Job Summary
The Thermoforming Setup Mechanic is responsible for the setup, adjustment, and troubleshooting of thermoforming equipment used in food-contact packaging production. This role ensures equipment is operated safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), SQF requirements, food safety programs, and quality standards.
Key Duties and Responsibilities Thermoforming Setup & Changeovers
- Perform complete thermoformer setups including mold changes, plug assists, trim tooling, and auxiliary equipment in a GMP- and SQF-controlled environment
- Verify tooling, molds, and product contact surfaces are clean, sanitary, and approved prior to installation
- Set and adjust process parameters including temperature profiles, pressure, vacuum, timing, and line speed
- Follow approved setup sheets, work instructions, sanitation procedures, and SQF-required controls
- Conduct documented line clearance and pre-operational checks prior to startup
GMP, SQF & Food Safety Compliance
- Adhere to all GMP, SQF, and food safety requirements at all times
- Maintain strict control of foreign material hazards (tools, fasteners, components, personal items)
- Ensure proper use of hairnets, beard nets, gloves, PPE, and clean uniforms
- Follow handwashing, hygiene, and contamination prevention procedures
- Immediately report food safety risks, deviations, or non-conformances
- Actively support SQF audits, inspections, corrective actions, and continuous improvement initiatives
Process Control & Quality Assurance
- Monitor formed parts for defects such as thinning, webbing, distortion, incomplete forming, or trim issues
- Ensure products meet customer, regulatory, and SQF-approved specifications
- Support first-article approval, in-process inspections, and SPC requirements
- Collaborate with Quality Assurance on non-conformances, root cause analysis, and corrective actions
Troubleshooting & Equipment Support
- Diagnose and correct mechanical, pneumatic, vacuum, and basic electrical issues while maintaining food safety controls
- Respond to equipment downtime with priority on product safety and compliance
- Perform minor repairs and assist with preventative maintenance in accordance with SQF requirements
- Communicate recurring equipment or process issues to maintenance, QA, and engineering teams
Documentation & Recordkeeping
- Accurately complete setup verification forms, pre-operational checklists, downtime logs, and production records
- Ensure documentation complies with SQF recordkeeping and traceability requirements
- Maintain audit-ready records that are legible, complete, and timely
Safety & Housekeeping
- Follow all safety policies including lockout/tagout and machine guarding procedures
- Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work area consistent with GMP and SQF expectations
- Properly store tools, parts, and materials to prevent contamination
Materials & Equipment Experience
- Experience with food-contact plastic materials such as PET, RPET, and PS
- Knowledge of thin-gauge thermoforming for food containers, lids, trays, or clamshells
- Experience with trim presses, steel rule dies, or matched metal tooling
- Ability to read setup sheets, drawings, specifications, and control plans
Required Qualifications
- 3–5 years of thermoforming setup or mechanical experience (food packaging preferred)
- Working knowledge of GMP and SQF food safety systems
- Strong mechanical aptitude and structured troubleshooting skills
- Ability to work independently in a regulated, audit-driven environment
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to [XX] lbs
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in SQF-certified food packaging facilities
- Familiarity with SQF Code, BRCGS, FSSC 22000, or ISO 9001
- Basic understanding of PLCs and automated thermoforming equipment
- Experience supporting audits or training operators on GMP/SQF requirements
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $20.00-$30.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
