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Thermoforming Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Overview The Thermoforming/Extrusion Operator works at the direction of the Production Senior Lead and the Production Supervisor to ensure that the company safely and efficiently produces the highest ...

We offer a comprehensive range of services, including custom structural and graphic design, thermoforming, mold building, printing, and fulfillment. Known for innovative and sustainable packaging ...

PM THERMOFORMING

Avondale, AZ ยท On-site

$15.86/hr

The PM Thermoforming Machine Operator is responsible for operating machinery that transforms recycled plastic into sustainable egg cartons. This role includes setting up, monitoring, and maintaining ...

Thermoforming Operator

Shreveport, LA ยท On-site

$10 - $20/hr

The Thermoformer Manufacturer & Assembler is responsible for operating thermoforming equipment, fabricating plastic components, and assembling finished products to meet quality and production ...

PM THERMOFORMING

Avondale, AZ ยท On-site

$15.86/hr

The PM Thermoforming Machine Operator is responsible for operating machinery that transforms recycled plastic into sustainable egg cartons. This role includes setting up, monitoring, and maintaining ...

Night-Thermoforming Operator

Dallas, TX ยท On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Focus/Objective The Thermoforming Operator Assistant will support the plant activities by assisting in the setup, operation, and maintenance of thermoforming machines to ensure efficient production.

Thermoforming Operator I Location: Franklin Park,IL Shift: 3rd Shift | 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM Pay Rate: $20.69/hour + $1.25 shift differential Summary Description The Thermoforming Operator I is ...

Thermoforming Operatror|Mineral Wells, West Virginia|Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate from $ 17.95 per hour -Paid Weekly- plus $1 shift differential! * Eligible for annual & skill-based ...

Thermoforming Operatror|Mineral Wells, West Virginia|Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate from $ 17.95 per hour -Paid Weekly- plus $1 shift differential! * Eligible for annual & skill-based ...

Thermoforming Operatror|Mineral Wells, West Virginia|Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate from $ 17.95 per hour -Paid Weekly- plus $1 shift differential! * Eligible for annual & skill-based ...

Thermoforming Operatror|Mineral Wells, West Virginia|Now Hiring Compensation: * Starting pay rate from $ 17.95 per hour -Paid Weekly- plus $1 shift differential! * Eligible for annual & skill-based ...

Thermoforming Operator I Location: Franklin Park,IL Shift: 3rd Shift | 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM Pay Rate: $20.69/hour + $1.25 shift differential Summary Description The Thermoforming Operator I is ...

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Thermoforming Operator

Alcoa, TN ยท On-site

$18/hr

Thermoforming Operators Express Employment Professionals is hiring Thermoforming Operators for an environmentally friendly paper product manufacturer in Vonore TN. Responsibilities: * Sustains ...

Lead and oversee complex thermoforming research, product development, and advanced process programs using DOE, DFSS, and structured stagegated methodologies. * Discover, evaluate, and initiate ...

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Thermoforming information

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How much do thermoforming jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for thermoforming in the United States is $18.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Thermoforming vs Vacuum Forming?

AspectThermoformingVacuum Forming
ProcessHeating plastic sheets and forming them over a mold using pressure or mechanical meansHeating plastic sheets and forming them primarily using vacuum pressure
ComplexityCan produce complex shapes with additional toolingTypically simpler, suited for basic shapes
EquipmentIncludes molds, presses, and heating elementsPrimarily vacuum forming machines and molds
ApplicationsPackaging, automotive parts, consumer productsPackaging, trays, blisters

Thermoforming and vacuum forming are closely related manufacturing processes. While both involve heating plastic sheets and shaping them over molds, thermoforming often uses additional pressure or mechanical means to achieve complex shapes, whereas vacuum forming relies mainly on vacuum pressure for forming. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right process for specific product requirements.

What Are Thermoforming Jobs?

Thermoforming involves using machines to heat plastic and form it into specific shapes. Thermoforming jobs are found in the manufacturing industry. As a thermoforming process engineer, you work to improve plastic production and materials, design machinery, and test various processes. As a thermoforming technician or machine operator, your duties involve setting up a machine to create molded plastic pieces. You operate the equipment during a production run and ensure that the resulting pieces meet quality standards. You also make adjustments during production if necessary. Other responsibilities include performing essential maintenance on the thermoforming machinery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Thermoforming Machine Operator, and why are they important?

Thriving as a Thermoforming Machine Operator requires a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with thermoforming machinery, quality inspection tools, and safety protocols is essential, and some employers may require certification in machine operation or safety standards. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient production and maintaining high product quality in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in thermoforming, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in thermoforming often encounter challenges such as material inconsistencies, machine downtime, and maintaining product quality. Ensuring proper material selection and thorough pre-production testing can help mitigate inconsistencies. Regular maintenance and calibration of thermoforming equipment are essential to reduce downtime and maintain efficiency. Additionally, close collaboration with quality control and engineering teams helps identify and resolve production issues quickly, ensuring high-quality output and smooth workflow.

What is thermoforming?

Thermoforming is a manufacturing process where a plastic sheet is heated to a pliable forming temperature, shaped into a specific form using a mold, and trimmed to create a finished part or product. This method is widely used to produce items such as packaging, trays, disposable cups, lids, and automotive parts. Thermoforming is valued for its ability to create lightweight and cost-effective products with a variety of shapes and sizes. The process can be divided into two main types: vacuum forming and pressure forming, depending on how the plastic is shaped over the mold.
What cities are hiring for Thermoforming jobs? Cities with the most Thermoforming job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Thermoforming jobs? The most popular types of Thermoforming jobs are:
What states have the most Thermoforming jobs? States with the most job openings for Thermoforming jobs include:
Infographic showing various Thermoforming job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,750 per year, or $18.1 per hour.
Thermoforming Operator

Thermoforming Operator

Republic Plastics

Knoxville, TN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Overview
The Thermoforming/Extrusion Operator works at the direction of the Production Senior Lead and the Production Supervisor to ensure that the company safely and efficiently produces the highest quality products. This person is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of all thermoforming and/or extrusion production equipment and performing minor repairs as directed or trained. Actively and professionally trains less experienced full time and temporary associates in order to meet and exceed the company's production needs.
Responsibilities
To perform this job successfully, this individual must be able to perform each job duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed in the Thermoforming/Extrusion Operator job description are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. The list of job duties for the Thermoforming/Extrusion Operator is not all-encompassing. Associates will be expected to perform all other duties that may be assigned as necessary. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. *For a detailed job description; email: RPRecruiting@republicplastics.com
Qualifications
The physical and mental abilities described on the Thermoforming/Extrusion Operator job description are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. *For a detailed job description, email: RPRecruiting@republicplastics.com
Work Experience
High School Diploma (or GED or High School Equivalence Certificate). Equivalent experience may be substituted for an educational requirement where an associate demonstrates the necessary skills and capability. Experience in Plastics Thermoforming is required.
To review the full job description, click below:
Thermoforming Operator
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.