Job Information
Aerotek Cold Header Operator in Loves Park, Illinois
Job Title: Cold Header Operator – 2nd Shift
Job Description
This role sets up and operates cold heading or roll threading equipment while serving as a key trainer for new hires on 2nd shift. You will spend most of your time coaching and developing operators on safe, accurate, and efficient machine operation, while also performing hands-on setup, operation, and quality checks. This position is ideal for an experienced cold heading or roll threading professional who enjoys mentoring others and is committed to working on 2nd shift.
Responsibilities
Train new hires on cold heading or roll threading equipment, typically working with 2–3 trainees at a time for up to 6 months depending on their progression.
Spend approximately 80% of the time training new hires and 20% of the time performing machine setup and operation.
Set up and operate cold heading or threading equipment, depending on area of greatest expertise.
Teach and perform inspection of parts to verify dimensional data and product quality.
Read and interpret blueprints and use them to guide setup, operation, and quality checks.
Maintain and care for tools required for cold heading or threading operations.
Maintain all aspects of machines from initial setup through ongoing operation to ensure consistent performance.
Ensure production meets scheduled delivery requirements and quality standards.
Use micrometers, calipers, gauges, and other quality tooling to verify measurements and tolerances.
Use hand and power tools safely and effectively during setup, adjustment, and maintenance tasks.
Model and promote safe work practices and adherence to all shop procedures during training and daily work.
Demonstrate and reinforce strong math aptitude, attention to detail, and a sense of urgency in a fast-paced environment.
Work both independently and as part of a team to meet production and training goals.
Demonstrate and promote core values of ambition, innovation, integrity, and teamwork in daily interactions.
Lift, slide, carry, and lower materials and packages typically weighing 25–50 lbs, and occasionally up to 100 lbs, as part of normal operations.
Essential Skills
4+ years of cold head or roll thread setup experience.
2+ years of experience using micrometers, calipers, and gauges.
2+ years of experience using hand and power tools in a machine shop or similar environment.
1+ year of leadership and/or training experience in a production or machine shop setting.
Proficiency in setting up and operating cold heading and/or roll threading equipment.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints accurately.
Proficiency with quality tooling associated with cold heading or threading machines.
Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of machine operation.
Strong math skills, attention to detail, and a clear sense of urgency.
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
Ability to learn and perform multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Physical ability to regularly lift, slide, carry, and lower 25–50 lbs and occasionally up to 100 lbs.
Willingness and ability to work and remain on 2nd shift.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Previous experience in a machine shop environment.
Experience with roll forming processes.
Demonstrated ability to train and mentor new operators effectively.
Consistent demonstration of ambition, innovation, integrity, and teamwork.
Strong communication skills to explain technical processes clearly during training.
Organizational skills to manage multiple trainees and tasks simultaneously.
Why Work Here?
The company offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports both your health and your financial future, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, HSA options, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan with company match. You receive paid holidays and paid time off that grow with your tenure, supporting a healthy work-life balance. You join a culture that values ambition, innovation, integrity, and teamwork, and encourages you to develop your skills in a supportive, growth-oriented environment.
Work Environment
You will work in a shop-like manufacturing environment on 2nd shift, with hours from 2:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday. The role involves regular use of cold heading or threading machines, quality tooling such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges, and common hand and power tools. The environment is fast-paced and production-focused, with an emphasis on safety, teamwork, and continuous training. There is no mandatory overtime; any additional hours are on a voluntary basis. Appropriate shop attire is expected to support safety and comfort around machinery and equipment.
Job Type & Location
This is a Permanent position based out of Loves Park, IL.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $52000.00 - $62400.00/yr.
Offer Medical, dental and vision HSA and Life Insurance offered 401k w/ match Holiday and PTO depending on tenure with the company
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Loves Park,IL.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Apr 29, 2026.
About Aerotek:
We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.
Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.