1

Thermoforming Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Product Design Plastics Engineer

Elkhart, IN

$123K - $148K/yr

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 ...

Product Design Plastics Engineer

Elkhart, IN ยท On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

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 ...

Plastics Engineer

Elkhart, IN ยท On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

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 ...

Plastics Engineer

Elkhart, IN ยท On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

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 ...

Product Design Plastics Engineer

Elkhart, IN ยท On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

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 ...

Production Supervisor We are seeking a Production Supervisor to lead daily operations within the Thermoforming and Extrusion departments. This role is responsible for overseeing production employees ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Thermoforming information

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 are the most commonly searched types of Thermoforming jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Thermoforming jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Thermoforming job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

In Line Thermoforming Machine Operator

Owings Patterns INC

Sellersburg, IN โ€ข On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

In-Line Thermoforming Machine Operator
Owings Patterns | Sellersburg, IN
Position Overview
Owings Patterns is hiring a hands-on In-Line Thermoforming Machine Operator ready to take ownership of production and make an immediate impact. If you have manufacturing experience, mechanical ability, and take pride in running quality parts, we want to talk to you.
This is a stable, full-time, first-shift position with consistent hours and strong benefits.

Key Responsibilities
• Set up molds and tooling and get jobs running efficiently
 • Run in-line thermoforming machines with a focus on quality and output
 • Inspect parts and ensure they meet specs every time
 • Complete QCS reporting and production paperwork accurately
 • Troubleshoot issues and keep machines running
 • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
 • Track scrap and support continuous improvement
 • Pitch in where needed—production, inventory, or shipping

What We’re Looking For
• Manufacturing experience (thermoforming a big plus)
 • Mechanically inclined and comfortable with equipment
 • Ability to read drawings and use measuring tools
 • Strong work ethic—you show up and get the job done
 • Team player with a positive attitude
 • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stay on your feet all shift
 • High school diploma or GED required

Success in this role means
• You run quality parts with minimal supervision
 • You keep production moving—no constant oversight needed
 • You take pride in your work and your workspace
 • You show up every day ready to contribute

Why Join Owings Patterns?
• Consistent first-shift schedule – no rotating shifts
 • Stable workload with steady hours
 • Team-focused environment where your work matters
 • Opportunities to grow your skillset

Schedule & Benefits
• Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM
 • Medical, dental, vision, PTO, and 401(k) with matching