Thermoform Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Gemini, Inc. • Cannon Falls, MN

5d • $23 - $30 • Onsite

About The Position

Gemstar Manufacturing is hiring an experienced Machine Operator for its Cannon Falls, Minnesota location. Under general supervision, this role sets up and operates thermoforming equipment and 5-axis CNC machines to produce precision plastic components according to customer specifications, engineering drawings, work instructions, and quality standards. Work includes machine setup and adjustments, inspections, material handling, basic troubleshooting, and maintaining a safe and organized work environment. The operator also supports onboarding of new team members through training and knowledge sharing.

The role is full-time and on-site, with a third-shift schedule of five eight-hour days from 10:00 PM to 6:30 AM, Sunday through Thursday. Overtime may be scheduled as needed and may include extended hours, weekends, holidays, or additional shifts based on business needs. The posted wage range includes a 10% shift premium, though no specific wage amount is provided.

Gemstar Manufacturing makes custom plastic parts and protective hard cases and is a division of Gemini, Inc., a family-owned wholesale manufacturer of dimensional signage. The company describes its culture as positive and people-first, emphasizing employee strengths, customer commitment, teamwork, respect, diversity, stability, and stewardship.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to learn machine operation.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
• Basic ability to operate computers, computer equipment, and machine control panels.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing quality parts.
• Ability to perform basic measurements and recognize when a part does not meet specifications.
• Ability to maintain an atmosphere of respect and cooperation with coworkers, supervisors, production personnel, and other departments.
• Ability to work safely in a hot, noisy, and physically demanding manufacturing environment.
• Ability to walk, stand, talk, and hear; use hands to handle, feel, finger, or operate objects or tools; reach with hands and arms; and perform repetitive hand or wrist movements.
• Vision abilities including close and distance vision, depth perception, color distinction, focus adjustment, and peripheral vision.
• Ability to regularly lift up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to work mandatory overtime, including extended hours, weekends, holidays, and/or additional shifts as business needs require.

Nice To Haves

• Previous manufacturing, machine operation, CNC, thermoforming, or related experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate thermoforming machines, molds, vacuum boxes, and related production equipment.
• Set up and operate 5-axis CNC machining equipment to trim, route, drill, and finish thermoformed parts.
• Load programs, tooling, fixtures, and materials according to work instructions.
• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, CNC programs, work orders, and inspection requirements.
• Adjust machine settings, feeds, speeds, temperatures, and tooling to maintain product quality.
• Perform first-piece, in-process, and final inspections using calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other measuring equipment.
• Identify and correct dimensional, cosmetic, and process-related defects.
• Perform basic machine troubleshooting and routine preventative maintenance.
• Safely handle plastic sheet materials, tooling, molds, and finished components.
• Maintain accurate production, inspection, and material records.
• Follow safety, quality, housekeeping, and production procedures.
• Support onboarding of new team members through training and knowledge sharing.
• Perform other duties as assigned for the benefit of the group or organization.

Benefits

• $0 health insurance premium for employee-only coverage, with low-cost premiums for other coverage levels.
• 4% retirement match with profit sharing.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, holiday, parental, volunteer, and sick time.
• Dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Weekly pay.
• Use of a company-owned resort in Hayward, Wisconsin.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• The role is eligible for other benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED