Job Title: Thermoforming Operator Job Description
The Thermoforming Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining thermoforming equipment to produce high-quality plastic components used in custom signage. This role requires strong attention to detail, adherence to safety standards, and the ability to meet production schedules while ensuring consistent product quality. The ideal candidate is reliable, mechanically inclined, and comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Responsibilities
Set up, operate, and monitor thermoforming machines to form plastic sheets into specified shapes for signage components.
Adjust machine settings such as temperature, pressure, and cycle time to achieve optimal forming results.
Inspect finished parts for quality, accuracy, and compliance with specifications.
Perform routine cleaning and basic maintenance on thermoforming equipment.
Troubleshoot machine issues and communicate concerns to leadership when needed.
Maintain accurate production records and report discrepancies, defects, or material issues.
Essential Skills
Mechanical aptitude.
Experience in sign manufacturing, plastics finishing, or related fabrication work.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced production environment.
Knowledge of plastic finishing techniques such as sanding, polishing, trimming, and buffing.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet production schedules.
Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 70 lbs.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent.
0–3 years of experience in thermoforming or plastic fabrication.
Preferred: 1–2 years of experience in thermoforming or plastic fabrication.
Experience in the sign manufacturing industry is a plus.
Why Work Here?
The company is a leader in the sign manufacturing industry and provides a competitive benefits package including health insurance, vision, and dental coverage. There is regular opportunity for overtime, and the company offers education assistance with additional training opportunities through their university.
Work Environment
The position is based in a non-climate controlled manufacturing facility. The work schedule is Monday to Saturday, with mandatory overtime on Saturdays. Working hours are from 7 AM to 5:30/6 PM Monday to Thursday, with two 15-minute paid breaks and a 30-minute unpaid lunch. On Fridays, the hours are from 7 AM to 3:30/4 PM, with one 15-minute paid break and a 30-minute unpaid lunch. On Saturdays, the hours are from 7 AM to 12 PM, with a 30-minute unpaid lunch. The environment involves working with heat and noise for extended periods.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Virginia Beach, VA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $16.00 - $16.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Virginia Beach,VA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Apr 10, 2026.
About Aerotek:
We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies' construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.
Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.