Foam Machine Operator- 3rd Shift

Pelican; Deerfield (MA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k plan – with immediate match

Health Savings Account Contribution

Wellness Discount Program

Employee discount program

Job summary

Pelican Products in South Deerfield, MA is seeking a Foam Machine Operator to operate foam processing and machining equipment for custom inserts and protective packaging. You will work with engineering drawings and production specs to ensure Pelican’s high standards of quality and performance are met.

The role requires reading technical drawings, setting up machines, and maintaining production records. Candidates with manufacturing experience and familiarity with ERP systems will excel in a

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma or equivalent.
• Preferred background in manufacturing or production.
• Ability to read technical drawings and specs.
• Experience with measurement tools and tolerances preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to learn equipment.
• Strong detail, quality focus, and teamwork.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment.
• Experience with ERP systems preferred.
• Experience with foam processing equipment is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operate foam processing and machining equipment to create foam inserts and protective packaging.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, BOMs, and work instructions.
• Plan production sequences and maximize material utilization for orders.
• Load programs into machine centers and adjust settings as needed.
• Perform first-piece and in-process inspections for quality.

Skills

Reading drawings

Dimensional tolerances

Quality focus

Teamwork

Communication

Problem solving

Multi-tasking

Manufacturing mindset

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Tools

ERP systems

Production software

Measurement tools

Job description

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
• Peer to Peer Recognition Program
• 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!

• And more…

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.