Tool Setter (Thermoforming)

Thermoforming Tool Setter

Location: Haydock, Merseyside Salary: £16-£20 per hour, dependent on experience, plus shift allowances Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

The Opportunity

We are looking to recruit an experienced Thermoforming Tool Setter to join our production team in Haydock.

This is a hands-on role within a fast-paced manufacturing environment, responsible for setting tooling, carrying out product changeovers and ensuring thermoforming machinery operates safely and efficiently while meeting production targets and quality standards.

The ideal candidate will have 3-5 years' experience setting tooling on Form Cut Stack (FCS) thermoforming machinery within an FMCG or packaging manufacturing environment. Experience with APET, RPET and PP materials is essential.

Key Responsibilities

Set tooling and carry out product changeovers within agreed time and production targets.

Set up and operate thermoforming machinery, including WM, Kiefel and Sencorp equipment.

Assist with pre-production tool inspections and routine tooling maintenance.

Identify and resolve production, tooling and machine-related issues.

Troubleshoot process faults and recommend corrective actions to improve performance.

Assist with commissioning new tooling and optimising production line speeds.

Conduct finished-product inspections to ensure quality standards and specifications are met.

Support investigations into customer complaints, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.

Complete production setup records, quality documentation and performance reports.

Prepare tooling for upcoming production runs.

Manage factory waste and support the efficient operation of granulators and case-handling equipment.

Work in accordance with BRCGS, GMP, HACCP and Health & Safety requirements.

Monitor production KPIs and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Provide training and guidance to production operators where required.

Support production supervisors and managers, deputising when necessary.

Communicate effectively with maintenance, tooling and production teams to minimise downtime.

Essential Skills and Experience

3-5 years' experience setting tooling on Form Cut Stack (FCS) thermoforming machinery.

Experience working with APET, RPET and PP plastics.

Strong technical knowledge of thermoforming processes and production equipment.

Experience carrying out tooling setups, product changeovers and machine adjustments.

Ability to identify, troubleshoot and rectify process faults.

Knowledge of quality control, product specifications and manufacturing standards.

Experience working within an FMCG, food packaging or vacuum-forming environment.

Understanding of Health & Safety procedures and safe machinery operation.

Strong problem-solving, communication and organisational skills.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Good computer skills, including Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint.

Flexible approach to working hours, including shifts and overtime.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for a motivated, technically minded Tool Setter with a strong background in thermoforming and a proactive approach to production efficiency.

You will be confident setting and changing tooling, resolving production issues and maintaining product quality in a demanding manufacturing environment. The ability to support operators, work collaboratively with other departments and make effective decisions under pressure is essential.

An engineering qualification or time-served background is preferred.

What We Offer

Competitive hourly rate of £16-£20, depending on experience.

Additional shift allowances.

First Aid, Fire Safety and Level 2 HACCP allowances, where applicable.

Company pension scheme.

Costco membership card after six months of continuous service.

Bright, clean, safe and warm working environment.

Full-time, permanent employment.

Opportunities to contribute to continuous improvement and develop technical skills.

Working Hours

Continental shift pattern: four 12-hour day or night shifts followed by four rest days.

Flexibility is essential to meet business requirements, and overtime will be required.

How to Apply

If you are an experienced Thermoforming Tool Setter with a background in FCS machinery and FMCG or packaging manufacturing, we would welcome your application.

Please submit your latest CV, highlighting your thermoforming experience, tooling setup skills, machine knowledge and relevant qualifications