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Key Plastics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Plastics Engineer

Hudson, MA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

We focus on plastics molding development, thin and thick wall molding, tight tolerance molding ... Managing key custom customer projects and serving as their key point of contact * Read & understand ...

Manufacturing Engineer (Plastics)

Clearwater, MN · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Key areas of focus include Safety, ergonomics, productivity improvements, set-up reduction, process ... Plastics: Our expectation is that company leadership: * Minimum compliance achieved on annual ...

Manufacturing Engineer (Plastics)

Clearwater, MN · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Key areas of focus include Safety, ergonomics, productivity improvements, set-up reduction, process ... Plastics: Our expectation is that company leadership: * Minimum compliance achieved on annual ...

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Key Plastics information

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How much do key plastics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for key plastics in the United States is $12.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.54 and $13.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by production associates at a plastics manufacturing company like Key Plastics?

Production associates at plastics manufacturing companies such as Key Plastics often work in fast-paced environments where attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols are crucial. Common challenges include managing multiple machine operations, maintaining quality standards under tight deadlines, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Associates also need to adapt quickly to changes in production schedules and work collaboratively with quality control and maintenance teams to ensure smooth operations. Developing strong problem-solving skills and staying up-to-date with manufacturing best practices can help overcome these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Plastics Process Technician, you need a solid understanding of plastics manufacturing, machine operation, and quality control, often supported by technical training or relevant experience. Familiarity with injection molding machines, robotics, and quality management systems like ISO 9001 is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help individuals excel in this role. These abilities ensure efficient production, consistent product quality, and a safe working environment in the plastics industry.

What is the difference between Key Plastics vs Plastic Fabricator?

AspectKey PlasticsPlastic Fabricator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles may need technical trainingUsually requires similar certifications, including technical training or vocational certificates
Work EnvironmentManufacturing facilities, assembly lines, or production plantsWorkshop or manufacturing setting, often involving custom fabrication
Industry UsageUsed across plastics manufacturing, automotive, and packaging industriesCommonly found in custom plastic fabrication, signage, and industrial applications

Key Plastics and Plastic Fabricator roles share similar credentials and work environments, often within manufacturing settings. While Key Plastics may focus on specific plastic products, Plastic Fabricators typically handle custom projects. Both roles are essential in the plastics industry, with overlapping skills and industry usage.

What are Key Plastics?

Key Plastics typically refers to companies specializing in the manufacturing and supply of plastic components, often for the automotive, consumer goods, or industrial sectors. These companies design, engineer, and produce plastic parts using various molding and fabrication techniques. The term can also refer to specific roles within such companies, such as engineers or technicians who work with plastic materials. Key Plastics companies may offer services ranging from prototyping and tooling to full-scale production, ensuring quality and efficiency in the plastic components they deliver.
More about Key Plastics jobs
What cities are hiring for Key Plastics jobs? Cities with the most Key Plastics job openings:
What states have the most Key Plastics jobs? States with the most job openings for Key Plastics jobs include:
Infographic showing various Key Plastics job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $26,000 per year, or $12.5 per hour.
Sr Procurement/Sourcing Specialist - Plastics

Sr Procurement/Sourcing Specialist - Plastics

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Pittsburgh, PA

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 396 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

185th of 515 rated manufacturers


Job description

Work Schedule

Standard (Mon-Fri)

Environmental Conditions

Office

Job Description

The Sr. Procurement/Sourcing Specialist – Plastics, drives the execution of complex Plastics category strategies which may include Injection Molding, Blow Molding, and Rotational Molding. The role encompasses multiple sites to continuously improve the assigned categories of spend. Collaborates with a cross-functional team of sourcing, operations, technical, finance and other colleagues to prioritize sourcing initiatives, develops sourcing strategies, negotiates contracts, supports spend migration from incumbent to preferred suppliers, and manages preferred supplier relationships

Scale of Responsibilities

· Acts as the key Plastics Category interface with relevant Thermo Fisher business divisions ensuring alignment of strategies and financial targets

· Accountable for the multi-year category strategy and plan objectives, timelines, and goals

· Analyzes cross-divisional spending and develops global strategic sourcing plans to reduce the total cost of ownership for all business units

· Demonstrates a measurable reduction in year over year total cost of ownership for the goods and services being sourced without compromising quality and service levels

· Uses financial planning, forecasting, P&L performance, inventory, cash flow, tariffs and inflation to inform strategy

Technical Responsibilities

· Monitors market intelligence and key trends, assesses impact and refines category plans to support business requirements

· Engages and supports division/site procurement teams and other key colleagues to qualify preferred suppliers & migrate spend from incumbent, non-preferred suppliers

· Analyze category supplier performance data to find opportunities for supplier performance improvement and to establish continuous improvement goals

· Actively participates in supplier business reviews with suppliers to ensure both parties meet obligations under the terms of agreement, including performance standards

· Handles strategic contracts across suppliers, products and services within category

· Facilitates free-flow of spend intelligence and analysis to internal business leaders in order to enhance their decision making

· Drives negotiations for global agreements aligned with category strategy

Leadership Responsibilities

· Collaborates with cross-functional colleagues (quality, technical, operations, finance, etc.) to ensure all category sourcing activities are aligned to a common set of goals and priorities

· Establishes category plans and priorities globally and ensures alignment with divisional business priorities

· Conduct Plastics Savings Kaizen and Ideation programs with cross-functional business teams

Education, Experience, Knowledge and Skills

· Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or related field.

· Minimum of 5 years procurement/sourcing experience

· Business insight – knows how to assess market/business requirements dynamics and negotiate agreements that yield meaningful business value

· Experience working in highly regulated industries

· Experience in a continuous improvement environment with a track record of achieving significant year over year results

· Demonstrated consultative/collaborative style in performing sourcing activities

· Influences without authority to motivate a cross-functional team in multiple geographies.

· CPSM or equivalent is preferred

· Hands-on manufacturing and/or supply chain experience is preferred

· Experience in life sciences, medical device, or pharmaceutical industries is preferred

· Ability to travel 10-20%


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