Jobs › TOPPAN Packaging

Machine Operator (Kiefel Experience)

TOPPAN Packaging · Huntley, IL · Full time

Posted Sep 23, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

Apply at TOPPAN Packaging

Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a time you worked with packers or inspectors to fix a quality issue on the line.

What they are checking: Whether they treat inspector feedback as useful information rather than criticism.

Why do accurate job tickets matter, and tell me about a time you caught an error in one?

What they are checking: Whether they see paperwork as part of quality and traceability, not busywork.

This shift starts at 5 AM. Tell me about your attendance at past jobs.

What they are checking: Reliability on an early shift where a missing operator stops a machine.

What would you do

Your machine goes down for troubleshooting. How do you decide where to send your Packers and Inspectors?

What they are checking: Whether they keep people productive and safe during downtime, which the posting assigns to this role.

A new material roll behaves differently than the last one even though it's the same spec. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they adjust carefully, document it and report material variation instead of guessing.

About the work

The role needs three or more years on Kiefel machines. Tell me which Kiefel models you've run and what you did on them.

What they are checking: Whether their Kiefel experience is real and deep enough to set up and run without close supervision.

Walk me through how you set up a thermoforming machine for a new job, from mounting the mold to the first good part.

What they are checking: A full, ordered understanding of setup including tooling, roll loading, heating and first-part checks.

Parts are coming out with webbing in the corners. What do you check first?

What they are checking: Practical troubleshooting of forming defects through heat, vacuum, plug assist and material.

How do you use calipers in your daily checks, and what would you do if a part measured out of spec?

What they are checking: Accurate measuring habits and the judgment to stop and adjust rather than keep running bad parts.

What routine maintenance do you do on a thermoformer, and how do you know when something needs maintenance's help?

What they are checking: Their line between operator care and mechanic work, and whether they catch early signs of failure.

Practice this interview out loud.

Offer builds a real interview for this exact role at TOPPAN Packaging from your resume and this job description, asks the questions one at a time, and tells you what landed. The first one is free.

Practice this out loud

The full job description

As published by TOPPAN Packaging.

Position: Machine Operator with Kiefel Experience Location: Huntley, IL Shift: 1st Shift | 5:00 AM – 3:30 PM Pay Rate: $24.89/hour Summary Description With general supervision, this role is responsible for setting up tooling and operating thermoforming machines according to job specifications. The Machine Operator ensures continuous machine operation, performs quality checks, and supports safe, efficient production. This position requires 3+ years of Kiefel machine experience and a strong understanding of thermoforming operations. What You’ll Be Doing Core Responsibilities • Set up thermoforming machines according to job specifications • Mount dies and molds and load raw material rolls into machines • Operate machines to produce thermoformed parts and maintain continuous operation • Perform troubleshooting and quality control checks • Conduct routine maintenance on thermoforming machines • Complete required job tickets and documentation • Work with Packers and Inspectors to resolve quality issues • Direct Packers and Inspectors to alternate tasks during machine downtime • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area • Perform other duties as assigned Level One Expectations • Use and read calipers accurately • Demonstrate self-motivation and willingness to learn • Apply basic math and English skills to complete paperwork • Communicate effectively and work as an active team member • Maintain strong attendance • Keep accurate daily box counts • Run required part quantities per job • Maintain positive working relationships with inspectors and operators • Verify and follow part specifications • Assist with machine setups as needed Job Qualifications Experience and Education • Minimum of 3+ years of Kiefel Operator experience • At least 6 months of setup operator experience • One year of previous production line experience preferred • Thermoforming machines • Hand-held tools • High school diploma or GED preferred but not required. Candidates who demonstrate the necessary manufacturing experience and the required literacy, numeracy, and technical skills will be considered regardless of educational background. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities • Skilled manufacturing operator experience • Ability to read, write, and perform basic math • Understanding of manufacturing and quality control principles • Ability to work independently and as part of a team Environmental Demands Exposure to: • Heat • Toxic fumes • Greases • Lubricants Physical and Visual Demands • Standing, walking, bending, and reaching • Reading, writing, and verbal communication • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds We’d Love to Hear From You If • You have 3+ years of Kiefel Operator experience • You have skilled manufacturing operator experience • You have at least 6 months of machine setup experience • You can read, write, and perform basic math • You understand manufacturing and quality control processes Benefits At TOPPAN Packaging Americas, we offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package designed to support overall wellbeing. Benefits may vary based on location, employment classification, or collective bargaining agreement and may include: • Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options • 401(k) retirement plan with company match • Employee Assistance Program and wellbeing resources • Paid time off and holidays • Company-paid and voluntary insurance plans including life, accident, and disability coverage • Tuition reimbursement Equal Opportunity Employer TOPPAN Packaging Americas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to contribute to their fullest potential. Reasonable accommodations are available throughout the application and employment processes. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please contact us.

Apply at TOPPAN Packaging

More machine operator roles