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Plastic Process Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Honor Plastics & Molding

Process Engineer

Pomona, CA · On-site

$83K - $85K/yr

The process engineer is responsible for maintaining daily production uptime of fully automated molding machines, including all subsequent pre- and post-mold operations such as trimming, insert ...

PPG

Aerospace Transparency Process Engineer

Sylmar, CA · On-site

... plastic transparencies * Define and control key process parameters including abrasive selection ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering or similar, or equivalent hands-on experience * 5+ years of ...

Intuitive

Sr. Supplier Process Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$122K - $157K/yr

... plastic injection molding experience along with skills to select and develop suppliers. Roles ... the engineering change order process Own and drive to closure supplier variances from symptom ...

Intuitive

Sr. Supplier Process Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$122K - $157K/yr

... plastic injection molding experience along with skills to select and develop suppliers. Roles ... engineering change order process • Own and drive to closure supplier variances from symptom ...

Sierra Circuits inc.

Jr. Process Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

The Process Engineer is responsible for learning, understanding, and monitoring all processes in ... Ability to wear/work with common forms of rubber and plastic use for PPE. * Occasionally lift up to ...

Apple

Tooling Engineer - Plastics

Cupertino, CA · On-site

... class plastic tooling. Lead tool design and build, tool and process development and tool ... Train engineers at supplier plants in Asia to utilize new tooling materials and fabrication ...

Apple

Tooling Engineer - Plastics

Cupertino, CA

$163K - $246K/yr

Train engineers at supplier plants in Asia to utilize new tooling materials and fabrication ... Lens and optical tooling experience Experience in developing plastic processing parameters.

Apple

Tooling Engineer - Plastics

Cupertino, CA · On-site

... class plastic tooling. Lead tool design and build, tool and process development and tool ... Train engineers at supplier plants in Asia to utilize new tooling materials and fabrication ...

Apple

Tooling Engineer - Plastics

Cupertino, CA

$194K - $293K/yr

Train engineers at supplier plants in Asia to utilize new tooling materials and fabrication ... Lens and optical tooling experience Experience in developing plastic processing parameters.

Professional Search Group - Orange County

Be Seen First

Plastic Injection Mold Process Technician

Tustin, CA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

... oriented Plastic Injection Mold Process Technician to join our manufacturing team. In this role ... Proficiency with programmable logic controllers (PLCs) for machine automation and troubleshooting.

General Atomics

Engineer V

Poway, CA · On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

We have an exciting opportunity for a Staff Material and Process Engineer with our ASI Division ... plastics, paints, adhesives/sealants, etc.), manufacturing processes (machining, heat treatment ...

General Atomics

Engineer V

Poway, CA · On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

Provide Materials Engineering support for Mechanical Engineering Department for * Large Unmanned ... plastics, paints, adhesives/sealants, etc.), manufacturing processes (machining, heat treatment ...

Ambrit Engineering

Process Technician

Santa Ana, CA

$28 - $34/hr

Join a Growing Injection Molding Team at Ambrit Engineering! We are a growing Southern California plastic injection molding manufacturer seeking experienced Process Technicians with strong ...

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All JobsPlastic Process Engineer JobsPlastic Process Engineer Jobs in California

Plastic Process Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$90.8K

$140.6K

How much do plastic process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastic process engineer in California is $90,813.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by plastic process engineers in optimizing manufacturing processes?

Plastic Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality while scaling up production, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and minimizing material waste. They must continuously monitor and adjust processing parameters like temperature, pressure, and cycle time to ensure efficiency and compliance with specifications. Collaboration with design, quality, and maintenance teams is crucial to quickly resolve issues and implement process improvements. Staying updated with new materials and technologies also plays a key role in overcoming these challenges and advancing in the field.

What does a plastic process engineer do?

A Plastic Process Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing processes involved in the manufacturing of plastic products. They work with various types of plastic materials and molding technologies, such as injection molding, extrusion, and blow molding. Their duties often include troubleshooting production issues, improving process efficiency, ensuring product quality, and collaborating with design and production teams to implement best practices. They also play a key role in selecting materials, setting process parameters, and maintaining compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

What is the difference between Plastic Process Engineer vs Plastic Technician?

AspectPlastic Process EngineerPlastic Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in plastics engineering, chemical engineering, or related fieldTechnical diploma or associate degree in plastics technology or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, optimize, and oversee manufacturing processes in production facilitiesOperate and maintain plastic processing equipment on the production floor
ResponsibilitiesProcess development, troubleshooting, and process improvementMachine setup, operation, and quality checks

The Plastic Process Engineer focuses on designing and improving plastic manufacturing processes, requiring a higher level of education and analytical skills. In contrast, the Plastic Technician handles day-to-day machine operation and maintenance. Both roles are essential in the plastics industry, but they differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plastic process engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plastic Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical or mechanical engineering, polymer science, and process optimization, often backed by a relevant degree. Familiarity with CAD software, injection molding machines, statistical process control (SPC), and certifications like Six Sigma are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and drive continuous improvement. These competencies ensure efficient production, high product quality, and innovation in plastic manufacturing environments.
What are popular job titles related to Plastic Process Engineer jobs in California? For Plastic Process Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plastic Process Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Process Engineer jobs in California are:
Plastic Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Process Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,813 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Process Engineer

Honor Plastics & Molding

Pomona, CA • On-site

$83K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Purpose:
The process engineer is responsible for maintaining daily production uptime of fully automated molding machines, including all subsequent pre- and post-mold operations such as trimming, insert loading, and automated part handling. The process technician must have a good fundamental knowledge of the injection molding process, raw material, test methods, processing controls, and secondary equipment. This position directly reports to the Plant Manager.
Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Perform all start-up, shutdown, and troubleshooting of the molding process during normal production run.
  • Monitor all process parameters and peripherals in injection molding cell, including driers, thermal control units, and testing equipment to ensure correct operation and performance
  • Coordinate and/ or set up all secondary and auxiliary equipment as needed for each job
  • Ensure that materials requiring pre-drying are managed properly.
  • Assist with all mold insert changes
  • Coordinate and assist with new mold samplings including the molding process and the creation of full documentation on processing parameters.
  • Communicate with management, quality assurance, and shop floor daily to discuss all modeling related issues
  • Assist with the planning, purchase, installation, and qualification of new production equipment including injection machines; automation and robotics; material handling; and related auxiliary equipment system
  • Assist set-up technicians and material Handlers as needed
  • Implement technical solutions to meet customer cost, quality, and delivery expectations
  • Monitor and document issues with injection molds, and make recommendations for repair and refurbishment based on production requirements
  • Ensure that the production activities are carried out in accordance with approved procedures
  • Promote safety, quality, and environmental awareness at all times
  • Always follow department operational procedures.
  • Operate the machines as needed

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
  • High school diploma or equivalent qualification.
  • A minimum of 3 years' experience in a similar role (Preferred).
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and scientific molding experience would be beneficial
  • Good communication/Interpretation skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work in a fast pace, high change environment, with limited supervision
  • Demonstrated ability to start up, operate, and shut down injection molding machines and related process equipment

Pay Rate : $85,000 Yearly

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