1

Plastic Process Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Support the Engineering Department and Manufacturing Department in process engineering activities ... Plastics processing knowledge * Material transfer and blending * Project management * Statistical ...

New

Support the Engineering Department and Manufacturing Department in process engineering activities ... Plastics processing knowledge * Material transfer and blending * Project management * Statistical ...

New

Support the Engineering Department and Manufacturing Department in process engineering activities ... Plastics processing knowledge * Material transfer and blending * Project management * Statistical ...

New

Candidates must be knowledgeable in all areas of plastic processing and manufacturing to maintain consistent quality output. MMI Engineered Solutions provides world-class engineering solutions for ...

Candidates must be knowledgeable in all areas of plastic processing and manufacturing to maintain consistent quality output. MMI Engineered Solutions provides world-class engineering solutions for ...

Candidates must be knowledgeable in all areas of plastic processing and manufacturing to maintain consistent quality output. MMI Engineered Solutions provides world-class engineering solutions for ...

This is not a generalist role - this position requires depth in plastics processing, surface finish ... Participate in and drive engineering change management activities * Support continuous improvement ...

This is not a generalist role - this position requires depth in plastics processing, surface finish ... drive engineering change management activities Support continuous improvement and production ...

Process Engineer SUMMARY: Tryout and approve the mechanical functions of plastic injection molding tools according to Company tool standards and multiple types of material. Recommend changes to ...

Senior Process Engineer

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$103K - $133K/yr

SENIOR PROCESS ENGINEER TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN - PLANT As a member of the Molding team, the ... Degree in related mechanical engineering or plastics technology * Desire to work in hands on ...

Senior Process Engineer

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$103K - $133K/yr

SENIOR PROCESS ENGINEER TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN - PLANT As a member of the Molding team, the ... Degree in related mechanical engineering or plastics technology * Desire to work in hands on ...

Process Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$70K - $104K/yr

We manufacture injection molding/plastic products for automotive, office furniture, polymer ... Scope of Responsibility As a Process Engineer, you'll be at the heart of our manufacturing ...

We manufacture injection molding/plastic products for automotive, office furniture, polymer ... Scope of Responsibility As a Process Engineer, you'll be at the heart of our manufacturing ...

Process Engineer

Cadillac, MI · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

... plastics, rubber, metal) and mechatronic integration. We are seeking - 1 - SKILLS PROFILE ... Command of Engineering and Quality tools. 2 - MAIN MISSIONS The Process Engineer conducts the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Plastic Process Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$43.1K

$80.2K

$124.2K

How much do plastic process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastic process engineer in Michigan is $80,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,900.00 and $89,800.00 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.
Infographic showing various Plastic Process Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,202 per year, or $38.6 per hour.
Plastic Process Technician - Nights

Plastic Process Technician - Nights

Cascade Engineering

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$24.76 - $39.78/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description
Cascade Engineering is a Family of Companies that invests in our triple bottom line philosophy - People, Planet and Profit. We have been in business for over 50 years in Grand Rapids, Michigan. We manufacture injection molding/plastic products for automotive, office furniture, polymer compounding, waste and recycling industries. We focus on driving organizational excellence through a people centered leadership culture based on the principles of 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
Are you looking for a positive and encouraging environment? Are you seeking a position where you are included, recognized and celebrated? You belong here! Are you excited for what is ahead? We are too!
Scope of Responsibility
Cascade Engineering is currently hiring for the position of Set Up/Process Technician level 3 or 4. In this role, you will be responsible for setting up, shutting down, mold changes and troubleshooting mold defects and machines. In this opportunity, you will have the ability to develop and grow your technical skills.
You will have an opportunity to work with a diverse, supportive and driven team across all the plants! With this opportunity, you will be collaborating with your team to produce high quality components while learning to build new processes and work as a team to solve complex issues while working with large-scale plastic molding presses.
Location: Buursma Plant (4950 37th St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512)
Shift: Night shift from 6pm - 6:10am (working 3 days one week, 4 days the next including every other weekend)
Target Pay: The target starting base salary for this position is $24.76 - $39.78/hour (plus $1.20 shift premium plus quarterly bonus incentive). Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Cascade Engineering considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
General Responsibilities
Day to day - Responsible for starting up and shutting down of plastic injection molding equipment. Conducting timely and accurate installations and removal of injection molds and dies. Assisting with troubleshooting of plastic injection molding presses
Troubleshooting - In this role, you will lean on your extensive knowledge of plastics and communicate any equipment issues/breakdowns to maintenance. Troubleshoot molding defects such as splay and short shots and identify continuous improvement opportunities. You will have the opportunity to work in a team environment to diagnose, troubleshoot and solve complex issues dealing with robots, hot stamp technology and other tooling issues
Support - While working collaboratively with all levels of the team you will be responsible for offering support where needed. This could include cleaning hoppers, doing moisture checks and setting up dryers. You could be called upon to help with various mold changes, crane operation and color changes
Culture Bearer
  • Understands and supports the values of the Triple Bottom Line (TBL)
  • Exhibits high moral and ethical standards and high integrity
  • Values people regardless of their background
  • Exhibits the traits of a servant leader
  • Exhibit the principles of 7 Habits and Emotional Intelligence
  • Encourages open dialogue and communication
  • Develops high trust relationships within all levels of the organization
  • Pursues Excellence

At Cascade Engineering, we welcome and celebrate diversity and inclusion. We are committed to fostering an authentic workplace where everyone belongs and thrives, and we look forward to welcoming candidates who are enthusiastic about contributing to our community. If you are passionate about this role, we encourage you to apply. We recognize that women and people of color are often underrepresented in manufacturing and want to see this change. When making hiring decisions, we believe in considering the whole person and the life experiences they bring to our teams. Our diversity drives our innovation and has been integral to our success.
Requirements
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent; or equivalent experience (4-5+ years of plastics experience)
  • Must have a valid driver's license or be able to use all 4 limbs such as arms, legs (upper and lower limbs), torso/trunk at the shoulder. Have coordination of eyes, hands and feet. Not have any known/documented convulsive disorders and corrected vision (obtain doctor's note verifying proof of the corrected vision)
  • Technical experience with plastic injection molding required, along with hands-on experience with raw materials, mold set-up, and troubleshooting skills
  • Must be well organized
  • Able to operate in a fast pace environment
  • Basic computer skills
  • Effective communicator, both written and verbal; good visual skills and reasoning ability

Preferred Education
  • Associates Degree in Plastics is preferred
  • Previous Lock Out/Tag Out experience is preferred
  • Prior Overhead Chain and Crane is preferred
  • Previous Routsis or Paulson training is preferred

Benefits
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance - Starting on Day 1
  • Life Insurance (Company Paid and Supplemental)
  • 401K with match - Starting on Day 1
  • Quarterly Bonus Program
  • Paid Time Off
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Short and Long Term Disability (Company Paid)
  • Onsite Health Clinic

Perks
  • Weekly Pay
  • Flexible Hours & Scheduling
  • Attendance Recognition Program
  • Voucher programs for Safety Shoes and Prescription Safety Glasses
  • Employee Discount Programs
  • Employee Referral & Retention Bonus Program
  • Adoption Assistance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Free Uniforms / T-shirts
  • Smoking Cessation Products and Program