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Plastic Compounding Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Process Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI ยท On-site

$70K - $104K/yr

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 ...

Truck Driver - Local

Grand Rapids, MI ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

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 ...

Truck Driver - Local

Grand Rapids, MI ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

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 ...

Showing results 41-47

Plastic Compounding information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$17

$27

How much do plastic compounding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 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 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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Plastic Compounding jobs in Michigan?

For Plastic Compounding jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Plastic Compounding job openings in Michigan as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,772 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Training and Development Manager

Grand Rapids, MI โ€ข On-site

Cascade Engineering
Plastics Product Manufacturingย โ€ขย 501 - 1,000 employees

$70K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 hours ago


Key responsibilities

  • Partner with leaders and employees to develop talent, strengthen leadership, and guide meaningful change.

  • Lead the skills matrix process, facilitate talent review and succession planning, and manage assessment tools for organizational development.

  • Oversee training programs, administer the learning management system, and coordinate employee coaching and career development activities.


Job description

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
Join us as a Training & Development Manager (or Sr. Training & Development Manager, depending on your experience and qualifications). Internally, this role is known as the People Advancement Manager of the People Advancement of the Cascade Enterprise System (PACES). If you're passionate about helping people grow and succeed, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact. As a trusted coach and advisor, you'll partner with leaders and employees across the organization to develop talent, strengthen leadership, and guide meaningful change. Inspired by Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood, you'll foster a high-trust culture where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential
Location: Ron Jimmerson Plant at 5050 33rd St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI. 49512
Shift: Days
Target Pay: The target starting base salary for this position is $70,000 - $113,000/year (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
Talent Assessment
  • Leads the skills matrix process for the organization in collaboration with department leaders, ensuring both positional and individual matrices remain current
  • Facilitates Talent Review and Succession Planning as directed by the Executive Vice President and the Director of Human Resources
  • Manages the Personal Effectiveness Profile (PEP), DiSC assessments, and New Leader Assimilation (NLA) processes for the organization

Talent & Culture Development
  • Administers the learning management system, including reporting on key metrics, curating purchased content and developing custom content as directed
  • Coordinates the annual review process in partnership with HRIS Manager under the direction of the Executive Vice President and the Director of Human Resources
  • Oversees training programs for Pay for Contribution (PFC) and Technical roles
  • Provides employee coaching using Interview Feedback Forms, PEP and NLA survey results, and career development conversations
  • Manages the Tuition/Scholarship Benefit process ensuring compliance with policy, timely submission of paperwork and processing of pre-payments and reimbursements
  • Oversees administration of existing training grants and pursues additional funding opportunities to meet business needs (e.g., Going Pro Talent Fund)
  • Collaborates with training vendors, colleges, and trade schools to develop advancement pathways and course catalogs aligned with skills matrices
  • Facilitates the planning and hosting of a bi-monthly Leadership Forums

Change Management
  • Supports the Executive Vice President and Director of HR with internal communications and change management initiatives
  • Facilitates organizational changes to minimize resistance and maximize adoption
  • Leads communication, training, and support to ensure smooth transitions and positive outcomes
  • Motivates and influences others to guide teams through change and build a culture of continuous improvement

Administrative
  • Ensure class rosters and completion records are accurate and updated promptly
  • Evaluates effectiveness in developing talent to meet the needs of the organization
  • Manages direct report schedules in UKG
  • Prepares and generates training and talent development reports as directed

Team Leadership & Management
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing People Advancement team
  • Foster a positive and collaborative work environment

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. When making 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.
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree or related experience; a combination of education and experience may be considered
  • 3-5 years' experience in a Training & Development or Human Resources role
  • 2-3 years leadership experience
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex data and draw meaningful conclusions
  • Demonstrate expertise in program design and curriculum development
  • Experience in administering a learning management system
  • Experience with employee communications and culture change or change management initiatives
  • Skilled classroom instructor able to engage diverse functional and leadership audiences
  • Strong leadership, communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence without direct formal authority
  • Excellent project management and organizational abilities with a proven capacity to prioritize and manage multiple tasks
  • Strategic thinker who is detail oriented, proactive, and able to work under pressure
  • Proficient in Microsoft 365

Preferred
  • Bachelor's Degree in Organizational Development, Training & Development, Human Resources, or related field
  • SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP credential
  • Experience in applying for and administrating, grant programs such as the Going Pro Talent Fund
  • Familiarity with LinkedIn Learning
  • Proven track record in leading change management initiatives, employee relations and internal communications
  • Experience in managing training and development programs within a manufacturing environment

Benefits
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance - Starting on Day 1
  • Life Insurance (Company Paid and Supplemental)
  • 401K with match - Starting on Day 1
  • Flex Spending and Health Savings Accounts
  • Quarterly Bonus Program
  • Paid Time Off
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability (Company Paid)
  • Onsite Medical Clinic

Perks
  • Weekly Pay
  • Childcare Assistance (Tri-Share)
  • Flexible Hours & Scheduling
  • Attendance Recognition Program
  • Voucher programs for Safety Shoes and Prescription Safety Glasses
  • Employee Discount Programs
  • Employee Referral & Retention Bonus Program
  • Adoption Assistance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Free Uniforms / T-shirts
  • Employee Resource Groups
  • Smoking Cessation Products and Programs