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Heading Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Cold Header Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$28.60 - $31.75/hr

This is an excellent opportunity for candidates with cold heading/cold forging experience who are ... Operator is responsible for production operations involving complex cold heading machinery and ...

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Motorcoach Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$52K - $75K/yr

Whether you're an experienced motorcoach operator or looking to grow your career in passenger ... Whether you're heading to a sporting event, church retreat, corporate outing, or school trip, we ...

HVAC Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$130K/yr

As our HVAC Technician, you'll start your day by heading out to serve customers throughout Knoxville, Maryville, and Anderson County, using your expertise to keep their HVAC systems operating at peak ...

Ability to read and interpret documents such as repair procedures, safety rules, operating and ... the heading. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodations or ...

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Ability to read and interpret documents such as repair procedures, safety rules, operating and ... the heading. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodations or ...

New

Heading Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$23

$27

How much do heading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for heading operator in Tennessee is $23.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $24.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Heading Operator jobs in Tennessee? For Heading Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Heading Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Heading Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
Infographic showing various Heading Operator job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, and 62% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,044 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Cold Header Operator

PeopleShare

Nashville, TN • On-site

$28.60 - $31.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Cold Header Operator
Location: Gallatin, TN (Greater Nashville Area)
Relocation Assistance Available
We are seeking experienced Cold Header Operators to join a growing manufacturing operation in Gallatin, Tennessee. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates with cold heading/cold forging experience who are looking for long-term career growth, competitive pay, excellent benefits, and relocation support.
Pay & Shift Information
$28.60 - $31.75/hour starting pay
Additional $0.75/hour shift premium for 2nd and 3rd shifts
Regular performance and compensation reviews at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year
High-performing employees have the potential for continued wage growth as skills and responsibilities increase
Relocation assistance provided
Job Responsibilities
The Cold Header Operator is responsible for production operations involving complex cold heading machinery and related equipment.
Responsibilities include:
Set up, adjust, and operate cold heading equipment
Perform machine changeovers and tooling setups
Troubleshoot production and quality issues
Maintain close tolerances and monitor product quality
Perform machine adjustments and minor repairs
Conduct SPC and quality checks
Load and verify stock materials
Complete production documentation
Assist with preventive maintenance activities
Train and support less experienced operators as needed
Operate material-handling equipment such as forklifts and hand trucks
Maintain housekeeping and safety standards
Follow all company policies and procedures
Qualifications
Required:
Cold heading or cold forging experience
Ability to set up and operate cold heading equipment
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
Ability to read blueprints and production specifications
Basic math and computer skills
High school diploma or equivalent
Preferred:
Experience with machines such as:
Asahi Sunac
Sacma
Ingramatic
Similar cold heading or fastener manufacturing equipment
Bonus Experience (Not Required):
Thread rolling experience
Flat-die thread rolling experience
Training is available for threading operations for candidates with strong cold heading backgrounds.
Benefits
Employees enjoy a highly competitive benefits package, including:
Medical insurance with multiple plan options
Coverage beginning the first of the month following eligibility
Company-paid life insurance
Company-paid short-term disability
Company-paid long-term disability
401(k) with company match up to 6%
Paid relocation assistance
Ongoing training and career advancement opportunities
Why Join Us?
Growing manufacturing operation in the Nashville market
Long-term career stability and advancement potential
Strong focus on employee development and retention
Supportive team environment with open communication
Active community involvement and charitable outreach
Affordable cost of living compared to Nashville while still offering access to everything the region has to offer, including entertainment, professional sports, music, dining, and outdoor recreation
Backed by a large global manufacturing organization with operations around the world

Text "JOBS" to (1-610-232-7597) to answer a few questions and connect with a Recruiter!
PeopleShare is the leading Staffing Agency in the region and has temporary to hire and permanent jobs across 8 states. Our openings include receptionist, data entry, customer service, collections, office managers, call center, administrative assistant, accounts payable clerk, accounts receivable clerk, file clerk, warehouse, assembly, production, pickers, packers, forklift, machine operators, and maintenance mechanics. IND7
PeopleShare provides equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category or class under federal, state, and/or local laws. This policy applies to all locations and all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. #IND7

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About PeopleShare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Whether you’re a job seeker or a hiring manager, we have the experience, expertise and resources to provide hiring solutions that work for you. We specialize in temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct hire staffing roles in the clerical, financial and light industrial sectors. PeopleShare connects employers and temporary employees who hit the ground running on day one.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Collegeville, PA, US

Year founded

2005

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