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Plastics Engineering Technology Jobs in Michigan

Manufacturing Plastics Process Engineer

Evart, MI · On-site

$65K - $87K/yr

Certificate or associate degree in Plastics Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience). * Minimum 3-5 years of hands-on experience with injection ...

Founded in 1987 by three young plastic-engineering entrepreneurs, Team 1 Plastics has grown into a highly automated, technology-driven organization known for its commitment to innovation, reliability ...

Founded in 1987 by three young plastic-engineering entrepreneurs, Team 1 Plastics has grown into a highly automated, technology-driven organization known for its commitment to innovation, reliability ...

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Plastics Engineering Technology information

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

In the field of plastics engineering technology, senior professionals with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles can reach or exceed a $200,000 annual salary. High-level engineers working in specialized industries, management, or with advanced certifications may achieve this income level, especially in large companies or high-cost-of-living areas.

What is the difference between Plastics Engineering Technology vs Mechanical Engineering Technician?

AspectPlastics Engineering TechnologyMechanical Engineering Technician
CredentialsAssociate degree in Plastics Engineering TechnologyAssociate degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology
Work EnvironmentPlastic manufacturing plants, labs, R&DManufacturing, maintenance, and testing facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in plastics and polymer industriesBroader manufacturing sectors

Plastics Engineering Technology focuses on the development, processing, and testing of plastics and polymers, while Mechanical Engineering Technicians work across various manufacturing sectors with a broader focus on mechanical systems. Both roles require technical degrees and involve hands-on work, but Plastics Engineering Technology specialists are more specialized in plastics-related processes.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, often with advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership roles. Salaries at this level typically involve senior positions, extensive expertise, and sometimes stock options or bonuses.

What can you do with a plastics engineering degree?

A plastics engineering technology degree prepares individuals for roles such as plastics technician, process engineer, quality control specialist, or product development technician. Graduates work in manufacturing environments, using skills in materials, processing techniques, and industry standards to improve plastic products and production efficiency.

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

To thrive as a Plastics Engineering Technologist, you need a solid background in polymer science, materials engineering, and manufacturing processes, typically supported by a degree in plastics engineering technology or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, injection molding machines, and quality control systems is commonly required, along with certifications like Six Sigma or plastics-specific credentials. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are key soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills and qualities are vital to ensuring efficient production, innovation in materials and processes, and maintaining high-quality standards in the plastics industry.

What is Plastics Engineering Technology?

Plastics Engineering Technology is a specialized field focused on the design, development, processing, and manufacturing of plastic materials and products. Professionals in this area work with polymers to create everything from packaging and automotive parts to medical devices and consumer goods. The discipline combines principles of engineering, chemistry, and manufacturing to optimize the performance and sustainability of plastic products. Careers in plastics engineering technology can involve research and development, quality control, production management, and technical sales. This field plays a vital role in many industries due to the versatility and widespread use of plastics.

What are some common challenges faced by Plastics Engineering Technologists in a manufacturing environment?

Plastics Engineering Technologists often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting processing issues, ensuring consistent product quality, and adapting to new materials or technologies. They must work closely with production teams to optimize mold designs and manufacturing parameters while minimizing waste and downtime. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are crucial, as technologists frequently collaborate with engineers, quality control, and maintenance staff to address technical concerns. Staying up-to-date with advancements in plastics materials and processing methods is also important for ongoing success and career growth.
Infographic showing various Plastics Engineering Technology job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Adjunct Instructor - Plastics

Adjunct Instructor - Plastics

Ferris State University

Big Rapids, MI • On-site

Temporary

Medical, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Ferris State University rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

566th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Adjunct Instructor - Plastics
Job no: 497916
Work type: Faculty - Temporary & Continuing
Location: Big Rapids, MI 49307
Categories: Faculty
Position Title: Adjunct Instructor - Plastics
Location: Big Rapids (Main Campus)
Department:
38440 - Plastics/Rubber
Advertised Salary: Minimum of $1,353 per credit hour, if an advanced degree is held in the primary academic discipline, the minimum rate increases to $1,458 per credit hour; Salary commensurate with qualifications pursuant to the FSU and FNTFO/AFT Agreement.
Benefits:
Comprehensive benefits package (health care, vacation, etc.). Please see the following link for a list of benefits offered with this position.
Adjunct Faculty
FLSA: Exempt
Temporary/Continuing: Temporary
Part-Time/Full-Time: Part-Time
Union Group: Ferris Nontenure-Track Faculty Organization (FNTFO) (AFT)
Term of Position: As Needed
At Will/Just Cause: Just Cause
Summary of Position: The College of Engineering Technology at Ferris State University is seeking a pool of qualified applicants to teach one or more courses in the following degree programs: Plastics & Polymer Engineering Technology AAS and Plastics Engineering Technology BS. Courses assigned may be lectures or labs and may be face-to-face, blended, or online. A focus on student success, safety, and the use of current technology is expected. Regular office hours are also expected.
This is a pooled position. One or more applicants may be hired as needed to teach classes on a semester-by-semester basis.
Courses are to be taught in person on one of Ferris State University's Campuses. The candidate(s) selected for the position must reside in Michigan by the first day of employment and will perform duties at a Ferris site.
The anticipated start date for this position is August 2026 at the earliest, and January 2027 at the latest.
The selected candidate for this position must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire without employer assistance or sponsorship now or in the future. The university will not assist with any F-1 EADs, OPT, H-1 B, etc.
Position Type: Faculty - Temporary & Continuing
Required Education: The standard for teaching college credit courses at the associate degree level (1XX, 2XX) shall be a bachelor's (or higher) degree in the field or a closely related area.
The standard to teach college credit courses at the baccalaureate level (3XX, 4XX) shall be the master's degree in a field or a closely related area, or a master's degree and 18 graduate hours in the field.
The standard to teach college credit courses at the graduate level shall be a terminal degree in the field or a closely related area, or a practice terminal qualification as defined by the college faculty qualification guideline.
Required Work Experience: The following combinations of education and experience shall be considered qualifying tested experience to teach at the associate's level (lxx, 2xx). The experience considered shall comply with the quality and nature of the tested experience defined above.
• a bachelor's degree or higher out of the field, an associate's degree in the field, and 5 years of relevant industry experience.
• a bachelor's degree out of field and 7 years of relevant industry experience.
• an associate's degree in the field and 7 years of relevant industry experience.
The following combinations of education and experience shall be considered qualifying tested experience for teaching at the baccalaureate level (3xx,4xx). The experience considered shall comply with the quality and nature of the tested experience defined above.
• a master's or higher-level degree out of field with at least one bachelor's or associate's degree in the field and 5 years of relevant industry experience directly related to the course taught.
• a bachelor's degree in the field and 7 years of relevant industry experience directly related to the course taught; or an associate's degree in the field and any baccalaureate degree and 7 years of relevant industry experience.
Required Licenses and Certifications:
Physical Demands:
  • Office Environment
  • Bending
  • Carrying
  • Moving
  • Reaching
  • Sitting
  • Twisting
  • Balancing
  • Lifting
  • Pulling/Pushing
  • Standing

Additional Education/Experiences to be Considered: Previous Career and Technical Education teaching experience.
Previous college teaching experience.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities: Meet established course outcomes.
Plan, deliver, and grade all course content and student work for assigned courses.
Conduct classes, labs, or other assignments as directed and in a professional manner.
Close consultation with program faculty, as well as training via university-provided programs (where appropriate).
Faculty members also have professional responsibilities, which may include, but are not limited to, regularly scheduled office hours (at times convenient for students) and participation in traditional academic functions (e.g., reporting initial student participation data and submitting final grades on time). Faculty may be required to teach off-campus or online.
Maintain at least 1 hour per week per course section for office hours to meet with students outside of class or lecture, at a time convenient to students.
Carries out responsibilities in accordance with university policies and applicable laws.
Cultivates an environment of belonging that values, respects, supports, and celebrates individual similarities and differences, allowing students, faculty, and staff to thrive authentically.
Support, promote, and develop university student enrollment and retention initiatives.
Any other duties assigned within the position classification area.
Marginal Duties/Responsibilities: Attendance at organizational meetings of the program, school, or college is highly encouraged.
Skills and Abilities: Demonstrated successful experience working directly with people from diverse backgrounds, including cultural, educational, socioeconomic, and life experiences.
Required Documents:
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  • Unofficial Transcript 1

Optional Documents:
Special Instructions to Applicants: Unofficial Transcript 1 (REQUIRED): Applicants must attach a copy of an unofficial transcript of the appropriate degree per the required education and/or required work experience sections. Transcript must include: Institution name, applicant name, date degree attained, and degree awarded. Finalists will be required to submit an official transcript.
Initial Application Review Date:
July 27, 2026
Open Until Position is Filled?: No
Posting Close Date:
February 10, 2027
EEO Statement: Ferris State University, an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, is committed to enhancing equity, inclusion, and diversity within its community. Ferris offers employment opportunities to qualified candidates seeking careers in a student-focused environment that values opportunity, collaboration, diversity, and educational excellence. Learn more about the Ferris Mission and community at ferris.edu. The University actively seeks applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and other underrepresented groups. For more information on the University's Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit: Ferris Non-Discrimination Statement.
Click here to learn more about working at FSU and KCAD.
Advertised: 10 Jul 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 10 Feb 2027 Eastern Standard Time
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