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Hot Header Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Hot Header Operator information

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$16

$28

$51

How much do hot header operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for hot header operator in the United States is $28.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hot Header Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hot Header Operator, you need a solid understanding of industrial machinery, metalworking processes, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with forging presses, heating equipment, and quality control systems is typically required, along with certifications in machine operation or safety (such as OSHA). Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining product quality, ensuring workplace safety, and optimizing production efficiency in a manufacturing environment.

What are Hot Header Operators?

Hot Header Operators are skilled workers who operate machines that heat and form metal headers, which are typically used in manufacturing bolts, fasteners, and other metal components. They set up, monitor, and adjust hot heading machines to ensure proper shaping and quality of the finished product. The job requires knowledge of metalworking processes, safety protocols, and the ability to troubleshoot equipment. Hot Header Operators play a critical role in ensuring that the manufactured parts meet precise specifications. The position often requires physical stamina and attention to detail due to the demanding nature of the work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Hot Header Operators and how can they be effectively managed?

Hot Header Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining safety in high-temperature environments, ensuring product quality, and minimizing machine downtime. It is vital to stay vigilant about safety procedures, use personal protective equipment, and communicate clearly with team members. Regular equipment inspections and ongoing training help operators quickly identify and resolve issues, ensuring smooth workflow and consistent product output. Collaborating closely with maintenance and quality control teams also supports better problem-solving and continuous improvement.

What is the difference between Hot Header Operator vs Pipe Fitter?

AspectHot Header OperatorPipe Fitter
CredentialsTypically requires safety certifications and technical training specific to header operationRequires pipefitting certifications, technical training, and sometimes welding licenses
Work EnvironmentOperates in industrial plants, refineries, or manufacturing facilities focusing on header systemsWorks in construction sites, industrial plants, or maintenance settings installing and repairing piping
Industry UsageCommonly used in oil & gas, chemical, and manufacturing industriesWidely used across construction, oil & gas, and industrial sectors

The Hot Header Operator primarily focuses on operating and maintaining header systems in industrial settings, requiring specific safety and technical certifications. In contrast, a Pipe Fitter specializes in installing and repairing piping systems, often involving welding and physical assembly. While both roles work in industrial environments and share some certifications, their core responsibilities and focus areas differ significantly.

More about Hot Header Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Hot Header Operator jobs? Cities with the most Hot Header Operator job openings:
What states have the most Hot Header Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Hot Header Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Hot Header Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hot Header Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Hot Header Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,731 per year, or $28.2 per hour.
Machining Tech VI, Heading

Machining Tech VI, Heading

Howmet Aerospace

City Of Industry, CA

$28 - $44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Howmet Fastening Systems (HFS) is seeking a Machining Tech, Heading for our City of Industry, California location.

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 $7.4 Billion in revenue in 2024, 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 2024 Environmental Social and Governance report at www.howmet.com/esg-report. Follow: LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Born from many well-known and long-standing brands, Howmet Fastening Systems, headquartered in Torrance, California, is the premier designer and manufacturer of aerospace and industrial fasteners, latches, fluid fittings and installation tools. Our products are used nose to tail on commercial and military aircraft, as well as on jet engines, industrial gas turbines, automobiles, commercial transportation vehicles, wind turbines, solar power systems, and construction and industrial equipment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities  include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

•    Good communication skills & knowledge of basic shop math                                               
•    Able to read, write and understand basic instructions in English                            
•    Ability to write routine reports and correspondence                                           
•    Able to lift/move up to 30 pounds regularly   
•    Able to learn how to use measurement instruments                                                                                    
•    Ability to follow direction
•    Ability to complete first piece verification 
•    Maintain a good attitude and be willing to learn
•    Communicates effectively with other team members and Production Team Leader
•    Be familiar with Human Performance tasks  
•    Able to perform entry level set-ups                                              
•    Understand the speeds and feeds pertaining to the machine they are operating (where applicable)                  
•    Knowledge of all measuring instruments and gages for their operation
•    Able to speak effectively before groups of co-workers, customers, auditors, etc. 
•    Able to read and interpret blue prints
•    Working knowledge in manufacturing and quality processes and principles 
•    Able to comply to all SPC daily Requirements (if applicable)
•    Able to understand and maintain machine complements (when applicable)
•    LOTO certified
•    Able to assist supervisor and lead person in the training of Machining Tech I-III 
•    Able to cross train in other areas as required 
•    Able to understand and meet department goals & metrics 
•    Participate in ABS Kaizen events as required
•    Able to assist supervisor and lead person in the training of Machining Tech I-VI
•    Able to train Machining Tech I-V at 2 or more different operations
•    Able to create own layout from part print and determine RPM and cycle times (if applicable)
•    Ability to use and demonstrate expertise in area to make recommendations to management to improve design, material, productivity, and/or machining 
•    Have the ability to support other Howmet facilities 
•    Able to demonstrate excellent troubleshooting skills 
•    Independently sets up, operates, and trouble shoots machinery for self/others
•    Able to operate all standard machines related to the process in their assigned process
•    Able to run saws independently 
•    Able to make own tooling related to heading
•    Able to run the 80 and 100 ton independently
•    Proficiently run the cut off machines
•    Able to run and set-up hot and single die headers independently 
•    Able to be run and set-up independently 56 National Multi-die headers
•    Able to run and set-up independently 89 National Multi-die headers
•    Able to be run and set-up independently HH1012, multi die header
 


Basic Qualifications:

•    Minimum of 10 years’ experience as a machinist required

•    Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

•    This position entails access to export-controlled items and employment offers are conditioned upon an applicant’s ability to lawfully obtain access to such items.

Preferred Qualifications:

•    Highschool or GED preferred 

Benefits/Salary:

The position includes competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), excellent 401k matching program, paid holidays and vacation. The salary range for this position is $28hr to $44hr


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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