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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 ...

$114K - $114K/yr

Operating at the intersection of strategy, delivery, data, and change, this role connects ... heading. * Lead program governance across the globalCRMimplementation, ensuring consistent ...

Production Jeweler

Coppell, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

Signet Jewelers is the world's largest retailer of diamond jewelry, operating more than 2,800 ... each piece heading directly to a valued customer. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

$114K - $114K/yr

Operating at the intersection of strategy, delivery, data, and change, this role connects ... heading. * Lead program governance across the global CPQ/CLM/Bids & Tenders implementation ...

Showing results 21-40

Heading Operator information

See Texas salary details

$12

$23

$28

How much do heading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 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 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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a heading operator?

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 challenges might a heading operator face, 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 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 August 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.

Manufacturing Engineer (Cold Forming)

Howmet Aerospace

Waco, TX

$64K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 162 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Responsibilities
Job Summary
The Advanced Manufacturing Engineer (Machining & Cold Forming) is responsible for developing, optimizing, and supporting high-volume metal manufacturing processes across multiple manufacturing sites and supplier locations. This role focuses on CNC machining, cold forming, cold heading, rolling, extrusion, and secondary operations. The position requires up to 75% travel to support plant launches, process improvements, tooling validation, and supplier development.
Responsibilities
Machining & Cold Forming Process Engineering
  • Develop, optimize, and validate machining and cold forming processes for high-volume production.
  • Establish process windows using DOE, SPC, and capability studies (Cp/Cpk).
  • Analyze forming loads, material flow, tool wear, and machining performance to improve quality and throughput.
  • Support on-site troubleshooting of production issues at domestic and international manufacturing locations.

Tooling & Equipment
  • Specify, design, and qualify forming dies, punches, rolls, fixtures, and machining tooling.
  • Lead on-site die verifications/tests, machine acceptance, and production ramp-ups.
  • Work directly with OEMs and tool shops to commission new equipment and debug tooling.
  • Drive tool life improvement and maintenance strategies across multiple facilities.

New Product Introduction (NPI)
  • Support NPI activities across multiple plants, including feasibility reviews and process selection.
  • Lead pilot builds, PPAP/FAI, and production launches on-site.
  • Ensure manufacturing readiness through standardized processes and documentation.

Quality & Continuous Improvement
  • Lead root cause analysis and corrective actions for machining and forming defects.
  • Implement Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to reduce scrap, variation, and downtime.
  • Standardize best practices across sites through process documentation and training.

Materials & Supplier Development
  • Partner with material suppliers on wire, bar, heat treatment, and coatings.
  • Conduct supplier process audits and capability assessments.
  • Support sourcing decisions and cost-reduction initiatives through technical expertise.

Cross-Functional Leadership
  • Provide hands-on technical support to operations, maintenance, and quality teams.
  • Train operators and engineers during launches and process changes.

Act as a technical liaison between plants, suppliers, and corporate engineering.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in manufacturing, mechanical, or industrial engineering (or similar disciplines).
  • 10+ years of experience in machining and/or cold forming environments.
  • Strong understanding of metal forming physics, machining fundamentals, and tooling.
  • Proven experience supporting production in multi-site or supplier-facing roles.
  • Willingness and ability to travel 50%-75%, including extended on-site assignments.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with high-volume cold heading, progressive forming, or precision machining.
  • Knowledge of steels, alloys, heat treatment, and surface coatings.
  • Experience working with global suppliers or international manufacturing plants.
  • Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent.

Work Environment & Travel
  • 75% travel required to manufacturing plants, tool shops, and supplier locations.
  • Hands-on, shop-floor-focused role with extended time on-site during launches and issue resolution.
  • Remaining time split between home office and engineering documentation.

About Us
Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers' success and making a positive impact on the world. To learn more about the way Howmet Aerospace Inc. is advancing the sustainability of our customers, markets, and communities where we operate, review the 2025 Environmental Social and Governance report at www.howmet.com/esg-report. Follow: LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
If you need assistance to complete your application due to a disability, please email TalentAcquisitionCoE_Howmet@howmet.com

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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