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Heading Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MS Aerospace

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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° ...

Mancan

Machine Operator

Streetsboro, OH · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Northfield Mancan is assisting a company in Streetsboro to fill a position as a Cold Heading & Tapping Machine Operators. You will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines ...

Howmet

Machining Tech VI, Heading

City Of Industry, CA

$20.25 - $26/hr

... Heading for our City of Industry, California location. Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM ... Understand the speeds and feeds pertaining to the machine they are operating (where applicable)

Aerotek

Machine Set Up Operator

North Branch, MN

$20 - $28/hr

You do not need prior cold heading experience; the team will provide thorough training for the ... Experience operating or setting up ACME screw machines. * Exposure to cold heading processes or ...

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How much do heading operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 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 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 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 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 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
Cold Header

Cold Header

MS Aerospace

Sylmar, CA • On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

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Job description

M.S. Aerospace Inc. (MSA) is an aerospace manufacturer of high strength specialty fasteners, including bolts, screws, studs, and pins. Our products are of the highest quality and very close tolerances. Our products support the US Government, including the ISS, Space Shuttle and the most demanding defense equipment. We also support the most demanding OEMs in the commercial aviation industry.
We offer a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and a monthly bonus.
Join one of the fastest-growing aerospace companies by applying now!
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° to create a head on the bolt. Ability to go through the three progressive stations to complete the end product. Experience with materials such as inconel, titanium, 8740, and 4340 preferred. National #89 or Okuma 2 dies 3 blows preferred.
Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent. Basic math skills and English reading skills. Lifting up to 25 lbs and moving 40 lbs pans with dollies. Simple blue print reading and ability to use precision measuring tools (comparators and gages) a plus.
Reporting Relationships: Report to the Cold Heading supervisor
Working Conditions: All day standing, repetitive manual motion, heavy physical work. Standing most of the time. Candidate will be working on a powerful cold header machine to run batches of high strength bolts at a constant heated temperature of 1000°-1100°
Success Factors: Willingness to learn and teach, attention to details, ability to work in a group and to memorize simple procedures for machining and checking. Bi-lingual is preferred. Good communication skills a plus
Position type:
Requires full work time only. 8 hours a shift- Monday to Friday - overtime expected depending on production needs. Regular attendance is an essential job function.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. He or she will be required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other duties requested by his or her supervisor.
M.S. Aerospace Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
M.S. Aerospace Inc. will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of Los Angeles Municipal Code, Chapter XVIII, Article 9.
M.S. Aerospace Inc. 13928 Balboa Blvd Sylmar, CA 91342.

Company Description

MSA is a leading manufacturer in the aerospace industry of high-quality specialty fasteners for aerospace, medical and other high performance, applications.
M.S. Aerospace, Inc., a leading manufacturer of aerospace products and parts, has the following open degreed/experienced position(s) available in Sylmar, CA:
Materials Engineer
Evaluates materials and develops machinery and processes to manufacture materials for use in products to meet specialized designs and performance specifications. Performs manufacturing engineering duties such as: read blueprints, use various inspection gages (micrometer, caliper, indicator, comparator) test equipment (microscope, hardness tester, torque tester). Gathers and analyzes information skillfully. Develops alternative solutions as required under the circumstances. Prioritizes and plans work activities making use of time efficiently. Defines and analyzes problems in a timely manner and consistently meets project time deadlines. Performs engineering work related to planning, devising, or adapting methods to improve manufacturing production. Examines equipment, processes, operations, and assembly to determine time or quality revisions and suggests improvements. Responsible for carrying out changes and monitoring operations standards. Analyzes product failure date and laboratory tests results to determine causes of problems and develop solutions. Designs and directs testing or control of processing procedures, monitors material performance and evaluates deterioration. Conducts and supervises tests on raw materials or finished products to ensure their quality. Determines appropriate methods for fabricating and joining materials. Assists and guides technical staff in developing materials for specific uses in products and devices.
Will accept a Master's degree or foreign academic equivalent in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or related field.
40 hours/week; $99,278.00 - $105,000.00/year
Apply on-line w/ ref# at:
https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=28120&clientkey=6549A71482ECAC187AC7A85B5B90A8DD
Reference Number: HS-MSA
EEO employer: including race, gender, disability & veteran status.
We offer Medical, Dental, Vision, and 401K benefits.