ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Plastic Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Legrand North America

Design Engineer II

Warsaw, IN · On-site

Position Description At a Glance Legrand has an exciting opportunity for a Design Engineer II to ... • Plastic design experience • Aluminum extrusion knowledge • Electrical or controls ...

Technimark

Design Engineer

Asheboro, NC

Plastics background in injection molding Plastic Part Design-Consumer Packaging/Medical Device a plus * CAD design software: Pro Engineer, Creo, Solidworks, Catia, etc. * Analysis software: Moldflow ...

Technimark

Design Engineer

Asheboro, NC · On-site

Plastics background in injection molding Plastic Part Design-Consumer Packaging/Medical Device a plus * CAD design software: Pro Engineer, Creo, Solidworks, Catia, etc. * Analysis software: Moldflow ...

eShocan

Design Engineer

Livonia, MI · On-site

Design Engineer: Concept engineering and feasibility study for exterior trim components. Design and ... Specialize in metals and plastic molding processes. Define and maintain craftsmanship ...

Infiltrator Water Technologies

IWT

Old Saybrook, CT · On-site

$130K - $157K/yr

Infiltrator Water Technologies has an exciting new role available - Product Design Engineer II . We are seeking an experienced and talented Mechanical Engineer with expertise in plastic design. Here ...

Siri InfoSolutions Inc

Design Engineer

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

Design Engineer Location: Wauwatosa, WI, 53222 (100% Onsite preferred. Currently 4 days per week ... Should have hands on experience in designing of sheet metals| plastic parts. * Should have hands on ...

Placon Corporation

Design Engineer

Minneapolis, MN

Experience with thermoforming, plastics manufacturing, or tooling design * Knowledge of ... If you're passionate about engineering design, thrive in a collaborative environment, and want to ...

Placon Corporation

Design Engineer

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$70K - $77K/yr

Experience with thermoforming, plastics manufacturing, or tooling design * Knowledge of ... If you're passionate about engineering design, thrive in a collaborative environment, and want to ...

LidWorks, Co.

Tooling Design Engineer

Plant City, FL · Remote

$70K - $75K/yr

We are seeking a skilled Tooling Design Engineer to join our Engineering team. This role is ... The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in plastic tooling, equipment design, and 3D CAD ...

LidWorks

Tooling Design Engineer

Plant City, FL · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

We are seeking a skilled Tooling Design Engineer to join our Engineering team. This role is ... The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in plastic tooling, equipment design, and 3D CAD ...

Placon Corporation

Design Engineer

Madison, WI

$70K - $85K/yr

Design Engineer We're looking for a dependable Design Engineer who will support our Madison, WI ... Experience with thermoforming or plastics manufacturing preferred * Knowledge of quality systems ...

Placon Corporation

Design Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Design Engineer We're looking for a dependable Design Engineer who will support our Madison, WI ... Experience with thermoforming or plastics manufacturing preferred * Knowledge of quality systems ...

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 Jun 9, 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
Mechanical Design Engineer II-Innovation

Mechanical Design Engineer II-Innovation

Johnson Health Tech Companies

Cottage Grove, WI • On-site

$72K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Johnson Health Tech rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 417 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Position Overview:
We're on the hunt for a Mechanical Design Engineer II to join our Innovation Team! If you enjoy designing with a passion for bringing innovative ideas to life, are organized, detail-oriented, and ready to take on exciting challenges in development, this is the job for you. This is a non-supervisory position.
Responsibilities:
• Research, design and develop novel mechanical systems.
• Work with innovation team to translate ideas and concepts into prototypes.
• Build and validate prototypes
• Transform concepts into functional prototypes
• Participate in team meetings to align project scope, deliverables, and goals.
• Review data, evaluate product samples, and recommend design adjustments.
• Create CAD models and drawings for components and assemblies for prototypes.
• Analyze CAD models for feasibility and prototyping.
• Hold design reviews on CAD designs and prototypes.
• Adaptability to support other projects as assigned
Requirements
Education:
• BS in Mechanical Engineering or related field required
Experience:
• 3+ years of design experience
• Experience w/ plastic injection molding
• Experience designing consumer products preferred
Other Requirements:
• Proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks)
• Strong mechanical aptitude, with hobbies or projects showcasing your passion for design
• Word, Excel, PowerPoint
• Ability and willingness to travel both internationally and domestically preferred
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work well with numerous diverse groups and individuals
Skills:
Engineering Knowledge:
• ASME Y14.5
• Familiarity with metal and plastic manufacturing processes and secondary operations
• 3D CAD (including 2D drawings and 3D models - A-side plastic surfacing & B-side plastics design a plus)
• Familiar with the concepts of DFMA
• Tolerance stack analysis
• Ability to design, select and perform analysis of: bearings, shafts, transmission belts, sheaves & pulleys, keys and key seats, couplings, clutches & brakes, o-rings, retaining rings, springs, cables, fasteners, threads, etc.
• Familiarity with numerous materials and their properties including steels, aluminum, and plastics
Product and Market Knowledge:
• Consumer products development/engineering experience
• Has worked on products requiring industrial design
• Understands basic fitness knowledge
• Understands how customers interface w/product
• Understands human ergonomic issues
Benefits:
We offer an excellent compensation package and team-oriented work environment with growth opportunities. Some of our outstanding benefits include:
• Health & Dental Insurance
• Company paid Life Insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid Time Off benefits
• Product discounts
• Wellness programs
Equal Opportunity Employer, including Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.

Apply