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Heading Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Illinois Tool Works Inc

$28/hr

We are looking for a cold-heading operator to join our team! This individual would be responsible for setting up and operating single and multi die double stroke cold headers and forge pointers to ...

VOLT

Production Roles|1st/2nd Shift

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$23 - $35/hr

As a Heading Operator , you will: Work safely under functional safety guidelines such as PPE and equipment interaction. Adhere to quality processes including in-process inspection to ensure ...

MS Aerospace

Be Seen First

Cold Header

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

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°-1100° ...

Howmet Aerospace

Heading Machinist

Brea, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Key Responsibilities: ' Sets, troubleshoots and operates cold heading machines, as required ... best operating conditions, including replacing worn fasteners, machine parts or tooling. May be ...

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Heading Operator information

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How much do heading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 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 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.

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Heading Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heading Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,934 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Machine Operators (Heading/Threading) - 2nd shift with 10% shift premium

Illinois Tool Works Inc

Machesney Park, IL

$28/hr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago

Illinois Tool Works rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

178th of 493 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Job Description:
We are looking for a cold-heading operator to join our team! This individual would be responsible for setting up and operating single and multi die double stroke cold headers and forge pointers to produce quality automotive fasteners from cold metal rod or wire by performing the following duties. Shift time is 3:00 pm to 11:30 pm Monday thru Friday.
  • Assist and observe designated Setup Operators in operation and setup up of machinery
  • Selects, installs, and aligns dies, cutting tools, guides, and stops to setup machine. Sets controls to synchronize machine actions for various operations on work piece in specified sequence
  • Positions coil of metal wire or rod on feed spindle and threads it through straightening rolls into feed mechanism
  • Adjusts settings of dies on controls, as required, to produce product within specified tolerances and meeting quality standards
  • Starts machine to begin production and observes machine operations for evidence of malfunction and products for defects
  • Maintains, oils, and cleans machines on a regular basis
  • Drains and cleans oil trays; dumps scrap, and sweeps floor to maintain housekeeping standards
  • Ensures all quality and safety documentation is completed with oversight

Qualifications:
  • High School diploma or the equivalent required; Associates degree preferred
  • Prior experience operating single and multi-die header machines
  • Continuous Improvement Mindset
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating, and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
  • Ability to complete routine production and quality reports
  • Ability to lift up to 40 pounds
  • Understanding and compliance with safety rules and regulations
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

Compensation Information:
$22.00 - $28.00

What Illinois Tool Works employees say

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About Illinois Tool Works

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ITW is a global industrial company built around a differentiated and proprietary business model. The company’s seven industry-leading segments leverage the unique ITW Business Model to drive solid growth with best-in-class margins and returns in markets where highly innovative, customer-focused solutions are required. From state-of-the-art dishwashers, ovens and refrigerators in restaurants and hotels, to automobile components inside vehicles all over the world ... the products we manufacture and the solutions we design are all around us. The buildings where we live and work are built with ITW construction and welding products, and our ITW test & measurement solutions help to ensure the quality and safety of millions of products. ITW’s dedicated colleagues around the world thrive in the company’s decentralized and entrepreneurial culture. Our leaders have deep expertise in the ITW Business Model and leverage it to deliver superior performance and value to our customers.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Glenview, IL, US

Year founded

1912

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