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Header Set Up Operator Jobs in Hope Valley, RI (NOW HIRING)

SMT Operator I

North Kingstown, RI ยท On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Responsible for both automated surface and manual surface mount manufacturing. Assist with set-up ... Works under close direction of Senior personnel in the functional area. (Senior SMT Operators and ...

Lathe Operator

Narragansett, RI ยท On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Set-up, operate and troubleshoot Lathes and Billet Press. Cut cores as needed. * Perform visual inspections and measurement of materials and maintain accurate records within ERP system. * Maintain a ...

Lathe Operator

Narragansett, RI ยท On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Set-up, operate and troubleshoot Lathes and Billet Press. Cut cores as needed. * Perform visual inspections and measurement of materials and maintain accurate records within ERP system. * Maintain a ...

Lathe Operator

Narragansett, RI ยท On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Set-up, operate and troubleshoot Lathes and Billet Press. Cut cores as needed. * Perform visual inspections and measurement of materials and maintain accurate records within ERP system. * Maintain a ...

CNC Punch / Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Warwick, RI ยท On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

The Machine Operator III sets up and operates complex manual & CNC metal fabrication machines (saws ... Review machine tooling requirements and plans, set-up, and operations to optimize the flow of work ...

CNC Punch / Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Warwick, RI ยท On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

The Machine Operator III sets up and operates complex manual & CNC metal fabrication machines (saws ... Review machine tooling requirements and plans, set-up, and operations to optimize the flow of work ...

The Machine Operator III sets up and operates complex manual & CNC metal fabrication machines (saws ... Review machine tooling requirements and plans, set-up, and operations to optimize the flow of work ...

CNC Punch / Laser Operator 2nd Shift

Warwick, RI ยท On-site

$19.50 - $24.25/hr

The Machine Operator III sets up and operates complex manual & CNC metal fabrication machines (saws ... Review machine tooling requirements and plans, set-up, and operations to optimize the flow of work ...

Showing results 41-60

Header Set Up Operator information

See Hope Valley, RI salary details

$16

$28

$51

How much do header set up operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for header set up operator in Hope Valley, RI is $28.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.30 and $30.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a header set up operator?

A Header Set Up Operator is a skilled manufacturing professional responsible for setting up and operating machines that form headers, usually in the production of fasteners like bolts, screws, and rivets. They install dies, adjust machine settings, and ensure the equipment produces components to precise specifications. The role often involves troubleshooting issues, performing quality checks, and maintaining a safe work environment. This job requires technical knowledge of machinery, attention to detail, and mechanical aptitude.

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

To thrive as a Header Set Up Operator, you need a solid understanding of machine operation, mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of manufacturing processes, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with tools such as micrometers, calipers, and production management systems, as well as relevant safety certifications, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help operators excel in this role. These skills are essential for maintaining product quality, ensuring safe operations, and minimizing downtime in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a header set up operator, and how can they be effectively managed?

Header Set Up Operators often encounter challenges such as frequent machine changeovers, tight production schedules, and maintaining consistent product quality. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, effective time management, and solid mechanical aptitude. Proactively communicating with maintenance and quality assurance teams can help address issues quickly, while continuous learning about equipment updates and best practices will improve efficiency. Being adaptable and solution-oriented is key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Header Set Up Operator vs Material Handler?

AspectHeader Set Up OperatorMaterial Handler
CredentialsTypically requires high school diploma or equivalent; certifications in machinery operation are a plusHigh school diploma or equivalent; forklift and material handling certifications often required
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or printing facilities, operating machineryWarehouses, distribution centers, handling and moving materials
Employer & IndustryPrinting, packaging, manufacturing industriesLogistics, warehousing, distribution industries
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding machinery setup and operationFocus on material movement and inventory management

The Header Set Up Operator primarily focuses on preparing and operating machinery for header production in manufacturing or printing environments. In contrast, a Material Handler manages the movement and storage of materials within warehouses. While both roles require similar certifications and work in industrial settings, their core responsibilities differ significantly, catering to different aspects of production and logistics.

Infographic showing various Header Set Up Operator job openings in Hope Valley, RI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,486 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

SMT Operator I

Hayward

North Kingstown, RI โ€ข On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Hayward Holdings Inc. (NYSE "HAYW") is the largest manufacturer of residential swimming pool equipment in the world, with a significant presence in the commercial pool market that is continuously growing. Hayward designs, manufactures, and markets a full line of residential and commercial pool and spa equipment including pumps, filters, heating, cleaners, salt chlorinators, automation, lighting, safety, flow control and energy solutions at our company owned facilities. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Hayward also has facilities in Tennessee, Arizona, and Rhode Island as well as Canada, Spain, France, Australia, and China.


Position Overview: Responsible for both automated surface and manual surface mount manufacturing. Assist with set-up operation, and adjustment of SMT equipment. Monitors and maintains equipment to meet company standards. May be responsible for quality assurance and documentation. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. Works under close direction of Senior personnel in the functional area. (Senior SMT Operators and Manufacturing Engineering group). Reports to PCBA Lead/Supervisor. Works under moderate supervision.

Major Tasks and Responsibilities:

Demonstrates knowledge, safety, and operation of SMT equipment by written work instruction, equipment manual and verbal instruction. Must be familiar with Surface-Mount Technology (SMT) electronic components and SMT assembly process

Must learn the principles of ESD and use ESD & MSD precautions in material handling

Must complete various Production and Quality control logs

Must be able to read and comprehend a Bill of Material (BOM)

Must be able to learn to operate automated SMT assembly equipment including, but not limited to, Stencil Printer, Pick and Place Machine, Reflow Oven, AOI, Storage Towers and stencil wash equipment (Specific machine training available)

Within a reasonable time, complete a reading of area procedures

Reports issues with area equipment and process in a timely manner. Completes machine Trouble Reports

Must develop an understanding of SMT feeder & tape sizes as well as feeder and tape pitches

Must be able to follow PCB assemblies through process and report discrepancies to Supervisor, line lead or SMT technician

Must develop component identification knowledge

Must be able to properly pick components from stock to set-up and re-load feeders

Must be able to perform visual inspections of SMT assemblies as indicated by BOM's and visual aids

Must develop the ability to run SMT assembly and AOI equipment; startup, load recipe, error resolution, adjustments, production runs, shut down.

Must be able to accurately sort and segregate good units from failed AOI assemblies

Must be able to unload finished assemblies from equipment and store according to work instructions

Must maintain general machine cleaning and upkeep based on PM schedules

Must be familiar with and able to use hand tools, screwdrivers, pliers, cutters, etc.

Must maintain a neat work area

Must practice safe work habits and report unsafe conditions to supervisor

Progress towards being responsible for quality, quantity and inspection of work performed

Other duties may be assigned as required

Qualifications:

Ability to read and write in English to work from BOM's, Visual Aids, assembly drawings, work instructions and complete a wide variety of production and Quality Control logs.

SMT soldering ability including minor touch up, repair/replacement of fine pitch parts

Must be able to use a microscope to verify component placement, orientation, and fine pitch repairs

Willingness to operate machines and learn processes out of the normal SMT scope.

Must possess basic computer skills and be comfortable using Microsoft Windows, Microsoft office products such as Word and Excel and a variety of machine computer interfaces (GUI's).

Must be able to understand, interpret and resolve error messages from varied machines

Must have a general knowledge of manufacturing processes, electronics, and be able to read and interpret assembly prints, follow visual aids and written area work instructions

Able to work with speed and accuracy and follow verbal instructions

Able to communicate effectively and relate to co-workers

Must have visual acuity to read prints, part numbers and interpret color codes on wires and components

Education and Experience:

High school diploma/GED

Must have 6 months - 2 years of experience in SMT

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, hear, stand, and walk. The employee will frequently be required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds using proper lifting techniques. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.