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Innovative Plastics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Airlite Plastics

Plastics Process Engineer

Nazareth, PA · On-site

Description Airlite Plastics is a premier, privately held, family-owned manufacturer headquartered ... These values set a strong foundation to build on where we can 'wow' our customers with innovative ...

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Innovative Plastics information

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$36.5K

$65.3K

$108.5K

How much do innovative plastics jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for innovative plastics in the United States is $65,265.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $79,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Innovative Plastics vs Plastic Fabricator?

AspectInnovative PlasticsPlastic Fabricator
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certifications in plastics manufacturingRequires similar technical skills, often with certifications in fabrication or welding
Work EnvironmentManufacturing facilities, labs, or design studiosWorkshop or factory settings focused on cutting, shaping, and assembling plastics
Industry UsageDesigning and developing innovative plastic products and solutionsFabricating plastic components based on specifications and drawings

Innovative Plastics professionals focus on designing and developing new plastic products, often working in R&D or design environments. Plastic Fabricators primarily handle the physical creation of plastic parts, working in manufacturing settings. While both roles require technical skills and knowledge of plastics, their core responsibilities differ—one emphasizes innovation and design, the other fabrication and assembly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Plastics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plastics Engineer, you need a solid understanding of polymer science, materials engineering, and manufacturing processes, typically supported by a degree in chemical or materials engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, injection molding machinery, and industry standards like ISO 9001 is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure the efficient design, production, and improvement of innovative plastic products that meet quality and safety standards.

What are 'Innovative Plastics'?

Innovative plastics refer to new or advanced types of plastic materials that offer improved performance, sustainability, or unique functional properties compared to traditional plastics. These materials may be engineered for greater strength, flexibility, biodegradability, or for use in specialized applications such as medical devices, automotive parts, or eco-friendly packaging. Innovations in plastics often focus on reducing environmental impact through recyclability or the use of renewable resources, while maintaining or enhancing the material's usefulness. Such advancements help industries meet both performance demands and growing environmental regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in innovative plastics roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in innovative plastics often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapid advancements in materials technology and balancing sustainability with performance demands. Navigating strict regulatory requirements and ensuring product safety can also be complex. To address these challenges, it's important to stay current with industry trends, actively participate in ongoing training, and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams like R&D, manufacturing, and quality assurance. This collaborative approach helps drive innovation while meeting both technical and environmental standards.
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What cities are hiring for Innovative Plastics jobs? Cities with the most Innovative Plastics job openings:
What states have the most Innovative Plastics jobs? States with the most job openings for Innovative Plastics jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Innovative Plastics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Innovative Plastics jobs are:
Innovative Plastics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Innovative Plastics job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,265 per year, or $31.4 per hour.
Manufacturing Engineer (Plastics)

Manufacturing Engineer (Plastics)

TO Plastics

Clearwater, MN • On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Initiate and lead safety, quality, service, and productivity improvement projects in all aspects of manufacturing.

  • Manage documentation of product cost, quality, process understanding, and specifications.

  • Participate in Lean efforts including 6S, set-up reduction, lead time reduction, machine capability, and reduction of non-value-added activities.

Job description

Company Overview:
Experience matters. Since 1948, T.O. Plastics has manufactured quality custom thermoformed parts and packaging and provided exceptional service to customers around the world. One of the top 100 thermoforming companies in North America, T.O. Plastics delivers value by focusing on customer needs and by offering a full range of services from design-to-distribution. At T.O. Plastics, we are dedicated to excellence and we leverage our experience and core competency to develop customized, cost-effective solutions for businesses in diverse markets. T.O. Plastics has facilities in both Clearwater and Otsego, Minnesota.
It is our Mission to "delight and serve our customers with innovative thermoform solutions".
Position Summary:
The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for optimizing and improving manufacturing operations using engineered solutions, structured problem solving and Lean methodology. Key areas of focus include Safety, ergonomics, productivity improvements, set-up reduction, process optimization, cost reduction and Total Predictive Maintenance (TPM). The Manufacturing Engineer will work collaboratively with Quality, Product Engineers, Supply Chain, Production and Maintenance to meet short and long term TO Plastics business Objectives. The Manufacturing Engineer will be a critical leader in transforming our Operations into our Best Sales Tool and a model of Operational Excellence.
Safety is # 1 at T.O. Plastics: Our expectation is that company leadership:
  • Minimum compliance achieved on annual safety audits or assessments.
  • Maintain operations that are compliant with OSHA and other applicable safety and health regulations.

Essential Functions:
This position is responsible for the following tasks, duties and responsibilities:
  • Model and promote a Culture of Safety throughout the company
  • Initiate and lead safety, quality, service, and productivity (cost) improvement projects in all aspects of manufacturing
  • Manage documentation of product cost, quality, process understanding, and specifications
  • Development and implementation of cross-functional projects, plans, and programs in support of business and strategic plans
  • Ability to perform root cause analysis and apply systemic problem-solving skills
  • Participate in Kaizen improvement events and follow-up activities
  • Participate in Lean efforts in6S, set-up reduction, lead time reduction, machine capability and the reduction of non-value-added activities
  • Support the improvement of manufacturing capability to optimize and minimize investment in inventory
  • Develop and manage small and medium Cap-Ex projects
  • Support formal stage-gate product development process and successful product launch activities.
  • Provide management and team members concise reports and updates as required on a daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly & annual basis.
  • Other duties and tasks as determined by TO Plastics leadership.
  • Design and develop mechanical systems

Minimum Qualifications/Requirements:
  1. Bachelor's degree in Engineering and experience in a related manufacturing environment
  2. Involvement and participation in Lean manufacturing/Continuous Improvement environment.
  3. High energy, entrepreneurial spirt, self guidance and a drive to succeed.
  4. Demonstrated results leading change, optimizing processes and implementing new programs.
  5. Proven experience and knowledge of Lean methodologies and Operational Excellence. Evidence of ongoing training as required to keep skills current and relevant.
  6. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple priorities.
  7. Ability to effectively manage large amounts of data, draw informed fact-based conclusions and make timely decisions.
  8. Proficient with CAD drawing and solid modeling, preferred experience with SolidWorks.
  9. Ability to manage multiple programs and use structured problem-solving methodologies.
  10. Ability to effectively manage, develop and deliver results with a diverse matrixed team.
  11. Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  12. Experience working with cross functional teams and communicating with individuals from the production floor to the executive level.
  13. Strong mechanical design skills.
  14. Microsoft Office and other computer application skills.
  15. Experience with ERP systems.

Optimal Qualifications:
  1. Previous experience in two or more of the following roles: Manufacturing Engineer, Mechanical Engineer Process Engineer, Quality Engineer, Industrial Engineer or similar roles.
  2. Previous thermoforming or extrusion experience.
  3. 6 Sigma Green Belt certification.
  4. Advanced Business or Technical degree.
  5. Effective project management skills with proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget.
  6. Ability to understand and apply Lean, analytical, and statistical tools.
  7. Excellent communication, problem solving, interpersonal, organizational, and analytical skills.

Comprehensive benefit package to include the following options:
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • STD and LTD Insurance
  • 401K with a generous company match
  • 3 weeks of PTO earned as a weekly accrual
  • Critical Illness Coverage
  • Accident Insurance
  • FSA or HSA Contribution Plans
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Compensation:
$75,000 to $125,000 based on experience - + Bonus
Work Environment:
The Manufacturing Engineer position requires a balance of sitting/office work and walking/standing on the production floor and warehouse. The position requires a balance of hands on work and office work. The production environment at times can be hot, loud and demanding. Safety glasses, hearing protection and certain clothing restrictions are required on the production floor. The production floor and warehouses require mobility and are a fast-moving environment. Light travel between company facilities and some travel to customers, trade shows, suppliers and external meetings, etc. is required.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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