1

Plastic Compounding Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Due to growth, West Michigan Compounding is seeking Blending Operators for all three shifts to set up, operate, and tend blending machines to mix or blend re-grind plastic and other materials and ...

Blending Operator

Greenville, MI · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Due to growth, West Michigan Compounding is seeking Blending Operators for all three shifts to set up, operate, and tend blending machines to mix or blend re-grind plastic and other materials and ...

... plastic (Engineering thermoplastics resins) manufacturer (polymerisation or compounding). Ideal candidates will have experience of technical service at plastic compounder) and/or experience of ...

... plastic (Engineering thermoplastics resins) manufacturer (polymerisation or compounding). Ideal candidates will have experience of technical service at plastic compounder) and/or experience of ...

... plastic (Engineering thermoplastics resins) manufacturer (polymerisation or compounding). Ideal candidates will have experience of technical service at plastic compounder) and/or experience of ...

For over 20 years, West Michigan Compounding (WMC) has been a trusted leader in the plastics industry. We take pride in our steady growth, commitment to innovation, and dedication to delivering high ...

Extrusion Operator (Plastics) 2nd Shift

Greenville, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

For over 20 years, West Michigan Compounding (WMC) has been a trusted leader in the plastics industry. We take pride in our steady growth, commitment to innovation, and dedication to delivering high ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Plastic Compounding information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$17

$27

How much do plastic compounding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic compounding in Michigan is $17.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Plastic Compounding vs Plastic Processing Technician?

AspectPlastic CompoundingPlastic Processing Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, laboratoriesManufacturing lines, production facilities
Industry UsageMaterial formulation, resin productionProcessing, molding, and finishing plastics
Common Search/ComparisonPlastic Compounding vs Plastic Processing Technician

Plastic compounding involves creating custom plastic formulations by mixing raw materials, while a plastic processing technician operates machinery to mold or shape plastics. Both roles are essential in plastics manufacturing but focus on different stages of production. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right career path or job opportunity within the plastics industry.

What is plastic compounding?

Plastic compounding is the process of blending polymers with additives, fillers, and colorants to create customized plastic materials with specific properties. This process helps manufacturers produce plastics that meet particular requirements for strength, flexibility, color, or other characteristics. Compounding can be performed using various equipment, such as extruders, to ensure consistent mixing and quality. The resulting compounded plastic pellets are then used in injection molding, extrusion, or other manufacturing methods to produce finished products.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in plastic compounding, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in plastic compounding often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent material quality, troubleshooting machinery issues, and ensuring precise formulation of additives. Managing these challenges requires attention to detail, a strong understanding of polymer science, and effective communication with quality control and production teams. Staying updated with the latest equipment and process technologies, as well as participating in ongoing training, can also help address these issues and contribute to a smoother workflow.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Plastic Compounding, and why are they important?

To excel in Plastic Compounding, you need a solid understanding of polymer science, material handling, and quality control, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant technical training. Familiarity with compounding extruders, mixers, and laboratory testing equipment, as well as knowledge of safety standards and certifications like OSHA, is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving skills make individuals stand out in this field. These competencies ensure the production of high-quality plastic materials, maintain workplace safety, and support efficient manufacturing processes.
What job categories do people searching Plastic Compounding jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Compounding jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Plastic Compounding job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,772 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
Plastic Process Technician - Nights

Plastic Process Technician - Nights

Cascade Engineering

Grand Rapids, MI

$24.76 - $39.78/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Cascade Engineering is a Family of Companies that invests in our triple bottom line philosophy - People, Planet and Profit. We have been in business for over 50 years in Grand Rapids, Michigan. We manufacture injection molding/plastic products for automotive, office furniture, polymer compounding, waste and recycling industries. We focus on driving organizational excellence through a people centered leadership culture based on the principles of 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

Are you looking for a positive and encouraging environment? Are you seeking a position where you are included, recognized and celebrated? You belong here! Are you excited for what is ahead? We are too!

Scope of Responsibility

Cascade Engineering is currently hiring for the position of Set Up/Process Technician level 3 or 4. In this role, you will be responsible for setting up, shutting down, mold changes and troubleshooting mold defects and machines. In this opportunity, you will have the ability to develop and grow your technical skills.

You will have an opportunity to work with a diverse, supportive and driven team across all the plants! With this opportunity, you will be collaborating with your team to produce high quality components while learning to build new processes and work as a team to solve complex issues while working with large-scale plastic molding presses.

Location: Buursma Plant (4950 37th St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512)

Shift: Night shift from 6pm - 6:10am (working 3 days one week, 4 days the next including every other weekend)

Target Pay:The target starting base salary for this position is $24.76 - $39.78/hour (plus $1.20 shift premium plus quarterly bonus incentive). Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Cascade Engineering considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.

General Responsibilities

Day to day - Responsible for starting up and shutting down of plastic injection molding equipment. Conducting timely and accurate installations and removal of injection molds and dies. Assisting with troubleshooting of plastic injection molding presses

Troubleshooting - In this role, you will lean on your extensive knowledge of plastics and communicate any equipment issues/breakdowns to maintenance. Troubleshoot molding defects such as splay and short shots and identify continuous improvement opportunities. You will have the opportunity to work in a team environment to diagnose, troubleshoot and solve complex issues dealing with robots, hot stamp technology and other tooling issues

Support - While working collaboratively with all levels of the team you will be responsible for offering support where needed. This could include cleaning hoppers, doing moisture checks and setting up dryers. You could be called upon to help with various mold changes, crane operation and color changes

Culture Bearer

  • Understands and supports the values of the Triple Bottom Line (TBL)
  • Exhibits high moral and ethical standards and high integrity
  • Values people regardless of their background
  • Exhibits the traits of a servant leader
  • Exhibit the principles of 7 Habits and Emotional Intelligence
  • Encourages open dialogue and communication
  • Develops high trust relationships within all levels of the organization
  • Pursues Excellence

At Cascade Engineering, we welcome and celebrate diversity and inclusion. We are committed to fostering an authentic workplace where everyone belongs and thrives, and we look forward to welcoming candidates who are enthusiastic about contributing to our community. If you are passionate about this role, we encourage you to apply. We recognize that women and people of color are often underrepresented in manufacturing and want to see this change. Whenmaking hiring decisions, we believe in considering the whole person and the life experiences they bring to our teams. Our diversity drives our innovation and has been integral to our success.