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Plastic Process Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vast

Materials & Processes Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$137.76K - $195.55K/yr

Multidisciplinary in plastics, decorative finishing, fabrics and textiles, polymeric films ... Materials and Processes Engineer II: $112,340 - $159,468 * Senior Materials and Processes Engineer ...

Cohu

Mechanical Engineer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer with strong expertise in automation equipment design ... Working knowledge of materials, coatings, plastics, manufacturing processes, GD&T, and design for ...

Cohu

Mechanical Engineer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer with strong expertise in automation equipment design ... Working knowledge of materials, coatings, plastics, manufacturing processes, GD&T, and design for ...

Balda C Brewer

Quality Engineer (ISO 13485)

Ontario, CA · On-site

$90K - $135K/yr

Collaborate with Program Managers, Process Engineers, and/or Validation Engineers to execute ... Previous experience in plastic injection molding related environment. * Demonstrated experience to ...

TalentBurst, Inc.

Component Engineer 4

Sunnyvale, CA

Component Engineer 4 Location: Sunnyvale, CA (Hybrid) Duration: 1 year Description: The mission of ... bonding processes Plastic Injection Molding or other plastic forming processes Die casting or ...

Protingent

Component Engineer 4

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$80 - $86/hr

Job Title : Component Engineer 4 Position Description : Protingent Staffing has an exciting ... Plastic Injection Molding or other plastic forming processes * Die casting or Thixomolding

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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 May 29, 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 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 11% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,813 per year, or $43.7 per hour.
Process/Setup Technician - PS311251

Process/Setup Technician - PS311251

PlasticStaffing

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$22 - $55/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

PlasticStaffing.com is the largest executive search firm specializing in Plastic molding, Chemical manufactruing, and Packaging industries. For the past 25+ years, we have assisted thousands of candidates by identifying, interviewing and confidentially connecting them to an ideal role in the industry. Our goal is to be a strategic partner with each of our clients and a career management consultant to our candidates, with our company culture built with honesty and integrity.

There is no charge to assist candidates having industry experience. To get started, we only require your updated resume, your honesty, and a few moments of your time over the phone.


Process/Setup Technician - PS311251
 
Inductry: Plastic Injection Molding

Compensation: $22 - $55/hour (DOE) + comprehensive benefits package

Employment Type: Full-Time (1st & 2nd Shift Available)

Reporting To: Production Manager 

About the Opportunity:
We are seeking an accomplished Injection Molding Process Technician to join our world-class manufacturing team. This critical role requires an expert in process optimization, equipment maintenance, and quality assurance to drive operational excellence in our plastic injection molding facility. Exceptional candidates may qualify for relocation assistance.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Execute precision setup, operation, and monitoring of injection molding equipment

  • Develop and optimize process parameters for new molds to ensure production consistency

  • Perform advanced troubleshooting of mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems

  • Conduct root cause analysis for defect investigations and implement corrective actions

  • Maintain comprehensive documentation of processes, maintenance, and quality checks

  • Collaborate with engineering teams to implement continuous improvement initiatives

  • Adhere to and promote strict safety protocols and 5S workplace organization standards

Required Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of hands-on injection molding processing experience

  • 3+ years of equipment maintenance experience

  • Proven ability to develop and document robust process parameters

  • Strong mechanical aptitude with advanced troubleshooting skills

  • Excellent communication and team collaboration abilities

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Associate degree or technical certification in plastics technology or related field

  • RJG Master Molder I certification or equivalent scientific molding expertise

  • Experience with automation systems and robotics

  • Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles

This position offers competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities for career growth within the organization. For more info, please contact: 
 
Maria Abelardo | Recruiting Director
Direct: (754)-241-9507
PlasticStaffing.com
a division of National Search Group, Inc
 
#PS123