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Heading Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PDS Tech Commercial

Hot Heading Operator

Chandler, AZ

$24 - $35/hr

Join PDS Tech as a Hot Heading Operator in Chandler, AZ Pay Rate: $24-$35/hr , based on experience | Shift: 1st Shift 6am-2:30pm (Monday-Friday) PDS Tech is seeking an experienced Hot Heading ...

MS AEROSPACE INC

Cold Heading Operator

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$20 - $55/hr

Cold Heading Operator Department : SHOP Department/ Area: Cold Heading Position Summary: Candidates are required to run batches of high strength bolts at a constant heated temperature of 1000° ...

MW Industries

Machinist I- Header Operator

Anaheim, CA · On-site

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 ...

Howmet Aerospace

Heading Machinist - 2nd Shift

Brea, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Heading Machinist ' 2nd Shift Position Overview: The successful candidate will have the ability to ... While operating the machine the operator will follow the quality policy and production standards of ...

Howmet Aerospace

Heading Machinist - 2nd Shift

Brea, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Heading Machinist ' 2nd Shift Position Overview: The successful candidate will have the ability to ... While operating the machine the operator will follow the quality policy and production standards of ...

Howmet Aerospace

Heading Machinist - 2nd Shift

Brea, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Heading Machinist ' 2nd Shift Position Overview: The successful candidate will have the ability to ... While operating the machine the operator will follow the quality policy and production standards of ...

Howmet Aerospace

Heading Machinist - 2nd Shift

Brea, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Heading Machinist ' 2nd Shift Position Overview: The successful candidate will have the ability to ... While operating the machine the operator will follow the quality policy and production standards of ...

Howmet

Heading Machinist - 2nd Shift

Brea, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Heading Machinist ' 2nd Shift Position Overview: The successful candidate will have the ability to ... While operating the machine the operator will follow the quality policy and production standards of ...

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How much do heading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for heading operator in the United States is $25.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Heading Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and experience in operating and maintaining heading machines, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial machinery, basic computer systems for process monitoring, and safety certifications such as OSHA training are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication set standout operators apart. These skills ensure safe, efficient production and help minimize downtime in manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges a Heading Operator might face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Heading Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise machine settings, handling unexpected equipment malfunctions, and meeting production quotas under tight deadlines. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong attention to detail, quick troubleshooting skills, and effective communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Continuous training and close adherence to safety protocols are also essential for minimizing downtime and ensuring high-quality output.

What is a Heading Operator?

A Heading Operator is a skilled worker who operates machines designed to form the heads of fasteners such as bolts, screws, and rivets, typically by using a cold or hot forming process. They are responsible for setting up, adjusting, and maintaining heading machines to ensure products meet precise specifications. Heading Operators monitor the production process, inspect finished parts, and make necessary adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency. They also follow safety protocols and may troubleshoot equipment issues as needed.

What is the difference between Heading Operator vs Cutting Machine Operator?

AspectHeading OperatorCutting Machine Operator
Primary RoleOperates machinery to shape metal or other materials by creating precise bends and formsOperates machines to cut, trim, or shape materials like metal, wood, or fabric
Required SkillsKnowledge of metal properties, blueprint reading, machine operationMaterial handling, machine setup, measurement accuracy
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, metalworking shopsFactories, manufacturing, woodworking, textiles
Common CertificationsMachinery operation certifications, safety trainingMachine operation certifications, safety standards

Both Heading Operators and Cutting Machine Operators work in manufacturing environments, operating specialized machinery. While Heading Operators focus on shaping metal through bending and forming, Cutting Machine Operators handle cutting and trimming tasks. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right role based on skills and industry needs.

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Heading Operator jobs near you
Hot Heading Operator

Hot Heading Operator

PDS Tech Commercial

Chandler, AZ

$24 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Join PDS Tech as a Hot Heading Operator in Chandler, AZ


Pay Rate: $24–$35/hr, based on experience | Shift: 1st Shift 6am-2:30pm (Monday–Friday)
 

PDS Tech is seeking an experienced Hot Heading Operator to support first?shift production in a fast?paced, high?precision manufacturing environment. This role is critical to producing aerospace?grade fasteners and requires hands?on setup and operation experience—this is not an entry?level or trainee position.

If you have a strong mechanical background, experience with forging or hot heading equipment, and take pride in quality, safety, and efficiency, this is an excellent opportunity to join a stable and performance?driven manufacturing team.

Position Overview

The Hot Heading Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining hot heading machines used in the production of aerospace fasteners. You will monitor heat treatment and forging processes, inspect finished parts for dimensional accuracy, troubleshoot equipment issues, and ensure production runs safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

 Key Responsibilities
  • Set up and operate hot heading machines for aerospace fastener production
  • Monitor heat treatment and forging processes to ensure proper material formation
  • Inspect parts for quality, tolerances, and dimensional accuracy
  • Troubleshoot mechanical and process issues to minimize downtime
  • Perform routine maintenance and adjustments to ensure optimal machine performance
  • Follow all safety, quality, and production standards
  • Meet production schedules in a fast?paced manufacturing environment
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives and shop?floor best practices
  • Work occasional Saturday overtime as production demands require
 Required Qualifications
  • Hands?on experience setting up and operating hot heading or forging equipment
  • Experience in fastener manufacturing, preferably aerospace
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem?solving skills
  • Ability to read and understand work instructions, process specs, and quality requirements
  • High attention to detail and commitment to producing quality parts
  • Proven record of working safely in an industrial manufacturing environment
  • Flexibility to work overtime, including Saturdays when required

?? Note: Candidates must be able to set up and operate machines independently. Entry?level candidates or trainees without direct hot heading or forging experience will not be considered.

 Why This Opportunity Stands Out
  • Competitive pay based on experience ($24–$35/hr)
  • Stable, full?time role in aerospace manufacturing
  • Work with specialized equipment and precision components
  • Safety?focused culture with emphasis on quality and continuous improvement
  • Opportunity to contribute directly to aerospace flight?critical hardware
 Ready to Apply?

If you’re an experienced Hot Heading Operator looking for a challenging and rewarding role in aerospace manufacturing, apply today and bring your expertise to a team that values skill, precision, and performance.


Pay Details: $24.00 to $35.00 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
  • The California Fair Chance Act
  • Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
  • Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
  • San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.


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About PDS Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1977, PDS Tech, Inc. is one of the nation's premier specialty staffing firms with 31 offices nationwide.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1977

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