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Plastic Engineering Technology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Plastics Design Engineer

Mishawaka, IN · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Engineering REPORTING TO: Director of Engineering MAKS Plastics, LLC is a rotational molding and ... Stay updated with industry trends and advancements in thermoforming technology * Ensure compliance ...

Plastics Design Engineer

Mishawaka, IN · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Engineering REPORTING TO: Director of Engineering MAKS Plastics, LLC is a rotational molding and ... Stay updated with industry trends and advancements in thermoforming technology * Ensure compliance ...

Who We Are Process Technology is a global leader designing and manufacturing cutting edge thermal ... Collaborate with engineering and production teams to troubleshoot and resolve issues. * Adhere to ...

... d the development of new plastic injection tooling projects to meet a wide range of product ... engineering groups on material selection, design feasibility and aesthetics of new plastic part ...

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Plastic Engineering Technology information

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$14

$32

$53

How much do plastic engineering technology jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic engineering technology in the United States is $32.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.24 and $38.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Plastic Engineering Technology vs Mechanical Engineering Technician?

AspectPlastic Engineering TechnologyMechanical Engineering Technician
CredentialsAssociate degree or diploma in Plastic Engineering TechnologyAssociate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology
Work EnvironmentPlastic manufacturing plants, labs, R&DManufacturing, maintenance, and testing facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in plastics and polymer industriesBroader manufacturing sectors including plastics

Plastic Engineering Technicians focus on plastics-specific processes, materials, and product development, while Mechanical Engineering Technicians work across various mechanical systems. Both roles require technical education and support manufacturing, but Plastic Engineering Technology specialists have specialized knowledge in plastics, making them essential in plastics-focused industries.

What is Plastic Engineering Technology?

Plastic Engineering Technology is a specialized field focused on the design, development, and manufacturing of plastic products and materials. Professionals in this area work with various polymers to create goods ranging from packaging to automotive parts. They apply principles of engineering, chemistry, and material science to improve plastic properties, ensure product quality, and optimize manufacturing processes. Careers in plastic engineering technology can be found in industries such as automotive, medical devices, consumer products, and packaging.

What jobs can you get with a plastics engineering degree?

A plastics engineering technology degree prepares individuals for roles such as plastics engineer, process technician, quality control analyst, product development engineer, and manufacturing supervisor. These jobs typically involve working with plastic materials, processing equipment, and quality standards in manufacturing environments. Skills in CAD software, material testing, and understanding of polymer properties are often required.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can reach salaries of $500,000 or more, often through a combination of base pay, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Plastic Engineering Technologist, you need a solid background in polymer science, materials engineering, and manufacturing processes, typically supported by a relevant degree or diploma. Familiarity with CAD software, injection molding machines, and quality control systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this field. These competencies are vital for ensuring efficient production, maintaining product quality, and driving innovation in plastics manufacturing.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require advanced technical skills, management responsibilities, or work in high-demand industries.

Is plastic engineering a good career?

Plastic engineering technology is a viable career that involves designing, developing, and testing plastic products and materials. It requires knowledge of materials science, manufacturing processes, and often certification or technical training, with job opportunities in manufacturing, product development, and quality control. The field offers steady employment prospects and the potential for specialization in areas like injection molding or polymer analysis.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Plastic Engineering Technology, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Plastic Engineering Technology often encounter challenges such as staying up-to-date with rapidly evolving materials, navigating complex manufacturing processes, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Addressing these challenges typically involves ongoing professional development, close collaboration with cross-functional teams (such as R&D, quality assurance, and production), and leveraging industry-standard software and testing protocols. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as projects frequently require coordination across departments and with external suppliers.
More about Plastic Engineering Technology jobs
What states have the most Plastic Engineering Technology jobs? States with the most job openings for Plastic Engineering Technology jobs include:
Infographic showing various Plastic Engineering Technology job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,400 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Sr. Supplier Process Engineer - Plastics

Milwaukee Tool

Brookfield, WI • On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Description:
WE CREATE EMPOWERED LEADERS! At Milwaukee Tool we firmly believe that our People and our Culture are the secrets to our success. As Senior Quality Engineer, you'll be integral to our production operations, leading quality initiatives that ensure our motor products meet the highest standards of performance and reliability.
The Supplier Process Engineer (SPE) provides quality and technical guidance to engineering on cross-functional R&D and Operations projects, including New Product Development, Product Support, and Value Engineering. The primary duty of this position is to provide supplier selection support, technical expertise, and supplier development for Milwaukee Tool's key suppliers. SPE will participate in on-site supplier process assessments/audits to assess supplier technical capabilities and provide on-site support as needed. This position will develop action plans and drive implementation to close supplier technical gaps within component manufacturing.
Behind our doors you'll be empowered every day to own it, drive it, and do what it takes to support the biggest breakthroughs in the industry. With the support and resources of one of the fastest-growing brands in the construction industry, you'll help shape the future of manufacturing quality at Milwaukee Tool-where innovation meets precision, and every product reflects our commitment to excellence.
Your Role on Our Team:
Plastics Process Expertise & Tooling Leadership
  • Serve as Milwaukee Tool's plastics processing expert, providing technical leadership in thermoplastics, mold design, process setup, and optimization.
  • Apply expert-level understanding of hot/cold runner systems, valve gates, core-pull systems, material shrink, and mold flow analysis to assess and improve supplier processes.
  • Lead tooling-related activities, including design reviews, maintenance evaluations, and validation of new tools through T0/T1/Tn builds.
  • Collaborate with engineering on process improvements, tooling robustness, and Value Engineering opportunities.

Supplier Capability, Auditing & Quality Systems
  • Execute end-to-end supplier capability management: process audits, molding assessments, and readiness validation.
  • Identify technical gaps in supplier molding processes and drive detailed action plans to close them.
  • Implement process-focused supplier quality systems emphasizing controls, metrology, data-driven decision making, and QMS compliance.

Part Approval & Program Launch
  • Lead plastics-related PPAP deliverables including DFM, PFMEA, control plans, capability studies, and readiness reviews.
  • Ensure suppliers meet timing and performance expectations for injection-molded components.

Issue Resolution & Quality Performance
  • Lead structured problem-solving (8D, Six Sigma, Red X), ensuring permanent corrective actions.
  • Analyze trends, validate root causes, and deploy prevention systems that stabilize supplier molding capability.

Process Capability & Statistical Control
  • Validate molding process capability using Cp/Cpk, DOE, control charts, and other statistical methods.
  • Ensure suppliers maintain repeatable, predictable molding parameters with robust process windows.

Leadership, Influence & Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Partner with engineering, purchasing, and quality teams to communicate technical insights and influence supplier decisions.
  • Support risk assessment, technical reviews, and supplier transition efforts.

Risk Management
  • Identify and mitigate risks related to tooling, process variation, capacity, and supplier stability.

TOOLS you'll bring with you:
  • BS in Plastics Engineering Technology or equivalent; RJG Master Molder I/II strongly preferred.
  • Minimum 5 years hands-on thermoplastics processing experience.
  • Strong understanding of mold design, tooling principles, material data, and injection molding processes.
  • Demonstrated leadership in complex project execution within cross-functional environments.
  • Experience with supplier management, including assessment, auditing, development, performance evaluation, and improvement planning.
  • Working knowledge of Quality Management Systems (QMS), including NCMR, SCAR, PPAP, APQP, FMEA, and root cause methodologies.
  • Travel required up to 25-50% domestically and internationally, sometimes on short notice

Other TOOLS we prefer you to have:
  • Professional certifications (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma Green Belt).
  • Experience with ISO-9001, TS16949, or VDA 6.3 audits.
  • Self-starter who thrives in fast-paced environments and builds organizational capability.
  • Ability to identify risks, communicate effectively, build action plans, and deliver results.

Milwaukee Tool is an equal opportunity employer.