Thermoforming Machine Operator

Job Description
Job Description
YESPAC Inc. is seeking a dependable, detail-oriented, and mechanically inclined Thermoforming Machine Operator to operate production equipment used to manufacture plastic food containers, including cups, bowls, trays, lids, and other food packaging products.
The successful candidate will be responsible for operating and monitoring thermoforming machinery, maintaining consistent production output, inspecting product quality, identifying equipment issues, and following all company safety and food packaging requirements.
This position requires hands-on manufacturing experience, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced production environment. Candidates with previous experience operating thermoforming machinery in plastics manufacturing or food packaging are strongly preferred.
Candidates with direct thermoforming machine operating experience will receive priority consideration.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Machine Operation and Production
* Operate and monitor thermoforming machines used to manufacture plastic food containers and packaging products.
* Follow approved production instructions, machine settings, work orders, and supervisor directions.
* Verify the correct product, material, mold, and production specifications before starting a job.
* Monitor machine performance throughout the production run and make authorized adjustments as needed.
* Maintain production flow and meet assigned output targets while following safety and quality requirements.
* Identify production interruptions, machine malfunctions, and process irregularities and notify the appropriate supervisor.
* Follow established startup, shutdown, and changeover procedures.
2. Thermoforming Process Knowledge
* Monitor forming temperatures, cycle times, vacuum pressure, cooling, and other process conditions applicable to the assigned equipment.
* Observe the forming and trimming process to ensure containers are produced according to specifications.
* Recognize common thermoforming defects, including improper forming, warping, inconsistent thickness, incomplete trimming, and other product irregularities.
* Assist with mold changes, material changes, and product changeovers when trained and authorized.
* Verify that equipment is running within approved operating parameters.
* Work with maintenance and production leadership to address recurring machine or process problems.
3. Quality Control and Product Inspection
* Inspect finished products for defects, dimensions, appearance, and overall conformity to specifications.
* Perform required in-process quality checks and record results accurately.
* Identify and separate defective products to prevent nonconforming items from entering finished goods.
* Monitor for contamination, foreign materials, and other conditions that could compromise food-contact packaging.
* Report quality concerns immediately to the supervisor or Quality Control department.
* Follow approved procedures for handling rejected products, scrap, and rework.
4. Production Documentation and Reporting
* Accurately record production quantities, scrap, downtime, material usage, and other required information.
* Verify that production records correspond to the assigned work order and product.
* Report machine stoppages, material shortages, quality problems, and production delays promptly.
* Communicate shift updates and outstanding production issues to the appropriate team members.
* Complete all required production paperwork and system entries before the end of the shift.
5. Material Handling and Housekeeping
* Verify that the correct raw materials and supplies are available for the assigned production job.
* Assist with loading materials and replenishing supplies as trained and authorized.
* Maintain an organized machine area and keep walkways clear.
* Dispose of plastic scrap and other production waste in designated containers.
* Follow established recycling, material segregation, and waste-handling procedures.
* Clean the assigned work area and equipment according to approved procedures.
6. Safety and Food Packaging Compliance
* Follow all YESPAC safety rules, operating procedures, and supervisor instructions.
* Wear required PPE, including safety shoes, high-visibility vest, company ID, and additional protective equipment required for the work area.
* Never remove or bypass machine guards, interlocks, or emergency stops.
* Follow applicable lockout/tagout procedures and never perform unauthorized maintenance or repairs.
* Keep hands, clothing, hair, and personal items away from moving machinery.
* Maintain required hygiene and sanitation practices for food-contact packaging production.
* Immediately report injuries, near misses, unsafe conditions, and equipment defects.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
* Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment is preferred.
* Experience operating industrial machinery is strongly preferred.
* Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and production specifications.
* Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
* Ability to recognize equipment problems and report issues promptly.
* Basic math, counting, measuring, and production-recordkeeping skills.
* Ability to maintain consistent attendance and follow assigned work schedules.
* Ability to work independently and as part of a production team.
* Commitment to workplace safety, cleanliness, and quality standards.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
* Previous experience operating thermoforming machines in a plastics manufacturing facility.
* Experience manufacturing plastic cups, bowls, trays, lids, containers, or similar food packaging products.
* Familiarity with thermoforming temperatures, vacuum systems, molds, trimming stations, and production changeovers.
* Experience performing visual inspections and identifying plastic product defects.
* Familiarity with production work orders, scrap tracking, and material usage records.
* Experience working in a food-contact packaging or other quality-controlled manufacturing environment.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
* Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during the shift.
* Ability to bend, reach, and perform repetitive production tasks.
* Ability to lift, carry, and handle materials or finished products within established safety limits.
* Ability to work around operating machinery, heat, noise, and other manufacturing conditions.
* Ability to wear required PPE throughout the shift.
* Ability to maintain focus and follow safe operating procedures in a fast-paced environment.
PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS
Successful machine operators are expected to demonstrate:
* Consistent and safe machine operation.
* Achievement of assigned production targets.
* Accurate production and scrap reporting.
* Compliance with product quality specifications.
* Proper handling of raw materials and finished products.
* Timely reporting of machine problems and production interruptions.
* Clean and organized work areas.
* Reliable attendance, teamwork, and adherence to company procedures.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
YESPAC Inc. is looking for a responsible and motivated machine operator who understands that production success depends on safety, quality, efficiency, and teamwork.
The ideal candidate takes pride in producing quality plastic food containers, follows operating procedures, identifies problems before they become larger issues, and works closely with supervisors, Quality Control, and Maintenance to keep production running smoothly.