2

Entry Level Plastics Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

Entry Level CNC Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Openly communicate with the CNC manager and programmers to seek clarification and remove issues ... Knowledge of various material properties and behaviors (wood, metal, plastic) * Ability to maintain ...

Entry Level CNC Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Openly communicate with the CNC manager and programmers to seek clarification and remove issues ... Knowledge of various material properties and behaviors (wood, metal, plastic) * Ability to maintain ...

Entry Level Plastics Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$31.8K

$73.6K

$125.1K

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level plastics engineer in Portland, OR is $73,559.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,600.00 and $83,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Plastics Engineer jobs in Portland, OR? For Entry Level Plastics Engineer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Plastics Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Plastics Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Entry Level Plastics Engineer jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Entry Level Plastics Engineer job openings:

Entry Level CNC Operator

Axiom Custom Products

Portland, OR • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Axiom
Axiom Custom Products is a designer and custom manufacturer that services the creative, events, retail, and construction industries. A team of 75, we leverage our digital manufacturing technologies, manufacturing expertise, and decades of trial and error to deliver the highest quality products - an outcome unmatched. We offer our clients extensive in-house services and capabilities that allow us to take on projects at any stage of development from concept to installation.
When it comes to our team, they enjoy excellent pay, great benefits, including medical, dental, vision for the employee (with additional cost options for dependents). We offer 401k and ROTH investment options. After year one you accrue 20 days of PTO, yep, your read that right! Combined with paid holidays, our benefits are some of the best in our industry.
The Role
This is an entry-level opportunity for individuals with a strong desire to learn and contribute to the manufacturing process. As an Assistant CNC Operator at Axiom, you'll embark on a rewarding learning journey while contributing to the production of our high-quality custom products. You'll gain hands-on experience with our versatile machinery under the guidance and mentorship of our experienced CNC team. Teamwork is key, as you'll assist with planning schedules, learning how to meticulously prep and load material, observing machine operation, and maintaining a safe work environment. Your attention to detail will be valuable as you learn inspection procedures to ensure parts meet our unique standards. Communication and a willingness to learn are essential in our dynamic team, where adaptability and proactive problem-solving are valued. If you're eager to grow your skills and contribute to a collaborative environment, this is your chance to shine at Axiom! This position reports to the CNC Manager.
Position Responsibilities:
  • Learn to operate and maintain Axiom's 3-axis and multi-axis routers with potential to cross-train on laser and press brake. Prioritize accuracy, quality, organization, efficiency, and safety in all operations.
  • Production Planning and Execution:
    • Collaborate with the CNC manager to establish daily and weekly cut priorities
    • Learn to efficiently execute work assignments as per run sheets and direction from the CNC Manager
    • Shadow experienced operators during material handling and setup tasks, and work towards doing it independently
  • Material Handling and Setup:
    • Verify and double-check materials, ensuring they match the assigned job, deliverable, and program before cutting
    • Ensure materials are free of defects before initiating cuts 
    • Load materials accurately based on run sheets
    • Learn to tool machines appropriately according to run sheets
    • Adhere to all set-up procedures and machine operation protocols
    • Openly communicate with the CNC manager and programmers to seek clarification and remove issues before cutting material
  • Quality Assurance and Inspection:
    • Observe machines during operation
    • Learn inspection procedures for finished parts for accuracy, cut quality, fitment, and finish according to deliverable specifications
    • Count, organize, stack, and package parts for delivery to the next manufacturing stage
    • Play a key role in ensuring the accuracy of CNC-made parts
  • Communication and Collaboration:
    • Observe and learn best practices in coordinating with programmers, purchasers, and project managers to ensure proper material storage and handling
    • Actively participate in team communication
  • Maintenance and Organization:
    • Assist with routine machine maintenance as per guidelines, and work towards performing independently
    • Perform opening and closing duties as required
    • Maintain server integrity and file organization procedures
    • Uphold safety, maintenance, and procedural protocols
    • Maintain a clean and organized work environment in CNC areas
    • Help manage the tooling library and request new tools when inventory levels are too low
    • Help manage the CNC rack inventory, ensuring material is properly tagged, and movements and consumptions are tracked on the inventory sheet

Essential Skills and Experience:
  • Strong willingness to learn and adapt to new situations
  • Ability to take direction and follow through with tasks
  • Positive and professional attitude with a commitment to safety and teamwork
  • Ability to lift and carry
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Willingness to undergo training and certification for forklift operation

Bonus Skills and Experience:
  • Experience operating CNC machinery, including routers, lasers, or press brakes. Familiarity with 3-axis and multi-axis machines is a plus
  • Understanding of machining principles such as nesting, tooling selection, feed rates, and cut order optimization
  • Knowledge of various material properties and behaviors (wood, metal, plastic)
  • Ability to maintain accuracy and consistency throughout production runs
  • Experience with quality control practices and inspection procedures
  • Familiarity with general fabrication and manufacturing processes
  • Ability to troubleshoot issues, identify root causes, and suggest corrective actions
  • Ability to communicate clearly to clarify instructions, report problems, and collaborate effectively with team members
  • Ability to explain technical concepts clearly to colleagues and managers
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage priorities effectively
  • Eagerness to learn, adapt to new situations, and continuously improve
  • Experience operating multi-axis milling machines
  • Experience operating an Amada press brake or Kern laser

Key Performance Indicators:
  • Complete work within set timeframes and project requirements
  • Parts delivered on time, accurately, and in an organized manner
  • Low instances rework
  • A consistently visually clean workspace and organized rack space
  • Positive feedback from supervisor and colleagues

Pay range for this position is $18 to $22/hour.
Next Steps
See our full capabilities at www.axiomcustom.com check out the awesome things we produce at www.instagram.com/axiomcustom.
We design. We engineer. We build. We'd love to hear how the role and company align with your interests and experience, reach out with an intro and a resume!
 

Powered by JazzHR

ltpaTIRQh9