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Thermoforming Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MAKS Plastics

Plastics Engineer

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing thermoforming processes and equipment. This role requires a strong understanding of mechanical design principles ...

MAKS Plastics

Plastics Engineer

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing thermoforming processes and equipment. This role requires a strong understanding of mechanical design principles ...

Growscape

Tooling Engineering Manager

Middlefield, OH · On-site

... and thermoforming tools, including mold layouts, cooling strategies, venting, gating, and trim solutions. * Ensure tooling designs support part quality, dimensional stability, cycle time targets ...

Visa Hunt

Industrial Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

... thermoforming, additive manufacturing) and competitive products. * Translate design intent into ... designer role. * You will help define the future of our product platform: how it looks, how it ...

Lumesse

New Product Industrial Designer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

The designer will translate consumers' desires and needs into new, consumer-focused delivery ... thermoforming, etc. * Strong collaboration skills, partnering with internal and external ...

Lumesse

New Product Industrial Designer

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

The designer will translate consumers' desires and needs into new, consumer-focused delivery ... thermoforming, etc. * Strong collaboration skills, partnering with internal and external ...

Lumesse

New Product Industrial Designer

Madison, WI · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

The designer will translate consumers' desires and needs into new, consumer-focused delivery ... thermoforming, etc. * Strong collaboration skills, partnering with internal and external ...

Lumesse

New Product Industrial Designer

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

The designer will translate consumers' desires and needs into new, consumer-focused delivery ... thermoforming, etc. * Strong collaboration skills, partnering with internal and external ...

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Thermoforming Designer information

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$21.5K

$65.4K

$112K

How much do thermoforming designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for thermoforming designer in the United States is $65,444.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a thermoforming designer?

Thermoforming designers are professionals who specialize in creating designs for products and packaging made using the thermoforming process. Thermoforming is a manufacturing technique where plastic sheets are heated and formed into specific shapes using molds. Designers in this field work closely with clients and engineers to develop functional, cost-effective, and visually appealing items such as trays, containers, and custom packaging. They consider factors like material selection, mold design, and product usability to ensure the final product meets industry standards and client requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a thermoforming designer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Thermoforming Designer, you need expertise in product design, material science, and CAD software, typically supported by a degree in industrial design or engineering. Familiarity with technical tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and thermoforming simulation software is standard, and knowledge of manufacturing processes and quality standards is valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective communication help in collaborating with cross-functional teams and translating client requirements into manufacturable designs. These abilities ensure innovative, cost-effective, and functional product solutions that meet both client specifications and production constraints.

What are the most common challenges faced by thermoforming designers, and how can they be addressed?

Thermoforming designers often encounter challenges such as material selection, ensuring part consistency, and balancing cost-efficiency with product quality. Managing shrinkage, draft angles, and undercuts in the design phase is crucial to avoid production issues. Effective collaboration with engineers, toolmakers, and production teams helps address these challenges by ensuring that designs are both manufacturable and meet client specifications. Staying current on material advancements and manufacturing techniques can also help designers create innovative and efficient solutions.

What is the difference between Thermoforming Designer vs Mold Designer?

AspectThermoforming DesignerMold Designer
CredentialsTechnical diploma or degree in manufacturing or engineeringTechnical diploma or degree in manufacturing or engineering
Work EnvironmentPlastic manufacturing facilities, design studiosTool and die shops, manufacturing plants
Industry UsagePlastic packaging, automotive, medical devicesInjection molding, blow molding, casting

Both Thermoforming Designers and Mold Designers require similar technical skills and work in manufacturing environments. However, Thermoforming Designers focus on creating molds for thermoforming processes, while Mold Designers develop molds for injection or blow molding. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What cities are hiring for Thermoforming Designer jobs?

Cities with the most Thermoforming Designer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Thermoforming Designer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Thermoforming Designer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,444 per year, or $31.5 per hour.

Plastics Engineer

Elkhart, IN • On-site

MAKS Plastics
See more jobs at MAKS Plasticsexternal

$60K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Description:

Plastics Engineer

DEPARTMENT: Engineering

REPORTING TO: Director of Engineering

MAKS Plastics, LLC is a rotational molding and thermoforming plastic component supplier for the RV, Marine and Custom industries. Our products are diversified to offer our employees stability and growth. At MAKS, we thrive on a People First, Customer focused Culture that works hard, plays hard and is Family Focused. 

SUMMARY: We are seeking a skilled Product Design Engineer with expertise in rotational molding, thermoforming and SolidWorks to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing thermoforming processes and equipment. This role requires a strong understanding of mechanical design principles, material properties, and manufacturing processes, including mold development.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Design and develop internal and external products, molds, equipment using SolidWorks
  • Create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings for manufacturing
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure design feasibility and manufacturability
  • Conduct simulations and analyses to validate designs and optimize performance
  • Troubleshoot and resolve design-related issues during the manufacturing process
  • Stay updated with industry trends and advancements in thermoforming technology
  • Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations
  • Create a safe work environment
  • All other duties as requested

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
  • Proven experience in mechanical design, specifically in thermoforming
  • Proficiency in SolidWorks for 3D modeling and drafting
  • Strong understanding of material properties and manufacturing processes
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Experience with finite element analysis (FEA)
  • Knowledge of thermoplastic materials and their behavior under different conditions
  • Experience with project management and the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
  • Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements related to thermoforming
  • Proficiency in other CAD software and simulation tools
  • Understanding of lean manufacturing principles and practices
  • Previous experience in a manufacturing environment
  • Ability to conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions
  • Strong organizational and time management skills

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Able to work in a hot humid environment for extended periods of time as well as around loud noises are required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to work in an office environment. 

COMPANY CULTURE:

At MAKS Plastics, we believe that our people are our greatest asset. We foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment where every team member is valued and encouraged to contribute their unique skills and perspectives. Our culture is built on the principles of innovation, continuous improvement, and mutual respect. We support professional growth and development through ongoing training and career advancement opportunities. 

BENEFITS:

  • Competitive salary and benefits package
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development
  • Collaborative and innovative work environment
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plan

General Sign-Off: ____________________________________ Date: _______________________

Requirements:


Apply