Thermoforming Tech

Join Our Team: Experienced Thermoforming / Plastic Manufacturing Machine Operator Wanted! 

Build Quality Products. Solve Complex Challenges. Lead Production Excellence.

Are you a hands-on manufacturing professional who thrives in a fast-paced production environment? We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Machine Operator / Setup Technician to join our team. This role is ideal for someone with strong technical expertise in plastic manufacturing, machine setup, troubleshooting, and quality control who takes pride in producing exceptional products while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Position Summary

The Machine Operator / Setup Technician is responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining manufacturing equipment to ensure efficient production and superior product quality. This position plays a critical role in machine optimization, troubleshooting, preventative maintenance, and production support across multiple manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Setup & Operation

• Configure and prepare production equipment for optimal performance.
• Select and install dies, calibrate temperature zones, and adjust pressure, vacuum, and timing settings based on material specifications and product requirements.
• Load and manage raw materials, including plastic stock and hopper-fed materials, to maintain consistent production flow.
• Monitor machine performance and make real-time adjustments to maximize efficiency and product quality.
• Maintain accurate production settings and process controls throughout production runs.

Quality Control & Precision

• Conduct routine inspections during production to ensure products meet quality and customer specifications.
• Monitor aesthetics, color consistency, product alignment, edge definition, and overall product appearance.
• Use precision measuring instruments such as calipers, gauges, and micrometers to verify dimensions and tolerances.
• Identify and correct defects including webbing, cracking, warping, thickness inconsistencies, and other quality concerns.
• Maintain compliance with all quality assurance and manufacturing standards.

Troubleshooting & Maintenance

• Lead the diagnosis and resolution of machine and process issues, including material flow disruptions, equipment jams, die adjustments, and thickness variations.
• Analyze production challenges and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime.
• Perform preventive maintenance, including cleaning molds and rollers, lubricating moving components, replacing consumable items, and completing scheduled equipment inspections.
• Support general molding maintenance activities and equipment reliability initiatives.
• Assist with technical oversight of automation systems, injection molding equipment, cooling systems, and related manufacturing operations.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all company safety procedures, policies, and operational guidelines.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with 5S and safety standards.
• Ensure equipment maintenance schedules are completed and documented.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Apply today and become part of a team dedicated to innovation, quality, and manufacturing excellence!

Qualifications & Requirements

Required

• High school diploma or GED.
• 3+ years of machine operation, machine setup, or manufacturing technician experience.
• Experience working with plastic manufacturing, thermoforming, extrusion, injection molding, or similar production processes.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read and interpret production specifications, work instructions, and technical documents.
• Experience using precision measurement tools such as calipers, gauges, and micrometers.
• Knowledge of quality control procedures and manufacturing best practices.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Preferred

• Experience with thermoforming equipment and tooling.
• Background in plastics manufacturing or packaging production.
• Preventive maintenance and equipment repair experience.
• Knowledge of automation systems and industrial controls.
• Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience.