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Plastic Process Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Product Design Plastics Engineer

Elkhart, IN

$123K - $148K/yr

... plastic component supplier for the RV, Marine and Custom industries. Our products are diversified ... Troubleshoot and resolve design-related issues during the manufacturing process * Stay updated with ...

... plastic component supplier for the RV, Marine and Custom industries. Our products are diversified ... manufacturing processes, including mold development.RESPONSIBILITIES:Design and develop ...

Quality Engineer

South Bend, IN · On-site

$70K - $91K/yr

We are seeking a dedicated Quality Engineer to join our team in South Bend, IN. As a key player ... Ensure the highest quality standards in plastic molding manufacturing processes. * Collaborate with ...

New

Quality Engineer

South Bend, IN · On-site

$70K - $91K/yr

We are seeking a dedicated Quality Engineer to join our team in South Bend, IN. As a key player ... Ensure the highest quality standards in plastic molding manufacturing processes. * Collaborate with ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Ligonier, IN

$65K - $84K/yr

Read and develop engineering drawings as well as electrical schematics to diagnose problems and ... Familiarity with plastics and plastics processing a plus. Ability to learn plastics blow molding ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Madison, IN · On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

Senior Mechanical Engineer Reports to: Senior Engineering Manager Leadership Scope: Individual ... processes relevant to automotive lighting, such as injection molding, plastic part assembly ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Madison, IN · On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

Senior Mechanical Engineer Reports to: Senior Engineering Manager Leadership Scope: Individual ... processes relevant to automotive lighting, such as injection molding, plastic part assembly ...

If you're passionate about design leadership, CAD engineering, manufacturing processes, and ... experience in the plastics industry Experience leading projects and developing team members ...

If you're passionate about design leadership, CAD engineering, manufacturing processes, and ... Experience with thermoforming, plastics manufacturing, tooling design, or packaging development ...

Design Engineer Lead

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

If you're passionate about design leadership, CAD engineering, manufacturing processes, and ... Experience with thermoforming, plastics manufacturing, tooling design, or packaging development ...

Showing results 41-60

Plastic Process Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$47.1K

$87.6K

$135.6K

How much do plastic process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastic process engineer in Indiana is $87,561.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,900.00 and $98,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

Infographic showing various Plastic Process Engineer job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,561 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

Product Design Plastics Engineer

MAKS Plastics

Elkhart, IN

$123K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

MAKS Plastics, LLC is a rotational molding and thermoforming plastic component supplier for the RV, Marine and Custom industries. Our products are diversified to offer our employees stability and growth. At MAKS, we thrive on a People First, Customer focused Culture that works hard, plays hard and is Family Focused.

SUMMARY:

We are seeking a skilled Product Design Engineer with expertise in thermoforming and SolidWorks to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing thermoforming processes and equipment. This role requires a strong understanding of mechanical design principles, material properties, and manufacturing processes, including mold development.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Design and develop thermoforming molds, tools, and equipment using SolidWorks
  • Create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings for manufacturing
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Mold Shop, to ensure design feasibility and manufacturability
  • Conduct simulations and analyses to validate designs and optimize performance
  • Troubleshoot and resolve design-related issues during the manufacturing process
  • Stay updated with industry trends and advancements in thermoforming technology
  • Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations
  • Meet with current and potential customers
  • Develop costing for new and existing products
  • Create a safe work environment
  • All other duties as requested

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
  • Two years of thermoforming experience or other plastics preferred
  • Proven experience in mechanical design, specifically in thermoforming
  • Proficiency in SolidWorks for 3D modeling and drafting
  • Strong understanding of material properties and manufacturing processes
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Experience with finite element analysis (FEA)
  • Knowledge of thermoplastic materials and their behavior under different conditions
  • Experience with project management and the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
  • Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements related to thermoforming
  • Proficiency in other CAD software and simulation tools
  • Understanding of lean manufacturing principles and practices
  • Previous experience in a manufacturing environment
  • Ability to conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions

Strong organizational and time management skills

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Able to work in a hot humid environment for extended periods of time as well as around loud noises are required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to work in an office environment.

COMPANY CULTURE:

At MAKS Plastics, we believe that our people are our greatest asset. We foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment where every team member is valued and encouraged to contribute their unique skills and perspectives. Our culture is built on the principles of innovation, continuous improvement, and mutual respect. We support professional growth and development through ongoing training and career advancement opportunities.

BENEFITS:

  • Competitive salary and benefits package
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development
  • Collaborative and innovative work environment
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plan