ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Plastics Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Midland-Marvel Recruiters

Plastics Engineer

Austin, TX

$140K - $160K/yr

Requirements: BS Degree in Plastics Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field is requirement. At least 7 years of Plastics Engineering and / Process ...

The Lee Company

Plastics Engineer

Essex, CT · On-site

Lee's unique capabilities in miniaturization and engineering keep the company at the forefront of ... Plastics Project Engineers lead all aspects of plastic component lifecycle, from initial concept ...

HSM

Plastics Engineer

High Point, NC · On-site

Manage engineering changes, product revisions, and configuration-controlled documentation. Product Validation and Production Launch * Lead assigned product development projects from concept and ...

US Conec, Ltd.

Plastics Engineer

Hickory, NC · On-site

Engineering Innovation. Precision Plastics. Powering AI. US Conec, Ltd. is a trusted, global company that prides itself on engineering excellence-creating innovative connectivity solutions that ...

Truck-Lite

Plastics Tooling Engineer

Erie, PA · On-site

Will serve as the technical expert for plastic part design and development on a multi-disciplinary Engineering team. Products include (but are not limited to) LED headlamps & fog lamps, LED signal ...

US Conec, Ltd.

Plastics Engineer

Hickory, NC

With over 30 years of expertise in precision engineering, injection molding, and plastics manufacturing, we are excited to invite you to join our team as a Plastics Engineer . In this role, you will ...

Prudent Holdings USA

Plastics Engineer

Lexington, KY · On-site

The Plastics Engineer - Injection Molding Process & Flow Simulation (PE) is responsible for ... The PE will collaborate closely with cross-functional internal engineering teams at Prudent ...

MAKS Plastics

Plastics Engineer

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Engineering REPORTING TO: Director of Engineering MAKS Plastics, LLC is a rotational molding and thermoforming plastic component supplier for the RV, Marine and Custom industries. Our products are ...

MAKS Plastics

Plastics Engineer

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Engineering REPORTING TO: Director of Engineering MAKS Plastics, LLC is a rotational molding and thermoforming plastic component supplier for the RV, Marine and Custom industries. Our products are ...

GOJO Industries, Inc.

Plastics Engineer II

Wooster, OH · On-site

Provides day to day engineering support to molding, blow molding, QC, automation and tooling as ... Mechanical, Packaging or Plastics Engineering. In lieu of degree, minimum ten (10) years' relevant ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPlastics Engineering Jobs

Plastics Engineering information

See salary details

$36.5K

$65.3K

$108.5K

How much do plastics engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastics engineering in the United States is $65,265.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $79,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Plastics Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectPlastics EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Plastics Engineering or related field, certifications in plastics processingBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, plastics product development labsFactories, design firms, research labs
Industry UsagePlastic product manufacturing, polymer research, injection moldingAutomotive, aerospace, machinery, general manufacturing

Plastics Engineering focuses on the design, processing, and manufacturing of plastic materials, often requiring specialized knowledge of polymers and molding techniques. Mechanical Engineering covers a broader range of mechanical systems and design principles, applicable across various industries. While both roles involve manufacturing environments, Plastics Engineering is specialized in plastics, whereas Mechanical Engineering has a wider scope in mechanical systems and machinery.

What is plastics engineering?

Plastics engineering is a branch of engineering focused on the design, development, processing, and manufacturing of plastic products and materials. Plastics engineers work with a variety of polymers to create everyday items, industrial components, and specialized products for fields such as automotive, medical, and aerospace. They are involved in selecting materials, designing molds, optimizing manufacturing processes, and ensuring product quality and sustainability. This discipline requires knowledge of chemistry, materials science, and mechanical engineering to develop innovative and durable plastic solutions.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

In plastics engineering, senior-level professionals such as lead engineers, R&D managers, or those with specialized expertise and extensive experience can earn $200,000 or more annually. Achieving this salary often requires advanced skills, certifications, and leadership roles within manufacturing or research environments.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

In the field of plastics engineering, earning $500,000 annually is uncommon and typically associated with executive-level roles, senior management, or specialized consultants with extensive experience and industry influence. Most plastics engineers earn significantly less, with top executives or those in leadership positions potentially reaching high six-figure or low seven-figure salaries depending on the company and location.

What do plastic engineers do?

Plastic engineers design, develop, and test plastic materials and products, focusing on improving performance, durability, and manufacturability. They work with processes like injection molding and extrusion, often using CAD software and quality control tools to ensure product standards are met.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Plastics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plastics Engineer, you need a strong background in materials science, polymer chemistry, and engineering principles, usually supported by a bachelor's degree in plastics engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, polymer processing equipment, and industry-specific certifications like Six Sigma or SPE certification is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help distinguish top professionals in this role. These competencies are crucial for designing innovative plastic products, ensuring manufacturing efficiency, and meeting quality standards in a competitive industry.

What can you do with a plastics engineering degree?

A plastics engineering degree prepares individuals for careers designing, developing, and testing plastic materials and products. Common roles include process engineer, product development engineer, quality control specialist, and manufacturing manager, often requiring knowledge of polymer science, manufacturing processes, and industry standards. Graduates may work in industries such as automotive, packaging, medical devices, and consumer goods, utilizing tools like CAD software and gaining certifications like Six Sigma or ISO standards.

What are some common challenges faced by plastics engineers in product development?

Plastics engineers often encounter challenges related to material selection, manufacturability, and meeting performance specifications. Balancing cost, durability, and environmental impact while ensuring the final product meets design requirements can be complex. Additionally, engineers frequently collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to address issues like mold design, processing conditions, and product testing. Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills are essential, as unexpected issues may arise during prototype development or mass production.
More about Plastics Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Plastics Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Plastics Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plastics Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Plastics Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Plastics Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Plastics Engineering jobs include:
Plastics Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastics Engineering job openings in the United States 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 $65,265 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Plastics Engineer

Midland-Marvel Recruiters

Austin, TX

$140K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Multi-billion company has an excellent opportunity available for a Sr. Plastics Engineer. Responsibilities: Process improvement, troubleshooting, OEE, material utilization, root cause analysis, Lean Six Sigma, Continuous Improvement, machine trials, and training. Requirements: BS Degree in Plastics Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field is requirement. At least 7 years of Plastics Engineering and / Process Engineering is a must. Experience in plastics extrusion, stretch film, blown film, cast film, or Bopp / Opp film is a must. Experience in polyethylene, polypropylene, HDPE, LLDPE, LDPE, thermoplastics or polyolefins would be a plus.