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Heading Operator Jobs in Chicago Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

OMG, Inc.

Machinist - 1st Shift

Addison, IL · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

OMG is a global company operating manufacturing facilities in Massachusetts, Illinois, and ... Produce cold-forming tooling such as Thread Roll and Cold Heading dies. * Diagnose, service ...

Steel Partners

Machinist - 1st Shift

Addison, IL · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

OMG is a global company operating manufacturing facilities in Massachusetts, Illinois, and ... Produce cold-forming tooling such as Thread Roll and Cold Heading dies. * Diagnose, service ...

Samba

Principal, Insights & Innovation

Chicago, IL

$160K - $180K/yr

Operating within the Insights & Innovation team, the role serves both internal teams (Sales ... Monitor industry trends and the competitive landscape to identify where the market is heading and ...

Samba

Principal, Insights & Innovation

Chicago, IL

$160K - $180K/yr

Operating within the Insights & Innovation team, the role serves both internal teams (Sales ... Monitor industry trends and the competitive landscape to identify where the market is heading and ...

AKIRA

Staff Accountant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

... operating, store, and merchant accounts. This role is critical to keeping vendors paid accurately and on time, cash properly reconciled, and the general ledger clean heading into month-end close. The ...

AKIRA

Staff Accountant

Chicago, IL

$57K - $75K/yr

... operating, store, and merchant accounts. This role is critical to keeping vendors paid accurately and on time, cash properly reconciled, and the general ledger clean heading into month-end close. The ...

ACERTUS

Full-Service Vehicle Delivery Driver

Alsip, IL · On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

Drivers must be comfortable operating a variety of vehicle types and able to successfully pass a ... heading home. Each day is structured, active, and customer-facing, with a strong focus on safety ...

ACERTUS

Full-Service Vehicle Delivery Driver

Alsip, IL · On-site

$17 - $21.50/hr

Drivers must be comfortable operating a variety of vehicle types and able to successfully pass a ... heading home. Each day is structured, active, and customer-facing, with a strong focus on safety ...

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All JobsHeading Operator JobsHeading Operator Jobs in Chicago Ridge, IL

Heading Operator information

See Chicago Ridge, IL salary details

$13

$25

$30

How much do heading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for heading operator in Chicago Ridge, IL is $25.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.35 and $27.93 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 cities near Chicago Ridge, IL are hiring for Heading Operator jobs?

Cities near Chicago Ridge, IL with the most Heading Operator job openings:

Heading Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heading Operator job openings in Chicago Ridge, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,996 per year, or $26 per hour.

Machinist - Cold Heading Operator (2nd Shift)

MW Industries

Addison, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

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 operates either Cold Heading or Roll Threading Machines in some cases both.
REPORTING TO
Department Manager or Supervisor
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Responsibilities:
  • Abides by all Safety practices put forth by the company.
  • Maintains a clean and organized work area.
  • Advanced ability to operate and troubleshoot the single and multi- blow cold heading machines.
  • Be able to read blueprints proficiently.
  • Completes preventative maintenance (PM) plan prior to and after tooling changes.
  • Responsible for ensuring parts are made to print and tooling is received to print.
  • Inspects tooling and setup.
  • Must be able to repair / maintain all tool and dies.
  • Performs adjustments on machinery to assure a quality part is being made.
  • Be able to safely operate a lift truck. Lift truck license preferred.
  • Loads coils onto spool rack.
  • Train and mentor lower level less experienced operators.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

SKILLS and ABILITIES
  1. Strong mechanical aptitude.
  2. Detailed oriented.
  3. Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  4. Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating, and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  5. Ability to complete routine production and quality reports.
  6. Understanding and compliance with safety rules and regulations.
  7. Positive Attitude.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE
HS Diploma or GED equivalent.
5-7 years of experience operating and setting-up cold heading equipment.
Experience working in the Fastener industry is a plus.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., and anything over requires help and/or handling equipment. While performing the duties of the job, the employee is regularly required to stand for periods of time, walk and reach with hands and arms.
EEOC Statement:
MW Industries, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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