Cold Heading Machine Operator

Caliberr Staffing; La Vergne (TN); On-site; USD 32,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Caliberr Staffing in Tennessee is seeking skilled Cold Header Operators to join our industrial manufacturing team. You will handle cold heading machinery to form metal components, focusing on setup, die/punch changeovers, and rigorous quality checks.

This hands-on role requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and comfort working in a facility with seasonal temperature changes. Earn hourly pay that reflects your experience, with lead opportunities and potential relocation support.

Qualifications

• Direct experience with cold forging or cold heading equipment.
• Experience with tooling adjustments, machine setups, and die/punch changeovers.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail.
• Experience in a manufacturing facility with variable temperatures.

Responsibilities

• Operate cold heading machinery to produce metal components.
• Configure machines and manage die and punch changeovers.
• Inspect parts throughout production for quality.
• Monitor performance and tweak operations to optimize output.
• Troubleshoot issues and assist with routine maintenance.
• Maintain a safe, compliant work environment.

Skills

Cold heading

Machine setup

Die changeovers

Inspection

Safety protocols

Tools

Mold repair

Tool setup

Die tooling

Job description

We are currently seeking skilled Cold Header Operators to join an industrial manufacturing team. We welcome applications from professionals with diverse backgrounds, ranging from those with foundational skills to seasoned lead-level experts.

In this role, you will be responsible for managing specialized cold forging equipment designed to transform metal wire into precise industrial fasteners and bolts. Please note that this is a hands‑on role focused on traditional cold heading machinery rather than CNC systems.

Core Duties

• Produce metal components by effectively managing cold heading machinery.
• Execute machine configurations and manage the replacement of dies and punches.
• Ensure product excellence by conducting thorough inspections throughout the production cycle.
• Maintain optimal machine performance by monitoring operations and performing necessary tweaks.
• Resolve production challenges and assist in keeping equipment running smoothly through routine maintenance.
• Help maintain a safe working environment for the entire team by strictly adhering to established quality and safety protocols.

Requirements

• Demonstrated history of working directly with cold forging or cold heading equipment.
• Proven capability in handling tooling adjustments, machine setups, and die/punch changeovers.
• Strong mechanical inclination paired with a sharp eye for detail.
• Backgrounds as a Metal Forming Operator, Press Setup Operator, or Die Setter are highly applicable if they involve cold heading expertise.
• Comfortable working within a manufacturing facility that lacks climate control, meaning temperatures will fluctuate seasonally.

Compensation and Details

Your hourly rate will be determined by your technical proficiency and your ability to manage setups and changeovers autonomously. Compensation ranges are structured as follows: $23–$26 per hour for those with 2–4 years of experience, and $28–$33 per hour for those with 5 or more years of experience. Lead-level roles offer negotiable pay, and we may provide relocation support for the right candidates.

Technical Proficiencies

• Expertise in progressive die metal forming and stamping.
• Ability to perform repairs on molds, dies, and tools.
• Experience in the setup of molds, dies, and tools.

Equipment and Technology

• Cold Heading Machinery
• Cold Chamber Die Casting Equipment

Questions About Available Positions?

Speak directly with our recruiting team about current opportunities and how we can help advance your career.