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Plastic Product Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Samtec

Product Development Engineer

New Albany, IN · On-site

Works hands on to identify problems during product development and/or when quality concerns arise ... Plastic injection molding, and progressive die stamping experience is desired. * 3D software ...

Samtec

Product Development Engineer

New Albany, IN · On-site

Works hands on to identify problems during product development and/or when quality concerns arise ... Plastic injection molding, and progressive die stamping experience is desired. * 3D software ...

CRH

Product Development Engineer

Bulls Gap, TN · On-site

... plastic infrastructure products. Our portfolio of brands includes Oldcastle APG, Oldcastle ... Job Summary The Product Development Engineer will create and develop product designs that fulfill ...

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All JobsPlastic Product Development Jobs

Plastic Product Development information

See salary details

$42.5K

$127K

$144.5K

How much do plastic product development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $126,987 per year, or $61.1 per hour.
Product Development Engineer

Product Development Engineer

MRINetwork Jobs

Little Rock, AR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Title: Product Development Engineer

Location: Little Rock Metro Area, AR (On-site)

Position Summary

Our client, an established American manufacturer serving the construction and industrial markets, is seeking a Product Development Engineer. The Product Development Engineer serves as a critical technical interface between the company's commercial, operational, and quality teams. This role leads the design, development, and qualification of new and existing product lines, bringing new products to market and optimizing current offerings.

The position is responsible for developing machinery and tooling requirements, validating product designs in production, and ensuring product lines meet specifications and pass audits and testing. The role guides projects from concept through production with attention to creativity, problem-solving, speed, and on-time, on-budget delivery.

Key Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with management and sales teams to implement new projects and optimize current products through design, development, and quality assurance
  • Develop machinery and tooling requirements for new and existing products
  • Validate that all product design conditions are met in production output
  • Ensure the quality of new and existing product lines and verify that products align with specifications to pass audits and testing
  • Interpret customer requirements and specifications to develop manufacturing concepts and value-added solutions
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously, driving each to completion on time and within budget
  • Partner with domestic and international customers, suppliers, and vendors to align on project scope, timing, and cost
  • Utilize 3D modeling tools to support product design, visualization, and manufacturability reviews
  • Apply a high level of creativity and strong problem-solving skills as a self-starter across complex projects and processes

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Metallurgical Engineering
  • Proficiency in 3D modeling (CAD, SolidWorks, or CATIA)
  • Experience with metal and plastic component products in construction or industrial applications
  • Stamping / metal forming and CNC experience
  • Demonstrated management of large projects and complex processes
  • Proven ability to partner with domestic and international customers, suppliers, and vendors
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and project coordination skills

Preferred Skills

  • Ability to define test plans, write test procedures, and lead development and qualification testing
  • Experience guiding products from concept through production in a manufacturing environment
  • Familiarity with quality audit and testing requirements in a regulated or specification-driven manufacturing environment

Benefits:

  • Competitive base salary
  • 401(k) match program
  • Dental, health, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off

Location: On-site — Little Rock Metro Area, AR. Periodic travel, less than 10%.

If you are interested in this position, please apply here or send your resume to matthew@mrrecruiter.com.

Equal Opportunity Employer Disclaimer

This organization is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Employment decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

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