Foam Machine Operator- 3rd Shift

Pelican Products, Inc.; Deerfield (MA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k with immediate match

Health Insurance

Employee discount program

Paid time off & holidays

Onsite gym

Job summary

Pelican Products, Inc. in South Deerfield, MA is seeking a Foam Machine Operator to run foam processing and machining equipment. You will read engineering drawings and BOMs, plan production sequences, cut foam to spec, and load programs into machines to meet Pelican’s high-quality standards.

The role involves first-piece and in-process inspections, troubleshooting, and maintaining clean, safe work areas. A high school diploma and basic computer skills are preferred, with experience in foam or

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Manufacturing, machine operation, CNC, fabrication, or production experience preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Experience with measurement tools and dimensional tolerances preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to learn manufacturing equipment and processes.
• Basic computer skills and ability to navigate production systems.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to troubleshoot basic equipment and process issues.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Experience operating routers, water jets, cutting equipment, CNC equipment, or foam processing machinery is a plus.
• Experience with ERP systems and electronic production reporting is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Read and interpret engineering drawings, Bills of Materials, assembly drawings, and work instructions.
• Understand basic dimensioning and tolerancing requirements and interpret 2D prints and 3D models.
• Plan production sequences and maximize material utilization for both new and repeat production orders.
• Select materials and cut foam stock to required dimensions and tolerances.
• Operate foam processing and machining equipment including Slabbers, Convoluters, Die Presses, Thermal Bonders, Apex Routers, and Water Jets.
• Access production files through the company network and load programs into machine centers.
• Adjust machine settings, pressures, and operating parameters based on material specifications and production requirements.
• Perform first-piece inspections and in-process quality inspections to verify product conformance.
• Identify and troubleshoot machining or cutting issues and communicate concerns to leadership and programming teams.
• Stack, pack, label, seal, and prepare finished products for shipment and palletization.
• Process and dispose of foam scrap materials in accordance with company procedures.
• Maintain production records and complete ERP transactions as required.
• Perform daily 5S housekeeping and organization activities.
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas.
• Follow company policies, quality standards, and safety procedures.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Read drawings

Dimensioning & tolerancing

Production planning

Quality inspections

Troubleshooting

Attention to detail

Communication

Multitasking

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Tools

Slabbers

Convoluters

Die Presses

Thermal Bonders

Apex Routers

Water Jets

ERP systems

Job description

South Deerfield, MA, 147 N Main Street, South Deerfield, Massachusetts, United States of America

Job Description

Posted Monday, August 24, 2026 at 4:00 AM

We're Hiring: Foam Machine Operator
Location: South Deerfield, MA
Company: Pelican Products

Who We Are

At Pelican, we engineer products that stand up to the world’s toughest conditions—because the people who rely on us do too. For nearly 50 years, we’ve been a trusted partner for military personnel, first responders, outdoor adventurers, and innovators who push the limits.

With a global presence that includes 11 offices, 4 manufacturing facilities, and 4 custom case centers, we create high-performance protective solutions that ensure our customers can focus on what matters most. Whether it’s transporting critical medical supplies, securing mission-essential equipment, or keeping expedition gear safe, Pelican products are Built to Protect to Equip for the Mission.

At Pelican, your work has a real-world impact. You’ll be part of a team driven by innovation, craftsmanship, and the shared belief that when the mission is critical, failure isn’t an option. If you’re ready to build something that makes a difference, be part of a team that protects what matters most.

What You'll Do :

As a Foam Machine Operator, you will operate a variety of foam processing and machining equipment to manufacture custom foam inserts and protective packaging solutions. You'll work with engineering drawings, production specifications, and manufacturing systems to ensure products meet Pelican's high standards for quality and performance.

• Read and interpret engineering drawings, Bills of Materials, assembly drawings, and work instructions.
• Understand basic dimensioning and tolerancing requirements and interpret 2D prints and 3D models.
• Plan production sequences and maximize material utilization for both new and repeat production orders.
• Select materials and cut foam stock to required dimensions and tolerances.
• Operate foam processing and machining equipment including Slabbers, Convoluters, Die Presses, Thermal Bonders, Apex Routers, and Water Jets.
• Access production files through the company network and load programs into machine centers.
• Adjust machine settings, pressures, and operating parameters based on material specifications and production requirements.
• Perform first-piece inspections and in-process quality inspections to verify product conformance.
• Identify and troubleshoot machining or cutting issues and communicate concerns to leadership and programming teams.
• Stack, pack, label, seal, and prepare finished products for shipment and palletization.
• Process and dispose of foam scrap materials in accordance with company procedures.
• Maintain production records and complete ERP transactions as required.
• Perform daily 5S housekeeping and organization activities.
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas.
• Follow company policies, quality standards, and safety procedures.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

What We’re Looking For

• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Manufacturing, machine operation, CNC, fabrication, or production experience preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Experience working with measurement tools and dimensional tolerances preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to learn manufacturing equipment and processes.
• Basic computer skills and ability to navigate production systems.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to troubleshoot basic equipment and process issues.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Experience operating routers, water jets, cutting equipment, CNC equipment, or foam processing machinery is a plus.
• Experience with ERP systems and electronic production reporting is preferred.

What’s In It For You :

Join a company that truly values its employees! We offer a relaxed and casual work environment, a strong commitment to giving back to communities, and a focus on employee satisfaction. With regular opportunities to share feedback with leadership and structured performance evaluations, we ensure that your voice is heard and your growth is supported.

• Competitive paid time off plans / Holiday pay /extra vacation purchase opportunities
• 401k plan – with immediate match
• Great Benefits – several options including Pet insurance for our animal lovers.
• Health Savings Account Contribution
• Wellness Discount Program
• Global Mental Wellness Program
• Quarterly Employee Celebration Days
• Service Recognition Program
• Amazing employee discount program on Pelican Products, Pelican branded apparel and gear
• Employee referral program – get paid to work with your trusted network.
• Beautiful New England location
• Onsite Gym
• Established reputable brand offering premium products – you’ll be proud to represent Pelican!

ITAR Compliance Notice:
This position is located at a facility that is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). In order to comply with these government regulations, applicants must be a U.S. Person as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15). A U.S. Person includes a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder), or individual granted asylum or refugee status in the United States.

Compensation & Benefits:
Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across severalU.S. geographic markets. Base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The annual U.S. pay range for this positionis listed below. Paywithin this range varies by work locationand may also depend on your qualifications, job-related knowledge, skills,and experience. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for the job location during the hiring process. We also offer a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off, 10 paid holidays per year, medical/dental/vision insurance, company-paid life and disability plans, and matching 401k to eligible employees.
Pelican Products, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

South Deerfield, MA, 147 N Main Street, South Deerfield, Massachusetts, United States of America