernzomatic, Coleman (propane cylinders), CoMet, Elgen, Garden Weasel, General, HALO, Hawkeye, Level5 Tools, Mag Torch, NEXI, Pactool International, PowerCore, Ragasco, Well-X-Trol and XLite, among others.

Founded in 1955 as Worthington Industries, Worthington Enterprises follows a people-first Philosophy with earning money for its shareholders as its first corporate goal.  Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Worthington Enterprises and its joint ventures employ approximately 6,000 people throughout North America and Europe.


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