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Plastic Product Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lancesoft

Product Development Technician

Mentor, OH · On-site

$28/hr

Product Development Technician Location : Mentor, OH 44060 Duration : 12+ Months(possibility ... Plastics Compounding or Coatings Industry;or Associate's Degree (A.A.) in Chemistry related or ...

DISHER

Product Development Engineer

Zeeland, MI · On-site

DISHER is currently seeking a Product Development Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will ... Strong understanding of engineering materials (plastics, metals, composites) and manufacturing ...

AFL

Product Development Designer

Dallas, TX · On-site

Product Development Designer AFL manufactures industry-leading fiber optic cable, connectivity and ... Substantial experience designing molded plastic parts. * Experience working within an ISO-9001 ...

DISHER

Product Development Engineer

Zeeland, MI · On-site

DISHER is currently seeking a Product Development Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will ... Strong understanding of engineering materials (plastics, metals, composites) and manufacturing ...

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Plastic Product Development information

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$42.5K

$127K

$144.5K

How much do plastic product development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastic product development in the United States is $126,987.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,500.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Plastic Product Development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Plastic Product Development, you need a solid background in materials science, mechanical engineering, and product design, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with CAD software, prototyping tools, and manufacturing processes like injection molding is essential, along with knowledge of industry standards and quality systems. Strong problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration skills help drive innovation and facilitate teamwork across departments. These skills ensure that products are designed efficiently, meet quality standards, and successfully transition from concept to market.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Plastic Product Development, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Plastic Product Development often encounter challenges such as balancing material properties with cost-effectiveness, ensuring manufacturability of designs, and meeting strict regulatory standards. These challenges can be addressed by collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, including engineers, designers, and quality control specialists, to optimize both the design and production process. Continuous learning about new materials and manufacturing technologies, as well as proactive communication with suppliers and manufacturers, also helps in overcoming these obstacles and delivering successful products.

What is the difference between Plastic Product Development vs Plastic Manufacturing Technician?

AspectPlastic Product DevelopmentPlastic Manufacturing Technician
Primary FocusDesigning and developing new plastic products and prototypesOperating machinery and ensuring production of plastic parts
Skills & CertificationsDesign software, material knowledge, prototyping skillsMachine operation, quality control, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D facilities, officesManufacturing plants, production lines
Industry UsageProduct design firms, R&D departmentsManufacturing companies, production facilities

Plastic Product Development involves creating new plastic products, focusing on design, prototyping, and material selection. In contrast, Plastic Manufacturing Technicians operate machinery to produce plastic parts, ensuring quality and efficiency on the production line. Both roles are essential in the plastic industry but differ in their focus, skills, and work environment.

What is plastic product development?

Plastic product development is the process of designing, engineering, prototyping, and manufacturing products made primarily from plastic materials. This process involves material selection, creating 3D models and prototypes, testing for durability and functionality, and refining designs for mass production. Professionals in this field work closely with engineers, designers, and manufacturers to ensure that the final product meets specifications, regulatory standards, and customer needs.
More about Plastic Product Development jobs
What job categories do people searching Plastic Product Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Product Development jobs are:
Plastic Product Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Product Development job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,987 per year, or $61.1 per hour.
Product Development Engineer

Product Development Engineer

Mainstream Engineering

Rockledge, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking a Product Development Engineer with creativity and technical proficiency to drive innovation from ideation to production. You will take ownership of new product designs, lead redesigns for existing portfolios, and optimize manufacturability, usability, and appeal for a diverse range of products-from high-precision military systems to fast-paced commercial items. If you have a passion for invention and improvement and a knack for solving complex engineering challenges, we want you on our team.

Preference will be given to candidates with experience in the following areas:

  • New product design, development, and launch - Required
  • Product Development Gate Process
  • Design for Manufacturing (DFM) - Required
  • Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and drawing creation - Required
  • General knowledge of various fabrication/manufacturing processes such as: CNC machining, sheet metal cutting/forming, plastic molding, casting, tube assembly fabrication, etc...
  • Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T - ASME Y14.5)

Specific responsibilities

  • Ideate and conceptualize new products or product lines that align with core business
  • Functional and aesthetic design and development of new products
  • Engineering analysis of components and assemblies
  • Testing, qualification, and certification of new product designs
  • Determine critical-to-function features and determine best methods to ensure quality and reliability while maintaining ease of manufacturing/assembly
  • Determine parts, equipment, and tools needed to achieve manufacturing goals according to product specifications
  • DFM: Redesign existing products for manufacturability and assist R&D in new designs before reaching production.
  • Process Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) for new release and existing product revisions

Position Requirements

  • B.S. in Mechanical Engineering with 3.3 minimum GPA
  • 5 years of experience minimum preferred
  • US Citizenship required due to strict ITAR regulations

Mainstream Engineering Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro