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Plastic Process Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Dart Container

Plastic Process Technician

Leola, PA · On-site

Plastic Process Technician - Night Shift (Blue Nights) Shift: 8:00 PM - 8:15 AM (Rotating 3-4 day ... Partner with engineering and maintenance teams to improve equipment performance and reliability ...

C & J Industries Inc

Process Engineer

Meadville, PA · On-site

C&J Industries is a full service plastic injection molding contract manufacturer and FDA certified ... We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Process Engineer to join our dynamic team in the ...

IEI Plastics

Polymner Process Engineer

Nesquehoning, PA · On-site

January 2, 2025 Back to job search Invite a friend Westchester Plastics, LLC in Nesquehoning PA, is currently seeking an intern to join their team. Position Description: The Process Engineer will be ...

The CKHobbie Group

Process Engineer

Nazareth, PA · On-site

$80/hr

... plastic extrusion, injection molding, and foam molding.This includes, but is not limited to ... for all processes. Requirements Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in a relevant engineering ...

AdvanSix

Process Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$76K - $114K/yr

... plastics, solvents, packaging, paints, coatings, adhesives, and electronics. Our reliable and ... The Process Engineer provides process technology support to operating plants. Duties and ...

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All JobsPlastic Process Engineer JobsPlastic Process Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania

Plastic Process Engineer information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$49.6K

$92.2K

$142.8K

How much do plastic process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastic process engineer in Pennsylvania is $92,239.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,700.00 and $103,200.00 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 Pennsylvania? For Plastic Process Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plastic Process Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Process Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania are:
Plastic Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Process Engineer job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,239 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

Plastic Process Technician

Dart Container

Leola, PA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Dart Container rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Plastic Process Technician - Night Shift (Blue Nights)

Shift: 8:00 PM - 8:15 AM (Rotating 3-4 day schedule, including weekends)

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled Plastic Process Technician to support and optimize our manufacturing operations. In this hands-on role, you will be responsible for setting up, troubleshooting, and improving plastic processing equipment, including thermoforming, extrusion, and/or injection molding systems.

This role is ideal for someone with a strong mechanical and troubleshooting background who thrives in a fast-paced production environment and enjoys working collaboratively to drive efficiency, quality, and continuous improvement.

What You'll Do
  • Set up, start up, and monitor plastic processing equipment (thermoforming, extrusion, and/or injection molding)
  • Troubleshoot equipment, process issues, and quality defects in real time
  • Adjust machine parameters to optimize production efficiency, product quality, and cycle times
  • Perform basic mechanical maintenance and repairs, including work with valves, pumps, and mechanical components
  • Support mold/die changes and assist with equipment changeovers
  • Identify root causes of downtime and implement corrective actions
  • Partner with engineering and maintenance teams to improve equipment performance and reliability
  • Assist in fine-tuning equipment and processes to meet production and quality standards
  • Maintain accurate documentation related to process settings, downtime, and maintenance activity
  • Follow all safety procedures and support a safe working environment
What We're Looking For Required:
  • 2+ years of experience in plastic processing (thermoforming, extrusion, or injection molding)
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
  • Experience working with production equipment and process adjustments
  • Ability to work night shift (12-hour rotating schedule)
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment
Preferred:
  • Experience performing equipment setup and changeovers
  • Familiarity with valves, pneumatics, hydraulics, and mechanical systems
  • Maintenance experience (preventive or corrective)
  • Experience identifying and resolving process-related defects
  • Previous experience coaching or supporting less experienced operators
Physical & Work Environment
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (8-12 hours)
  • Ability to lift up to 40 lbs as needed
  • Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with noise, machinery, and PPE requirements
Why Join Us?
  • Competitive pay, including shift differential for nights
  • Opportunity to work with advanced plastic processing equipment
  • Career growth into senior technician or maintenance roles
  • Collaborative, team-oriented environment focused on continuous improvement
  • Hands-on role where your impact on production is visible every day

Overview: Dart makes everyday products that give people the freedom to enjoy the food & drinks they love, wherever they are. From to-go containers and dinnerware to tamper-evident food packaging and even the red SOLO cup, Dart products have been keeping people on the go and having fun for 65 years.  We're a family-owned, family-focused company of 12,000 employees united by a shared set of values and dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. Headquartered in Mason, MI, with 30 locations in three countries, we're proud of our ability to innovate, manufacture and lead the way with each new generation of quality products.

Benefits: Dart Container full-time employees enjoy great benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with company matching contributions, paid vacation, paid holidays, short-term disability, tuition assistance, product discounts and more.

Dart Container is a drug-free workplace.  Candidates are subject to a drug test (excluding THC*/marijuana/cannabis) and background check at the time of offer.

*THC testing ONLY when such testing is required by law.
Dart Container is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all candidates for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

https://www.dartcontainer.com/eeoaa/

If you have a disability and need an accommodation to access this website or for the application process, you should call Dart at (800) 545-3278 Ext 3370 or email us at ADArequests@dart.biz. Relay calls can be made by dialing 711 or the relay number for your state.

If you experience difficulty applying online, you may call (800) 545-3278 Ext 3390 or email us at applicationassistance@dart.biz for assistance.

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