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Plastics Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

The Davis Companies

GA · On-site

Job Title: Plastics Engineer Job Type: Full-Time Location: Richmond County, GA (Relocation ... Support engineering deliverables such as requirements definition, risk analysis, DFMEA, DVP&R, and ...

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 ...

New

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 ...

Restech Plastic Molding

Be Seen First

Plastics Engineer

Hudson, MA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Bachelor's or higher in Engineering (Plastics preferred) * Proficient use of IQMS and Solidworks / AutoCAD software * Knowledge of mold building, raw materials, equipment, and molding techniques ...

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 ...

GOJO

Plastics Engineer II (32721)

Wooster, OH

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 ...

Nova Biomedical

Plastics Process Engineer

Billerica, MA · On-site

$130K - $145K/yr

Create and execute Engineering Change Orders (ECO). * Lead the evaluation and selection of ... * BS in Plastics Engineering or equivalent curriculum is required. MS is a plus Physical ...

Nova Biomedical

Plastics Process Engineer

Billerica, MA · On-site

$130K - $145K/yr

Create and execute Engineering Change Orders (ECO). * Lead the evaluation and selection of ... * BS in Plastics Engineering or equivalent curriculum is required. MS is a plus Physical ...

Acro Blue

Engineering Plastics Lab Tech II

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$34/hr

Test Engineer - Materials / Plastics Lab Ann Arbor, MI Competitive Pay | Full-Time | Growth Opportunity Overview We are seeking a Test Engineer to join our fast-paced Materials / Plastics Engineering ...

McClarin Composites

Plastics Engineer

Hanover, PA · On-site

Bachelor of Science degree in Plastics, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or similar engineering field * Minimum of 5 years direct manufacturing experience * Solidworks and AutoCad experience a plus

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Plastics Engineering information

See salary details

$36.5K

$65.3K

$108.5K

How much do plastics engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 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 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,265 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Plastics Engineer

The Lee Company

Essex, CT • On-site

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position: Plastics Engineer
Location: Essex, CT | Full Time
Company Overview:
The Lee Company is a global leader in the design and production of miniature, precision fluid control components for the aerospace, medical/scientific instrument, oil tool, and automotive industries.
Lee Company products are recognized worldwide for superior quality, reliability, and performance. Lee's unique capabilities in miniaturization and engineering keep the company at the forefront of fluid control technology and identify Lee as a leading innovator in the field of fluid handling and control.
Founded in 1948, The Lee Company occupies over one million sq. ft. of modern manufacturing and office space at four sites in Westbrook and Essex, Connecticut, and employs over 1,000 people.
Job Description:
Plastics Project Engineers lead all aspects of plastic component lifecycle, from initial concept through design, testing, and production within an active manufacturing environment. This pivotal role involves prototyping, testing, analysis, and managing the entire product realization process. They are responsible for the design of precision plastic and elastomeric parts, injection molds, and transfer molds, ensuring exacting workmanship standards for dimensionally accurate, repeatable, and flash-free parts. Plastics Engineers engage in extensive cross-functional collaboration with management, engineering, mold makers, operators, and vendors to continuously improve part, tooling, and processes.
Qualifications:
  • B.S. degree in Plastics Engineering, or similar engineering discipline from an accredited university.
  • At least five years of experience with plastic part design, mold design, tool design, injection molding operations and manufacturing engineering.
  • A desire to learn about new developments in the plastics engineering field and an interest in following that progress through trade shows, professional texts, technical papers, etc.
  • MedicalScientific design experience preferred.
  • Proficiency with design tools such as SolidWorks, TopSolid, Moldex3D or similar.

Responsibilities:
  • Perform engineering duties and assignments that include design, detailing, sustaining, and maintaining precision plastic and elastomeric parts, injection molds, and transfer molds.
  • Enforce exacting workmanship standards for dimensionally accurate, repeatable, and flash-free parts.
  • Work with engineering, mold makers, and mold operators to continuously improve part, tooling, and processes associated with molding operations. Initiate and document mold repairs, track spare parts, and implement improvements.
  • Prepare of drawings, calculations, analysis, and specifications. Ensure accuracy of designs, dimensions, tolerances, specifications, etc.
  • Design fixtures and experiments to prove part conformance and performance.
  • Work with manufacturing to methodize production operations, tooling requirements, feasibility, and cost estimates, etc.
  • Document and maintain process specifications and work instructions associated with molding as well as participate in MRB.
  • Work with purchasing on vendor relations and specification development for purchased equipment/tools.

The Lee Company Advantages:
The Lee Company offers opportunities for career growth in a growing, well-managed company providing an attractive range of benefits including company-paid health insurance, profit sharing, tuition reimbursement, and daycare subsidy. The Lee Company is situated in southern New England in a rural, campus setting close to the Long Island Sound.
Please send resume to careers@theleeco.com
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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