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Plastic Process Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Applied Medical

Process Engineer

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

$71K/yr

Exposure to plastics manufacturing, component-level production, or contract manufacturing ... Process Engineer role offers an exciting opportunity to make scalable impact in medical ...

Pexco

Process Engineer - Plastic Extrusion

Athol, MA · On-site

Design tooling and develop processes for mono and co-extrusion plastic profiles, tubes and secondary fabrication individually or with other Process Engineers. * Lead new tooling development process ...

Novolex

Process Engineer

Connersville, IN

The Process Engineer will leverage data, process knowledge, and continuous improvement ... S. degree in Engineering - preferably with concentration in plastics/material science, or, in the ...

Novolex

Process Engineer

Connersville, IN

The Process Engineer will leverage data, process knowledge, and continuous improvement ... S. degree in Engineering - preferably with concentration in plastics/material science, or, in the ...

Novolex

Process Engineer

Connersville, IN · On-site

The Process Engineer will leverage data, process knowledge, and continuous improvement ... S. degree in Engineering - preferably with concentration in plastics/material science, or, in the ...

Novolex

Process Engineer

Connersville, IN · On-site

The Process Engineer will leverage data, process knowledge, and continuous improvement ... S. degree in Engineering - preferably with concentration in plastics/material science, or, in the ...

Uniform Color

Process Engineer

Holland, MI · On-site

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

Uniform Color

Process Engineer

Holland, MI · On-site

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

Uniform Color

Process Engineer

Holland, MI · On-site

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

MMI Engineered Solutions

Process Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

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 ...

MMI Engineered Solutions

Process Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

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 ...

MMI Engineered Solutions

Process Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

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 ...

EVCO Plastics

Plant Process Engineer

Calhoun, GA · On-site

Join EVCO Plastics as a Plant Process Engineer in our Calhoun facility and immerse yourself in a dynamic environment where innovation thrives. As part of our forward-thinking team, you will have the ...

EVCO Plastics

Plant Process Engineer

Calhoun, GA · On-site

Join EVCO Plastics as a Plant Process Engineer in our Calhoun facility and immerse yourself in a dynamic environment where innovation thrives. As part of our forward-thinking team, you will have the ...

EVCO Plastics

Plant Process Engineer

Calhoun, GA

Join EVCO Plastics as a Plant Process Engineer in our Calhoun facility and immerse yourself in a dynamic environment where innovation thrives. As part of our forward-thinking team, you will have the ...

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All JobsPlastic Process Engineer Jobs

Plastic Process Engineer information

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$49.5K

$92K

$142.5K

How much do plastic process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastic process engineer in the United States is $92,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $103,000.00 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.
More about Plastic Process Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Plastic Process Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Plastic Process Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Plastic Process Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Plastic Process Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Plastic Process Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Process Engineer jobs are:
Plastic Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Process Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,018 per year, or $44.2 per hour.
Process Engineer

Process Engineer

Applied Medical

Lake Forest, CA • On-site

$71K/yr

Full-time

Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Applied Medical rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Applied Medical is a new-generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field. Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute to a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.
Position Description
As a Process Engineer at Applied Medical, you'll lead cross-functional improvement initiatives that drive consistency, efficiency, and scalability across a wide range of manufacturing systems. From component assembly to process validations and documentation, this role combines hands-on process ownership with strategic collaboration. You'll bridge the gap between design and production, ensuring our processes are compliant, optimized, and ready to scale.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Cross-Process Improvement: Analyze, document, and improve existing workflows for component-level manufacturing, including assembly, bonding, testing, and sub-processes beyond plastics.
  • Validation & Compliance: Lead and support equipment and process validations (IQ/OQ/PQ), working with quality and documentation teams to ensure regulatory alignment.
  • Tooling & Fixture Coordination: Collaborate with design and tooling engineers to evaluate or improve manufacturing fixtures and workflows.
  • Documentation Mastery: Own and maintain process documentation including SOPs, work instructions, validation protocols, and technical reports.
  • Project Ownership: Manage validation timelines, trials, and change implementation across multiple teams, including operations, tooling, and quality.
  • Technician Support: Train floor technicians on updated processes, documentation, or new procedures as workflows evolve.

Position Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Chemical, Bioengineering, or a related field
  • More than one year of industry experience in manufacturing, injection molding, or process engineering
  • Exposure to plastics manufacturing, component-level production, or contract manufacturing environments
  • Interest in process planning, optimization, and cross-team coordination
  • Proficiency with CAD software for basic design collaboration and documentation
  • Ability to communicate across departments and work in technician-facing environments
  • Strong analytical and documentation skills for recipe development, SOPs, and technical reporting
  • Project coordination mindset with a focus on execution and follow-through

Preferred
  • Hands-on experience with injection molding systems or plastics process development
  • Familiarity with validation protocols (IQ/OQ/PQ) and regulated manufacturing environments
  • CAD design ability beyond basics with SolidWorks, CATIA, or equivalent
  • Minitab or Excel-based data analysis for performance metrics or capability studies
  • Experience collaborating with cross-functional engineering and quality teams
  • Interest in developing scalable solutions for scrap reduction, cycle time efficiency, and process sustainability
  • Comfort with root-cause analysis, data collection, and continuous improvement techniques

If you're passionate about bringing order to complex workflows, documenting technical change, and working cross-functionally to refine how products are made, the Process Engineer role offers an exciting opportunity to make scalable impact in medical manufacturing.
Benefits
  • Competitive compensation range: $71,000 - $80,000 / year (California).
  • Comprehensive benefits package.
  • Training and mentorship opportunities.
  • On-campus wellness activities.
  • Education reimbursement program.
  • 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.
  • Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule.

Please note that the compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and bonus and incentive compensation plans may apply.
Our total reward package reflects our commitment to employee growth and well-being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.
All compensation and benefits are subject to plan documents and written agreements.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Applied Medical is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.

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