1st Shift Cold Header Operator Apprentice
About The Position
Optimas is hiring motivated individuals for a paid, hands-on, two-year Cold Header Operator Apprenticeship Program in Wood Dale, Illinois. No prior cold heading experience is required. Apprentices receive on-the-job training, mentorship, and progressive skill development while learning to set up and operate cold heading equipment. Training covers machine adjustments and troubleshooting, blueprint and work-instruction reading, wire grades and material identification, measuring tools, quality inspection and SPC, preventative maintenance, cold forming and fastener manufacturing processes, and manufacturing safety. The position pays $22.00 per hour in Year 1 and $24.00 per hour in Year 2. The program offers paid employment, hands-on training, mentorship, progressive wage increases, and opportunities for career advancement. Successful completion may lead to a Cold Header Operator position, depending on performance, attendance, qualifications, and business needs. Apprentices may also earn industry-recognized apprenticeship credentials upon successfully completing program requirements. The work involves operating around machinery and manufacturing equipment, noise, moving equipment, oils, and varying temperatures. Physical requirements include lifting up to 50 pounds; standing, walking, bending, stooping, and performing repetitive movements for extended periods; and wearing required PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toe footwear.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn.
- Interest in manufacturing, machining, or mechanical systems.
- Ability to perform basic math and read measurements.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Basic computer skills.
- Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
- Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and perform repetitive movements for extended periods.
- Ability to safely work around machinery and manufacturing equipment.
- Ability to wear required PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toe footwear.
- Ability to work around noise, moving equipment, oils, and varying temperatures.
Nice To Haves
- Previous manufacturing experience is preferred but not required.
Responsibilities
- Learn to safely set up and operate cold heading machines.
- Inspect incoming wire, materials, and finished products to ensure quality standards are met.
- Use measuring equipment to verify product dimensions.
- Follow work instructions, safety procedures, and production requirements.
- Complete quality and production documentation.
- Assist with routine maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
- Participate in all required apprenticeship training.
- Work effectively with trainers, supervisors, and team members.
Benefits
- Paid employment and hands-on training.
- Mentorship and progressive skill development.
- Progressive wage increases.
- Opportunities for career advancement.
- Possibility of earning industry-recognized apprenticeship credentials upon successful completion of program requirements.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
