Thermoformer

Position Summary:

The Thermoformer I is an entry-level position within the Thermoforming Operations department of a plastic manufacturing facility. Under direct supervision, the Thermoformer I assists in the operation of thermoforming equipment used to heat, shape, and form thermoplastic sheet materials into finished or semi-finished parts and products. This role focuses on learning machine operation fundamentals, developing an understanding of plastic materials and forming processes, and building foundational quality inspection and workplace safety skills. Candidates are expected to demonstrate a strong work ethic, mechanical aptitude, and the willingness to grow within a structured manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities (but not limited to):

Machine Operation & Production Support

• Assist in the setup, loading, and operation of vacuum forming, pressure forming, and twin-sheet thermoforming machines under the guidance of a senior operator or supervisor.
• Load thermoplastic sheet stock (ABS, HIPS, PET, PETG, HDPE, PP, and similar materials) into machine clamp frames according to work order specifications.
• Monitor forming cycles including oven heat zones, forming pressure, cycle time, and cooling duration; report parameter deviations to the lead operator immediately.
• Remove formed parts from molds carefully to avoid deformation, scratching, or dimensional distortion; stack and stage parts per work instructions.
• Operate ancillary equipment including routers, trimmers, band saws, and drill presses to perform basic post-forming trimming operations under supervision.
• Assist with mold changeovers by moving tooling, cleaning mold surfaces, and staging materials as directed by the lead operator or supervisor.
• Maintain accurate production counts and report output data on production logs and travelers.

Quality Inspection & Documentation

• Perform visual and dimensional inspection of formed parts against approved samples, drawings, and quality acceptance criteria.
• Use basic measurement tools including tape measures, calipers, and go/no-go gauges to verify part dimensions.
• Identify and segregate non-conforming parts; tag and report rejects to the supervisor with a description of the observed defect.
• Complete production travelers, inspection logs, and shift reports accurately and on time.
• Follow all ISO quality procedures applicable to the thermoforming department; participate in 5S activities to maintain workplace organization.

Material Handling & Housekeeping

• Receive, inspect, and stage incoming plastic sheet stock; verify material type, thickness, and lot number against work order requirements.
• Properly store, rotate, and protect sheet stock to prevent warping, moisture absorption, contamination, or damage.
• Dispose of scrap plastic trim and skeletal material in designated recycling or waste streams per environmental procedures.
• Keep work areas, aisles, and equipment clean, organized, and free of hazards throughout the shift.

Safety & Compliance

• Comply with all OSHA regulations, company EHS policies, and mandatory PPE requirements at all times on the production floor.
• Follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures when assisting with equipment maintenance or mold change activities.
• Report unsafe conditions, near misses, equipment malfunctions, or injuries to the supervisor immediately.
• Handle thermoplastic materials, release agents, and cleaning solvents in accordance with SDS requirements and environmental guidelines.
• Participate in safety orientations, toolbox talks, and required EHS training programs.

Essential Skills:

· Basic mechanical aptitude and the ability to learn equipment operation through hands-on training.

· Ability to read and follow written work instructions, work orders, and basic drawings.

· Strong attention to detail with a focus on product quality and defect recognition.

· Basic math skills: whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and simple measurements.

· Ability to work at a consistent pace in a production environment with repetitive tasks.

· Dependable, punctual, and able to work rotating shifts and overtime as required by production schedules.

· Ability to work safely and cooperatively in a team-oriented manufacturing environment.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience

· High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.

· 0–1 year of manufacturing, production, or industrial experience; no prior thermoforming experience required — paid on-the-job training is provided.

· Vocational training, technical coursework, or military service with a manufacturing or mechanical focus is a plus.

Compensation / Benefits

· Competitive Salary, 401k

· Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance for all Full Time employees

Other:

Work Environment

· Work is performed in a climate-influenced plastic manufacturing facility.

· Includes elevated temperatures near oven and forming equipment, plastic fumes within permissible exposure limits, moderate-to-high noise levels, and dust from trimming operations.

· Rotating shift schedules including evenings and occasional weekends are required to meet production demands. All safety protocols, PPE requirements, and environmental controls are strictly enforced throughout the facility.

Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $22