Vacuum Forming Setup & Operator

Summary

The Vacuum Forming Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and supporting the vacuum forming process within the plastic manufacturing department. This hands-on position ensures consistent product quality through accurate setup, process monitoring, and trimming of formed materials. The role requires strong technical skill, attention to detail, and the ability to work with various plastic materials and mold designs. The operator also provides support in training, process troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, quality, and safety in the forming area.

Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and skilled Vacuum Forming Operator to lead and support the forming process within our plastic manufacturing facility. This hands-on role involves overseeing the setup, monitoring the process, and trimming excess material.  This role requires attention to detail to ensure product quality and may involve working with different plastics and mold design. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background, leadership capabilities, and a proactive approach to process improvement and quality control.

Key Responsibilities:

What You Bring (Core Competencies)

• Equipment Operation:
   Set up, calibrate, and operate vacuum forming machines to shape plastic sheets over complex molds, ensuring precision and consistency across production runs.
• Process Monitoring:
   Monitor forming cycles — including heating, vacuum application, forming, and cooling, adjusting machine settings to optimize quality and throughput.
• Technical Leadership:
   Mentor and train junior operators on best practices, safety procedures, and efficient machine operation. Serve as a go-to resource for troubleshooting and process guidance.
• Material Management:
   Coordinate the staging, loading, and usage of various thermoplastics based on job specifications. Ensure proper storage and traceability of materials.
• Quality Control & Inspection:
   Conduct detailed inspections of formed parts for dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and structural integrity. Document and address any deviations from specifications.
• Maintenance Support:
   Perform and coordinate routine preventive maintenance and minor repairs. Collaborate with maintenance technicians to minimize downtime and improve equipment reliability.
• Safety & Compliance:
   Champion a safety-first culture by enforcing proper procedures and ensuring adherence to OSHA and company-specific safety protocols.
• Documentation & Reporting:
   Maintain accurate records of production activity, material usage, machine performance, and quality results. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives through data-driven feedback.
• Production Coordination:
   Work closely with production supervisors, engineers, and quality control to meet scheduling targets, manage workflow, and resolve process bottlenecks.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• 2 years of experience operating a forming machining center.

• Ability to program, set up, and operate. 
• Basic computer literacy for documentation and data entry.

Qualifications:

• 3 years of experience in vacuum forming or thermoforming within a plastic manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience in a senior or lead operator role.
• Strong understanding of plastic material properties and mold behavior.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and job travelers.
• Competency in using measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges).
• Solid troubleshooting and mechanical aptitude.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Work Environmental & Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods (8 hours).
• Regularly lift and maneuver parts/materials up to 25 pounds.
• Fine motor skills and manual dexterity to handle small components and tools.
• The ability to wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, shoes, gloves, and hearing protection.
• Work in a manufacturing environment exposed to moderate noise, temperature changes, and machining oils.

Additional Information

Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a reference check, background check, and drug screening.

Plastic Distributors and Fabricators is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Job Type: Full-time- 1^st shift; Expected hours:  40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Supplemental Pay:

• Overtime pay
• Quarterly bonus

Shift availability:

• Day Shift 

Ability to Commute:

• Haverhill, MA 01832 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Haverhill, MA 01832: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person