Thermoforming Manager

Role Overview

The Technical Manager – Thermoforming is responsible for leading the thermoforming technical teams, overseeing maintenance systems, and driving process improvements. This role requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and a focus on continuous improvement to optimize productivity, ensure regulatory compliance, and manage equipment performance.

• Team Leadership: Lead and guide thermoforming teams, including process technicians, engineers, and set-up staff.
• Maintenance Oversight: Manage preventive and predictive maintenance systems in collaboration with the Maintenance Manager.
• Process Optimization: Drive continuous improvement in operational efficiency (OEE) and troubleshoot processes to reduce downtime.
• Project Management: Lead improvement projects and hold teams accountable for performance goals.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with SQF, ISO, and safety regulations, keeping reporting up-to-date.
• Cross-Departmental Support: Collaborate with production, EHS, quality, scheduling, and NPD teams to ensure smooth operations.
• Equipment Ownership: Oversee the management and maintenance of thermoforming equipment and support systems.
• Training & Development: Support the development of technical staff and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

• Education: Bachelor's degree in engineering or equivalent experience.
• Experience: 8-10 years of managing thermoforming teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, preferably in food packaging.
• Certifications: Six Sigma or Lean certification preferred.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with OSHA and environmental regulations.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead teams, develop talent, and manage high-performance cultures.
• Skills: Strong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• Technical Proficiency: Able to quickly learn and apply new systems and software.

• Lead and coordinate thermoforming team activities.
• Manage maintenance programs and ensure equipment reliability.
• Drive technical improvements and productivity.
• Handle troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards.
• Provide ongoing training and professional development for staff.

• Managing a diverse, multilingual workforce and addressing high turnover.
• Overcoming a "run-to-failure" culture and building a more proactive maintenance approach.
• Navigating a high SKU mix and ensuring technical teams work cohesively.
• Establishing a more professionalized company culture.

• Manage a team of 40-45 members, including set‑up technicians, process technicians, and their managers.

• Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and perform various physical tasks, including bending, kneeling, and working at heights.