Foam Processing Operator- 1st Shift

The Foam Processing Operator is responsible for identifying, preparing, and processing foam material for reuse or disposal. This includes evaluating foam density and quality, removing skins from salvageable material, operating a variety of cutting and grinding equipment, and ensuring bales are properly staged for disposal or recycling. The role requires strong attention to detail, manual handling skills, and a safety-first mindset due to the nature of the machinery and materials involved.

HSM Transportation is an ISO Certified exclusive complete line manufacturer of C.E. White School Bus Seats, portable child restraints, seat covers, and foam aftermarket parts. We are also a premier commercial seat manufacturer specializing in luxury full-size, luxury shuttle, commuter transit, commuter van, salon, foldaway and sofa seating.

HSM Transportation Solutions is a business unit of HSM, headquartered in Hickory, NC since 1944. Our commitment to excellence goes far beyond our products and processes; it is centered on the people who make it all possible. If you're interested in learning more about our company culture, as well as the benefits we offer our employees, please visit our website or social media pages.

Foam Evaluation & Sorting

• Sort foam by density, texture, and surface quality (e.g., presence of skins, damage, or contaminants)
• Identify salvageable foam vs. scrap using both visual and tactile inspection
• Distinguish subtle differences in foam firmness and feel with accuracy

Salvage & Preparation

• Feed salvageable foam with skins into the bandsaw or skiver to remove outer layers
• Load clean foam into the shopper for further processing or shredding
• Prepare sorted material for grinding or baling depending on reusability

Grinding, Baling & Material Handling

• Operate the foam grinder to reduce usable foam into spec-defined particle size
• Load scrap into baler and secure using baling wire under tension
• Safely cut baling wire, remove finished bales, and stage for transport or recycling
• Maintain accurate counts and records of processed foam loads

Safety & Equipment Operation

• Follow lockout/tagout procedures, blade safety protocols, and PPE requirements at all times
• Remain alert when working with hazardous equipment such as bandsaws, balers, and grinders
• Perform routine safety checks on equipment before use and report concerns promptly
• Use forklifts to move foam bales, feed raw material, or transfer completed loads

Housekeeping & Compliance

• Keep work areas clean, organized, and free from tripping hazards or flammable debris
• Monitor work zone for any potential safety or material handling issues
• Support cross-training and assist in other foam-related functions as needed

Education & Work Experience

• High school diploma or GED required
• Previous experience in manufacturing, foam handling, or material sorting is a plus

Technical & Physical Skills

• Strong attention to detail and ability to identify subtle differences in foam density by feel
• Experience operating forklifts, skivers, bandsaws, or balers preferred
• Comfortable working around sharp blades, tensioned wires, and moving equipment
• Regularly required to lift up to 50 pounds and frequently push/pull or move items over 100 pounds
• Ability to stand, walk, reach, and handle materials throughout shift in a non-climate-controlled environment
• Occasional kneeling, crouching, or crawling as needed for package access or equipment setup
• Exposure to moving machinery, vibration, and airborne particles is common

Behavioral & Safety Attributes

• Strong commitment to safety and situational awareness
• Able to follow written and verbal instructions related to processing, safety, and equipment
• Team-oriented with flexibility to assist in various foam processing function
• Commitment to wearing noise protection while in moderate noise environment

As a Foam Processing Operator at HSM, you’ll enjoy: 

• 401k Contribution Match up to 4% (100% Vested from Day 1), 9 paid holidays, 104 hours of PTO (Eligible after 60 days), Affordable Total Package Benefits offerings for you and your family, On-Site No-Cost Medical Clinics for you and Covered Dependents, Teladoc 24/7 ($0 copay), Global Healthcare and Tuition Reimbursement & Professional Development Assistance. 

At HSM Solutions our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, innovation, and celebrating our successes together as a team. We provide our employees with the tools and resources they need to achieve their goals and to make a meaningful impact on our customers, our company, and our communities. If you're looking for a place that's not just a job, but a spot where you can grow and make a real impact, then HSM Solutions is the place for you. 

If you would like to apply for a position, please visit our career site at www.hsmsolutions.com/careers for a prompt response from our recruitment team. If you have any questions or would like to follow up on your application, please don't hesitate to contact us at jobs@hsmsolutions.com.

If you can't find a job opening that aligns with your skills and interests, Join our talent network today! to stay informed about the latest company news, upcoming events, and new career opportunities that are tailored to your unique talents. Simply sign up today to get started!

HSM prohibits discrimination based on any protected status, workplace harassment/bullying, and retaliation for filing a complaint or providing information related to a complaint. HSM provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants without regard to an individual's protected status: race/ethnicity, color, national origin, ancestry, sex/gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital/parental status, pregnancy/childbirth or related conditions, religion, creed, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status.