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Plastic Thermoforming Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Method Associates

Thermoforming Machine Operator

Keyport, NJ · On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

Experience working with plastics or thermoforming is a big plus, as well as mechanic or other hands ... Previous machine operator or manufacturing experience preferred * Plastics or thermoforming ...

General Plastics, Inc.

Machine Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator will set up, operate, and monitor plastic thermoforming and related production equipment to meet quality and output standards. Daily responsibilities include loading materials ...

Home Brands Group LLC

Machine Operator

Phoenix, AZ

$18 - $19/hr

Machine Operator Pay: Starting at $18.00-$19.00 per hour (DOE) Job Type: Full-Time Schedule: Monday ... Set up and operate plastic thermoforming machines. * Load and inspect plastic materials prior to ...

Toppan

Machine Operator (Thermoforming)

Huntley, IL · On-site

$24.89/hr

Machine Operator with Thermoforming Experience Location: Huntley (F135 Main - 11320 E. Main Street, Huntley, IL 60142) Shift: 1st Shift | 5:00 AM - 3:30 PM Pay Rate: $24.89/hour Summary Description ...

Toppan

Machine Operator (Thermoforming)

Huntley, IL · On-site

$24.89/hr

Machine Operator with Thermoforming Experience Location: Huntley (F135 Main - 11320 E. Main Street, Huntley, IL 60142) Shift: 1st Shift | 5:00 AM - 3:30 PM Pay Rate: $24.89/hour Summary Description ...

CPP Industries

Machine Operator

Burlingame, CA

$27/hr

Our plastics thermoforming team is now seeking Machine Operators, Quality Inspectors, Packers, and more! This job runs Monday-Friday or Sunday-Thursday from either 7:00am-3:30pm, 3:30pm-Midnight, or ...

East Jordan Plastics

Extruder Operator

Beaverton, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Set up and operate extrusion and thermoforming machines to manufacture plastic products according ... Proven experience operating plastics extrusion and/or thermoforming equipment * Strong ...

East Jordan Plastics

Extruder Operator

Beaverton, MI · On-site

$18.52 - $26.31/hr

Set up and operate extrusion and thermoforming machines to manufacture plastic products according ... Proven experience operating plastics extrusion and/or thermoforming equipment * Strong ...

Synerfac Technical Staffing

Machine Operator

Shelton, CT · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Machine Operator Job Summary: My client is a global manufacturer of plastic food containers. We are ... Plastics - PA66 Materials Experience * Injection Molding Experience * Thermoforming Experience

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Plastic Thermoforming Machine Operator information

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How much do plastic thermoforming machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic thermoforming machine operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a plastic thermoforming machine operator do?

A Plastic Thermoforming Machine Operator sets up, operates, and monitors machines that heat and mold plastic sheets into specific shapes for products or packaging. They are responsible for adjusting machine settings, loading materials, and inspecting finished parts for quality. Operators also perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot issues to ensure efficient production. Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols are essential in this role.

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

To thrive as a Plastic Thermoforming Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, attention to detail, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with thermoforming machinery, quality control systems, and basic mechanical tools is typically required, with some employers preferring candidates who have completed safety or manufacturing certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, dependability, and effective communication help operators address issues quickly and work efficiently within production teams. These skills ensure the safe and consistent production of high-quality plastic products while minimizing downtime and waste.

What are some common challenges plastic thermoforming machine operators face during production runs?

Plastic Thermoforming Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting machine malfunctions, and minimizing material waste. Operators must closely monitor machine settings and product output to quickly identify defects or irregularities. Effective communication with maintenance staff and quality control teams is essential to resolve issues promptly and keep production on track. Being proactive and detail-oriented helps operators manage these challenges and ensure smooth, efficient operations.

What is the difference between Plastic Thermoforming Machine Operator vs Plastic Fabricator?

AspectPlastic Thermoforming Machine OperatorPlastic Fabricator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, operating machineryWorkshops, fabrication shops, using hand tools and machinery
Industry UsagePlastic manufacturing, packaging, automotive partsCustom plastic products, prototypes, and assemblies

The Plastic Thermoforming Machine Operator primarily focuses on operating and maintaining thermoforming machines to produce plastic parts, while the Plastic Fabricator handles cutting, assembling, and finishing plastic components. Both roles require knowledge of plastics and safety procedures, but the Machine Operator emphasizes machinery operation, whereas the Fabricator emphasizes manual craftsmanship and assembly skills.

What are popular job titles related to Plastic Thermoforming Machine Operator jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Plastic Thermoforming Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Thermoforming Machine Operator

Keyport, NJ • On-site

Method Associates
See more jobs at Method Associatesexternal

$17.50 - $21/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Method Associates, Inc. in Keyport, NJ is looking for a Thermoforming Machine Operator to join our team.


We are looking for someone who is dependable, mechanically inclined, and comfortable working with machinery. Previous experience operating manufacturing equipment is preferred. Experience working with plastics or thermoforming is a big plus, as well as mechanic or other hands-on mechanical experience.


This position requires a flexible schedule. Hours will vary based on production needs and may include mornings, late nights, and weekends.


Responsibilities:

  • Set up and operate thermoforming and other production equipment
  • Perform machine setups and changeovers between jobs
  • Make adjustments to equipment as needed during production
  • Troubleshoot basic mechanical and equipment issues
  • Complete all required production paperwork, including machine setup sheets, job notes, and other job documentation
  • Make sure paperwork is completed accurately and returned to the front office
  • Follow job specifications, work instructions, and safety procedures
  • Assist with routine equipment maintenance and upkeep
  • Keep machines and work areas clean and organized
  • Work with the production team to keep jobs running according to schedule

Qualifications:

  • Must be mechanically inclined and comfortable working with machinery
  • Must have a flexible schedule with availability for mornings, late nights, and weekends as production needs require
  • Previous machine operator or manufacturing experience preferred
  • Plastics or thermoforming experience is a big plus
  • Mechanic or other hands-on mechanical experience is a plus
  • Ability to troubleshoot basic mechanical and equipment issues
  • Must be able to accurately complete required job paperwork
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Dependable, responsible, and willing to learn
  • Able to work independently and as part of a team

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Salary based on experience
  • Medical benefits
  • 401(k)
  • Additional company benefits


About Method Associates


Method Associates, Inc. is a custom thermoform manufacturing and packaging company located in Keyport, New Jersey. We have been providing custom thermoforming solutions for more than 60 years and work with customers across a variety of industries, including medical, aerospace/military, and specialty packaging.


Interested in joining our team?

  • Apply through LinkedIn for consideration.


**NO STAFFING AGENCIES OR RECRUITERS. THANK YOU.**

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