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Plastic Composite Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Plastic Composite Engineer information

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$65K

$103.6K

$134K

How much do plastic composite engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastic composite engineer in the United States is $103,596.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $119,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plastic composite engineer?

Plastic Composite Engineers are professionals who specialize in designing, developing, and testing composite materials that include plastics combined with other materials to create products with enhanced properties. They work in industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and consumer goods to improve product durability, weight, and performance. Their responsibilities include selecting appropriate materials, overseeing manufacturing processes, and ensuring that composites meet specific technical and safety standards. They often collaborate with designers and manufacturers to create innovative solutions for modern engineering challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plastic composite engineer?

To thrive as a Plastic Composite Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, polymer engineering, and manufacturing processes, typically supported by a degree in chemical, mechanical, or materials engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, finite element analysis tools, and quality control systems is essential, along with knowledge of relevant industry standards and certifications such as Six Sigma or ISO. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and drive innovation in product development. These skills ensure the creation of durable, high-performance composite materials and products that meet industry and client requirements.

What are some common challenges plastic composite engineers face when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Plastic Composite Engineers often work closely with design, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams. One common challenge is ensuring that material specifications and processing methods meet both design intent and manufacturability, which can require extensive communication and compromise. Additionally, balancing cost constraints with performance requirements often involves negotiating with procurement and production departments. Effective collaboration and a strong understanding of each team's priorities are essential for successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Plastic Composite Engineer vs Materials Scientist?

AspectPlastic Composite EngineerMaterials Scientist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, or Physics
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, R&D labs, product developmentResearch labs, academic institutions, industrial R&D
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, sports equipment, consumer products

Plastic Composite Engineers focus on designing, testing, and manufacturing composite materials for specific applications, often working closely with production teams. Materials Scientists study the properties and behaviors of various materials, including plastics and composites, often in research settings. While both roles require knowledge of material properties, Plastic Composite Engineers are more application and production-oriented, whereas Materials Scientists focus on fundamental research and development.

How much do plastic composite engineers make in the US?

Plastic composite engineers in the US typically earn between $70,000 and $110,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in materials testing and CAD software may earn higher salaries. Entry-level positions generally start around $60,000 per year.

What are popular job titles related to Plastic Composite Engineer jobs?

For Plastic Composite Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Plastic Composite Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,596 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Industrial Facilities Systems

Winchester, VA • On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Locations

Showing 1 location Winchester, VA 22602, USA

  • On-site
  • Engineering
  • Full-Time
Description

When you work at Trex, you’re helping to grow and enhance a true original. You join a company that boldly launched an entire industry… and still leads the way.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, operation, and continuous improvement of complex industrial facility systems supporting manufacturing and process operations. This role is responsible for ensuring reliable, efficient, and safe performance of mechanical utility systems including chilled water, compressed dry air (CDA), vacuum, steam generation, hot oil, exhaust, air abatement, wastewater processing, HVAC, and material conveyance systems. The ideal candidate will combine strong technical expertise with practical problem-solving skills and hands‑on experience in industrial environments.

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Put safety first – Always!
  • Lead and foster our “people first” culture.
  • System Engineering & Design
    • Design, specify, and optimize mechanical utility systems (e.g., chillers, boilers, air compressors, vacuum systems, hot oil loops, HVAC).
    • Develop and maintain P&IDs, equipment specifications, and system documentation.
    • Lead design reviews and coordinate with internal stakeholders and external engineering firms.
  • Operations & Maintenance Support
    • Provide technical support to operations and maintenance teams to ensure reliable system performance.
    • Develop preventive and predictive maintenance plans for critical equipment.
    • Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis of mechanical and process system issues.
  • Project Management
    • Manage small to medium capital projects from concept through commissioning.
    • Prepare scope of work, cost estimates, and schedules.
    • Oversee vendor selection, equipment procurement, and installation activities.
  • Process & Energy Optimization
    • Analyze system performance and implement improvements to reduce energy consumption and operating costs.
    • Support sustainability initiatives and compliance with environmental standards.
  • Safety & Compliance
    • Ensure all systems comply with local and federal codes, standards, and safety regulations.
    • Participate in hazard analysis (PHA, HAZOP) and ensure safe design and operation of mechanical systems.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.
JOB LOCATION

Winchester, Virginia, United States

POSITION TYPE

Full-Time/Regular

EXPERIENCE

We are looking for leaders with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Chemical Engineering and a minimum 7 years of relevant experience in industrial or manufacturing facilities, preferably in plastic composite extrusion manufacturing, chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, or advanced manufacturing environments..

  • Required Skills & Experience
    • Strong knowledge of thermal systems, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer principles.
    • Proficient in design and operation of utility systems (chillers, boilers, CDA, vacuum, HVAC, etc.).
    • Familiar with ASME, ANSI, NFPA, and other relevant industry codes and standards.
    • Experience with AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar design software;
    • Strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
    • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
    • Proven ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
    • Proven ability to complete projects according to outlined scope, budget, and timeline
    • Experience presenting to stakeholders and / or Senior Leadership
    • Able to define and establish new, efficient processes with appropriate controls
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