ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Plastic Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mack Molding

Plastics Design Engineer

Arlington, VT · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Plans and directs complex engineering design and development projects to support a number of ... Understanding and selecting plastic materials for manufacturing and functional requirements * Plans ...

Mack Molding

Plastics Design Engineer

Arlington, VT · On-site

Plans and directs complex engineering design and development projects to support a number of ... Understanding and selecting plastic materials for manufacturing and functional requirements * Plans ...

Mack Molding

Plastics Design Engineer

Arlington, VT · On-site

Plans and directs complex engineering design and development projects to support a number of ... Understanding and selecting plastic materials for manufacturing and functional requirements * Plans ...

Midland-Marvel Recruiters

Design Engineer

Woodland, WA

$75K - $100K/yr

Required Education and/or Experience * 2 years + experience with plastic part design, preference for automotive engineering. * Associates Degree or Bachelor's Degree preferred, but not required.

Midland-Marvel Recruiters

Design Engineer

Dyersburg, TN · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Required Education and/or Experience * 2 years + experience with plastic part design, preference for automotive engineering. * Associates Degree or Bachelor's Degree preferred, but not required.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPlastic Design Engineer Jobs

Plastic Design Engineer information

See salary details

$35K

$94.9K

$122.5K

How much do plastic design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastic design engineer in the United States is $94,938.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Plastic Design Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectPlastic Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Plastics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related; certifications like CPD or CSPBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related; certifications like PE or EIT
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing plants, R&D centersDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, R&D centers
Industry UsagePlastic product manufacturing, injection molding, packagingMachinery, automotive, consumer products
Common Search/ComparisonPlastic Design Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer

The Plastic Design Engineer specializes in designing plastic components and products, focusing on material properties and manufacturing processes like injection molding. In contrast, the Mechanical Design Engineer works on a broader range of mechanical systems and components, including metals and other materials. Both roles require engineering degrees and similar certifications, but their focus areas and industries differ, making each role unique in its application and expertise.

What does a Plastic Design Engineer do?

A Plastic Design Engineer is responsible for designing and developing plastic components and products, often used in industries such as automotive, consumer goods, and electronics. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed models and drawings, select appropriate materials, and ensure that designs meet performance, safety, and cost requirements. These engineers also collaborate with manufacturing teams to optimize mold designs for production efficiency and quality. Their work often involves testing prototypes, troubleshooting design issues, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Overall, they play a crucial role in bringing plastic products from concept to production.

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

To thrive as a Plastic Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering, materials science (especially polymers), and CAD modeling, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with design software like SolidWorks or CATIA, and knowledge of manufacturing processes such as injection molding, are essential, with certifications in CAD or plastics engineering being advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective communication set standout professionals apart in this role. These skills are crucial for developing innovative, manufacturable plastic components that meet performance, cost, and quality standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Plastic Design Engineers when working with manufacturers, and how can they be addressed?

Plastic Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring manufacturability of complex parts, managing material selection constraints, and meeting tight tolerances during production. Effective communication with manufacturers early in the design process helps address these issues, as does familiarity with various molding processes and tooling limitations. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, including tooling engineers and quality assurance, can also help mitigate potential production issues and ensure the final product meets design and quality expectations.
More about Plastic Design Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Plastic Design Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Plastic Design Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Plastic Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Plastic Design Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Plastic Design Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Design Engineer jobs are:
Plastic Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,938 per year, or $45.6 per hour.
Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer

Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer

K-Tek Resourcing LLC

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$88K - $122K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer

Location: Milwaukee, USA

100% onsite

About the Role

  • Very Good experience in onsite-offshore coordination
  • Experience in Mechanical design using CREO and Windchill PLM
  • Good knowledge in sustenance engineering
  • In-depth understanding of manufacturing processes such as machining, Brazing, welding, sheet metal forming & operations
  • Good knowledge in plastic design and manufacturing process
  • Assembly and part tolerancing including GD&T
  • Interact with manufacturing and service teams to support product transition into manufacturing.
  • Be flexible and adaptive to adjust project focus based on priority changes.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills, ability to make technical presentations

Apply