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Heading Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Security Officer

Austin, TX

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Skill in operating motorized vehicles. Skill in operation of two-way radio equipment. Ability to ... heading back home. If you have children between the ages of 6 months and 6 years old, enroll them ...

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Heading Operator information

See Texas salary details

$12

$23

$28

How much do heading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for heading operator in Texas is $23.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $25.53 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 Texas? For Heading Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Heading Operator jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Heading Operator jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Heading Operator jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Heading Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Heading Operator job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 38% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,317 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Production Technician II - Blind Products 2nd or 3rd Shift

Howmet Aerospace

Waco, TX

$15.25 - $19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 160 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Summary               

Responsible for the production of parts meeting print and specification requirements.  Also responsible for the care and maintenance of equipment.  Must function as a tooling readiness specialist when directed by the Manufacturing Supervisor.  Train other operators, as required.  Must show by example a commitment to continuous improvement.

  • Production of parts meeting drawing and specification requirements.

  • Set-up and operation of equipment, as assigned.

  • Perform statistical process control measurements and calculations.  Complete forms or computer entries as required.

  • Order and maintain inventory levels of required tooling, gages and supplies.

  • Participate in assuring team tooling and material readiness. (Assemble tooling set-up kits, stage raw materials and perform external setup tasks, as required) 

  • Participate in setting and achieving team and individual productivity and quality targets.

  • Participate with team in continuous improvement efforts.

  • Perform machine inspections including daily, weekly and monthly preventative maintenance tasks.

  • Perform shop floor housekeeping duties.

  • Prepare daily production reports and forms.

  • Train other operators as required.

  • Ensure that all work activities are performed in accordance with established safety and environmental standards.

  • Maintains full compliance with Company policies and procedures and conducts all activities in accordance with the Howmet Guide to Business Conduct.

  • Demonstrates a knowledge of and commitment to learn manufacturing principles and techniques.

  • Performs all work activities in accordance with safety and environmental standards. Performs other duties as assigned.


  • High school graduate preferred or equivalent combination of education and experience. 

  • An associate’s degree in a technical field related to manufacturing, such as machining, is preferred.

  • Minimum of 2 to 3 years of experience performing moderately complex mechanical work.
  • Experience in assigned equipment set-up and operation.
  • Ability to set-up and operate multiple equipment types (pin heading, sleeve heading, pin rolling, band annealing, drilling and/or assembly.) Ability to train operators in equipment set-up and operation.
  • Ability to read and interpret product blueprints.
  • Ability to use inspection gages and instruments.
  • Good communications and interpersonal skills.
  • Demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement.   

What Howmet Aerospace employees say

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About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888