Thermoform Primary Operator - 1st

MAKS Plastics; Elkhart (IN); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative and innovative work environment

Job summary

MAKS Plastics in Elkhart, Indiana is looking for a Primary Operator – Thermoform to operate ovens and molds for the thermoforming production process. The role involves loading and unloading parts, ensuring quality standards while maintaining a safe working environment.

The perfect candidate will have experience in manufacturing machinery and possess strong communication skills. Working in a fast-paced, supportive environment, you’ll also benefit from a competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.

Responsibilities

• Load and unload parts following safety and manufacturing procedures.
• Maintain and clean molds and report mold repair needs.
• Complete daily production logs accurately and maintain production pace.

Skills

Ability to read prints and production specifications

Experience using manufacturing machinery and hand tools

Strong communication skills

Basic computer experience

Detail-oriented with strong quality awareness

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Job description

Primary Operator – Thermoform

Department: Production

Reports To: Team Supervisor

Company: MAKS Plastics – a rotational molding and thermoforming plastic component supplier serving the RV, Marine, and Custom industries.

Company Culture: We are proud of our People First, customer-focused culture where we work hard, support one another, and maintain a strong family-focused environment.

Position Summary

The Primary Operator – Thermoform is responsible for operating ovens and molds used in the thermoforming production process. This role includes loading and unloading sheet and formed parts, setting cycle times, routing parts, and ensuring quality standards are met throughout production. Operators work closely with team leads and supervisors to maintain production flow and create a safe, efficient work environment. The ability to work at heights up to 15 feet may occasionally be required. Additional duties may be assigned as business needs evolve.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Stable and growing manufacturing company serving multiple industries
• Team-oriented and supportive work environment
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
• Hands-on work with modern manufacturing equipment and processes
• Family-focused culture that values employee contributions
• Competitive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and retirement savings plans

Key Responsibilities

• Load and unload parts following safety and manufacturing procedures
• Apply mold release as needed
• Maintain and clean molds
• Identify and report mold repair needs
• Perform daily housekeeping and maintain organized work areas
• Identify and communicate quality concerns
• Place completed parts in designated staging areas
• Verify molds on ovens match computer specifications
• Confirm proper sheet sizes and mold compatibility
• Complete daily production logs accurately
• Notify supervisors of production or equipment issues
• Maintain production pace with oven cycles
• Notify team lead 15–20 minutes before scheduled mold changes
• Assist with mold changes in a timely manner
• Support secondary operations or additional ovens as needed
• Promote and maintain a safe working environment
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Ability to read prints and production specifications
• Experience using manufacturing machinery and hand tools preferred
• Strong communication skills with leads and supervisors
• Basic computer experience is helpful
• Detail-oriented with strong quality awareness
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Working Conditions

• Work performed in a hot, humid manufacturing environment
• Exposure to loud noises and industrial equipment
• Fast-paced production setting requiring consistent attention to safety and quality

Physical Requirements

• Ability to remain stationary with intermittent walking throughout the shift
• Frequently lift parts weighing up to 50 pounds independently
• Ability to lift heavier parts with assistance and transport materials up to 20 feet
• Frequent bending, positioning, and maneuvering around parts during finishing processes
• Frequent use of hand and air tools, including overhead work
• Ability to lift, carry, and dump powder boxes as required

Benefits

• Competitive pay and benefits package
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plan
• Professional development opportunities
• Collaborative and innovative work environment

Company Culture

At MAKS Plastics, our employees are our greatest asset. We foster a collaborative and inclusive workplace built on innovation, continuous improvement, and mutual respect. We are committed to supporting employee success through ongoing training, development opportunities, and career advancement.