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Plastic Thermoforming Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Plastic Molding Technology (PMT) manufactures high precision plastic parts for automotive ... The primary manufacturing processes are injection molding and thermoforming. PMT has ~100 injection ...

Plastic Molding Technology (PMT) manufactures high precision plastic parts for automotive ... The primary manufacturing processes are injection molding and thermoforming. PMT has ~100 injection ...

Thermoforming - Process Technician

Bridgeview, IL ยท On-site

$38.81 - $49.89/hr

... and/or Plastics Machine Operator??? If so WE ARE LOOKING FOR YOU!!! Thermoforming Process ... Update, review and provide recommendations to plant Process Engineer for process sheet updates

Thermoforming - Process Technician

Bridgeview, IL ยท On-site

$38.81 - $49.89/hr

... and/or Plastics Machine Operator??? If so WE ARE LOOKING FOR YOU!!! Thermoforming Process ... Update, review and provide recommendations to plant Process Engineer for process sheet updates

CNC Machinist Programmer

Fort Wayne, IN ยท On-site

$24.25 - $35.55/hr

... plastic thermoforming industry including but not limited to quality prototyping, assists ... Programming, part setup, tool calibration, cutting parameters, file management, and file storage ...

Thermoforming - Process Technician

Bridgeview, IL ยท On-site

$38.81 - $49.89/hr

... and/or Plastics Machine Operator??? If so WE ARE LOOKING FOR YOU!!! Thermoforming Process ... Update, review and provide recommendations to plant Process Engineer for process sheet updates

CNC Machinist Programmer

Fort Wayne, IN ยท On-site

$24.50 - $33.50/hr

... plastic thermoforming industry including but not limited to quality prototyping, assists ... Programming, part setup, tool calibration, cutting parameters, file management, and file storage ...

Thermoforming - Process Technician

Bridgeview, IL ยท On-site

$38.81 - $49.89/hr

... and/or Plastics Machine Operator??? If so WE ARE LOOKING FOR YOU!!! Thermoforming Process ... Update, review and provide recommendations to plant Process Engineer for process sheet updates

Senior Plastics and Composites Engineer

Evans, GA ยท On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

... Engineer and work on a variety of growth initiatives in the electric and ICE vehicle space. The ... thermoforming). * Understanding of all processes to manufacture plastic components: injection ...

Showing results 21-40

Plastic Thermoforming Engineer information

See salary details

$37K

$87.2K

$136.5K

How much do plastic thermoforming engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastic thermoforming engineer in the United States is $87,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $97,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a plastic thermoforming engineer do?

A Plastic Thermoforming Engineer specializes in the design, development, and optimization of thermoforming processes used to shape plastic materials into products or packaging. They work with machinery that heats plastic sheets and molds them into specific forms, ensuring product quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Their responsibilities often include selecting materials, troubleshooting process issues, and implementing improvements to increase productivity and reduce waste.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plastic thermoforming engineer?

To excel as a Plastic Thermoforming Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or chemical engineering, materials science, and experience with polymers, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software, thermoforming machinery, and quality control systems is typically required, and certifications in plastics engineering can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot production issues. These skills are crucial for optimizing manufacturing processes, ensuring product quality, and driving innovation in plastic product development.

What are some common challenges faced by plastic thermoforming engineers during the product development process?

Plastic Thermoforming Engineers often encounter challenges related to material selection, process optimization, and meeting tight tolerances. Ensuring consistent product quality while balancing cycle times and minimizing waste can be demanding, especially when working with complex shapes or thin-gauge materials. Additionally, close collaboration with design, tooling, and quality teams is essential to address issues like warping, uneven thickness, or surface defects early in the development cycle. Being proactive in troubleshooting and open to iterative improvements helps achieve efficient production and high-quality results.

What is the difference between Plastic Thermoforming Engineer vs Plastic Manufacturing Technician?

AspectPlastic Thermoforming EngineerPlastic Manufacturing Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldHigh school diploma or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and process optimization in manufacturing settingsOperating machinery and quality control on the production floor
ResponsibilitiesDesigning thermoforming processes, troubleshooting, improving efficiencySetting up equipment, monitoring production, performing inspections

The Plastic Thermoforming Engineer focuses on designing and improving thermoforming processes, requiring engineering credentials, and works mainly in design and development roles. In contrast, the Plastic Manufacturing Technician handles daily production tasks, operating equipment and ensuring quality. Both roles are essential in the plastic manufacturing industry but differ in scope, responsibilities, and required qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Plastic Thermoforming Engineer jobs?

For Plastic Thermoforming Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Plastic Thermoforming Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,220 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

CNC Operator Programmer

Tempe, AZ โ€ข On-site

Global Thermoforming Inc
Plastics Product Manufacturingย โ€ขย 11 - 50 employees

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Global Thermoforming Inc. is expanding, and we’re looking for a skilled CNC Operator with programming experience to join our growing team. If you take pride in precision, efficiency, and producing high-quality parts, we want to hear from you.

What You’ll Do

  • Set up, operate, and run CNC mills and/or routers
  • Program parts using CAM software (Fusion 360, Mastercam, or similar)
  • Interpret blueprints, CAD models, and work instructions
  • Optimize tool paths and machining processes for efficiency
  • Perform quality checks using measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, etc.)
  • Troubleshoot machining issues and make real-time adjustments
  • Collaborate with engineering and production teams

What We’re Looking For

  • 3+ years CNC operating experience (mills, routers, or similar)
  • Strong programming experience (G-code and/or CAM software)
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings
  • Attention to detail and commitment to quality
  • Experience with plastics and/or aluminum machining is a plus
  • Reliable, self-motivated, and team-oriented

What We Offer

  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Stable, growing company with long-term opportunity
  • Clean, well-equipped shop environment
  • Opportunity to work on diverse, custom projects
  • Health benefits and paid time off (if applicable)

Why Global Thermoforming?

We’re more than just a plastics manufacturer—we’re a full-service fabrication partner offering CNC machining, forming, finishing, and assembly all under one roof. You’ll be part of a team that values craftsmanship, innovation, and getting the job done right.

Company Description

Small business, family oriented. Have been in business for 31 years.