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Entry Level Plastics Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Heico

Sustaining Engineer

Chicago, IL

$94K - $116K/yr

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) * Entry level to 3 years work experience ... Knowledge of plastic and metal materials and their uses/applications. * Understanding of injection ...

HEICO

Sustaining Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$94K - $116K/yr

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) * Entry level to 3 years work experience ... Knowledge of plastic and metal materials and their uses/applications. * Understanding of injection ...

Heico Aerospace Corporation

Sustaining Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$94K - $116K/yr

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) * Entry level to 3 years work experience ... Knowledge of plastic and metal materials and their uses/applications. * Understanding of injection ...

New

HEICO

Sustaining Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$94K - $116K/yr

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) * Entry level to 3 years work experience ... Knowledge of plastic and metal materials and their uses/applications. * Understanding of injection ...

Chemtech Plastics, Inc.

Purchasing

Elgin, IL · On-site

$65K/yr

Entry Level Purchasing 1st shift E-Verify Location: Elgin, IL | On-Site JOB SUMMARY: Primary Duties ... Work closely with engineers and estimators to facilitate project quotes, color chip approval, and ...

Life Fitness

Mechanical Engineer I

Schaumburg, IL · Hybrid

$66K - $95K/yr

... (entry-level candidates encouraged to apply) * Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks ... Knowledge of plastic part design, including; injection molding, Part design for manufacturability ...

All JobsPlastics Engineer JobsEntry Level Plastics Engineer JobsEntry Level Plastics Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Plastics Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$71.5K

$121.6K

How much do entry level plastics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level plastics engineer in Chicago, IL is $71,453.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $80,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level plastics engineer do?

An Entry Level Plastics Engineer assists in the design, development, testing, and manufacturing of plastic products and components. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, learning about different types of plastics, processing methods like injection molding, and quality control practices. Their responsibilities may include conducting material tests, evaluating product prototypes, troubleshooting production issues, and supporting process improvements. This role is ideal for recent graduates with a background in chemical engineering, materials science, or a related field. Entry level plastics engineers often gain hands-on experience and foundational knowledge that prepares them for more advanced positions in the plastics industry.

What are some typical projects or tasks an entry level plastics engineer might work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Plastics Engineer, you can expect to work on projects such as assisting in the design and testing of plastic components, supporting manufacturing process improvements, and conducting material property analyses. You may be involved in troubleshooting production issues, collaborating with senior engineers to develop prototypes, and ensuring products meet quality and regulatory standards. This role often requires close teamwork with manufacturing, quality assurance, and design departments, providing valuable exposure to the full product lifecycle and opportunities to learn from experienced professionals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level plastics engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Plastics Engineer, you need a background in materials science or chemical engineering, with knowledge of polymer properties and processing techniques. Familiarity with CAD software, injection molding machinery, and relevant industry standards or certifications (like Six Sigma or ISO) is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in collaborative environments and troubleshoot manufacturing issues. These skills are crucial for ensuring product quality, optimizing production, and supporting innovation in plastics applications.

What is the difference between Entry Level Plastics Engineer vs Junior Plastics Designer?

AspectEntry Level Plastics EngineerJunior Plastics Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Plastics Engineering, Materials Science, or related fieldBachelor's in Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, R&D labs, design officesDesign studios, product development teams, manufacturing settings
Industry UsagePlastic product manufacturing, automotive, packagingConsumer products, packaging, product design
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Plastics Engineer and a Junior Plastics Designer lies in their focus areas. Engineers typically work on material selection, process optimization, and product testing, while designers focus on aesthetics, ergonomics, and conceptual development. Both roles often collaborate in product development but serve distinct functions within the plastics industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plastics Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Plastics Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Plastics Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Plastics Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Plastics Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Plastics Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Plastics Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Plastics Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Plastics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plastics Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,453 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

Sustaining Engineer

Heico

Chicago, IL

$94K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 hours ago

Job description

Switchcraft, Inc. is a U.S. manufacturer of harsh environment circular connectors, cable assemblies and interconnect solutions. Our products are used in a wide variety of industries including medical, industrial controls, transportation and homeland security. We are located on the Northwest side of Chicago and currently have an opening for a Sustaining Engineer.

Location:Jefferson Park, IL (Chicago)

Shift:100% ON SITE - 7:30 am - 4 pm M-F

Pay:$70,000- $75,000

Responsibilities:

  • Maintenance, redesign, improvements and general support for existing products and for designing and releasing custom customer products using current product families
  • Candidate must be able to work on several projects at one time through changing priorities
  • Researches the history and current state of the product evolution, resolution of production and Customer concerns
  • Implementation of product improvements
  • Investigation of new processes and materials
  • Producing and maintaining accurate project plans
  • CAD models and drawings for components and assemblies
  • Specification documents, design analysis (tolerance, FEA, FMEA)
  • Test documentation, product cost estimates, and Bills of Material
  • Coordinates engineering activities with purchasing and manufacturing and making recommendations for parts, materials and tooling
  • Must be able to provide technical support to Sales/Marketing, Manufacturing, Quality and Purchasing
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME)
  • Entry level to 3 years work experience.
  • Design experience with connector and cable products is a plus.
  • Mechanical Design Skills.
  • Basic understanding of Electrical Engineering skills is a plus.
  • Knowledge of plastic and metal materials and their uses/applications.
  • Understanding of injection molded plastic parts and metal screw machine parts.
  • Experience with 3-D CAD modeling software (SolidWorks preferred) and FEA.
  • Understanding of mechanical drawing requirements and proper application of dimensional and tolerance information.
  • Working knowledge of MS Office
  • Good project management skills
  • Strong verbal & written communication skills

Benefits

Paid Time Off

Holidays

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Short Term/Long Term Disability

Commuter benefits

Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

FSA-Dependent Care

Health Savings Account (HSA)

401k

Educational Assistance (Tuition Assistance)

Referral Program

Parental Leave

Healthy Rewards

EOE M/F/Disabled/Vet

This company is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, gender, disability or protected veteran status.

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