Job Title: Thermoforming Tool Setter
Location: St.Helens
Salary: £30,000-£43,800 (depending on experience) + shift, first aid, fire, and HACCP L2 premiums
Hours: Continental shifts – 4 x 12-hour days/nights followed by 4 rest days (flexibility required)
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Thermoforming Tool Setter to join our production team. In this role, you will be responsible for the setup and operation of tooling on thermoforming machine lines (WM, Kiefel, Sencorp) as well as ancillary equipment, granulators, and case handling systems.
You will play a key role in maintaining production efficiency, quality standards, and workplace safety. From time to time, you may be required to deputize for supervisors or managers, leading the production team and ensuring smooth shift operations.
This is a hands-on role that requires strong technical knowledge of thermoforming processes, leadership skills, and the ability to troubleshoot issues effectively.
Key Responsibilities
Tool Setting & Production
* Perform product changeovers, setups, and run tooling to meet manufacturing specifications within safety, quality, and time targets.
* Assist with pre-production tool inspections, routine maintenance, and commissioning of new tooling.
* Identify and resolve production, tooling, or machinery issues that may affect performance or product quality.
* Optimize line speeds and provide training/support to operators as needed.
* Maintain production setup records and prepare tooling for upcoming runs.
Quality Assurance
* Conduct regular inspections of finished products to ensure they meet quality standards and customer specifications.
* Participate in investigations of customer complaints, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
* Maintain documentation of quality records and production metrics.
Safety & Compliance
* Enforce company safety protocols, ensuring a safe working environment for all employees.
* Work in line with BRCGS Certification, GMP, Health & Safety standards, and company KPIs.
Communication & Leadership
* Liaise with colleagues across Maintenance, Tooling, and Production teams.
* Support supervisors and operators when required.
* Report production status, performance, and concerns to senior management.
* Foster a positive, team-oriented workplace.
Qualifications & Experience
* 3–5 years’ experience setting tooling on Form-Cut-Stack thermoforming machinery (APET, RPET & PP) in FMCG packaging/processing.
* Strong technical knowledge of thermoforming processes and equipment.
* Engineering qualification or time-served background.
* Computer literacy (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
* Experience with quality management systems (BRC/ISO), HACCP, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement.
* Proven ability to lead, multitask, and make decisions under pressure.
Personal Profile
* Enthusiastic, self-motivated, and proactive
* Problem-solving mindset with strong attention to detail
* Supportive and collaborative team player
* Flexible approach to working hours and overtime
* Patient, courteous, and reliable
Benefits
* Competitive hourly rate (depending on experience) + additional shift/skill premiums
* 5.6 weeks holiday (including bank holidays, pro-rata to shift pattern)
* Stakeholder pension scheme (auto-enrolment)
* Costco membership after 6 months of continuous service (includes discounted fuel)
* Bright, clean, safe, and modern working environment