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Plastics Engineering Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Product Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$85 - $110/hr

Bachelor's Degree in Plastics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related * 5+ years of experience minimum in product engineering * Experience in automotive interiors preferred * Ability to work ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Zeeland, MI · On-site

$67K - $86K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Plastics Engineering, or a related engineering discipline * 3-7+ years of engineering experience in a ...

PLASTICS SHOP FABRICATOR

Monroe, MI · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

The Plastics Fabricator will use specialized equipment to fit and weld materials such as PVC ... engineering blueprints and schematics · Ability to handle physical workload Requirements:

Manufacturing Engineer

Zeeland, MI

$67K - $86K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Plastics Engineering, or a related engineering discipline * 3-7+ years of engineering experience in a ...

This individual will also help plan, design, and direct Company's engineering trim programs. Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Responsible for product /program execution of engineering ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Zeeland, MI · On-site

$67K - $86K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Plastics Engineering, or a related engineering discipline * 3-7+ years of engineering experience in a ...

All engineering Plastics are highly processable and can be manufactured in various colors. It is used in numerous areas such as automobiles, home appliances, IT devices, etc. Products that may ...

All engineering Plastics are highly processable and can be manufactured in various colors. It is used in numerous areas such as automobiles, home appliances, IT devices, etc. Products that may ...

Showing results 41-60

Plastics Engineering information

See Michigan salary details

$31.8K

$56.9K

$94.6K

How much do plastics engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastics engineering in Michigan is $56,885.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,300.00 and $69,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 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 does a plastics engineer do?

A plastics engineer designs, develops, and tests plastic materials and products, focusing on improving manufacturing processes and product performance. They work with raw materials, mold design, and quality control, often using CAD software and testing equipment to ensure specifications are met.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plastics Engineering jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Plastics Engineering jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Plastics Engineering jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Plastics Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Plastics Engineering job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,885 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


West Pharmaceutical Services rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 120 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

At West, we're a dedicated team that is connected by a purpose to improve patient lives that has been at the center of our Company for more than a century. Our story began when Herman O. West solved the problem of supplying penicillin in mass quantities to the US Government during World War 2. Through our work to deliver thousands of life-saving and life-enhancing injectable medicines to millions of patients daily, West's indelible mark on the healthcare industry has just begun. A name started our story. How will yours help write our future?
There's no better place to join an inclusive community of professionals with opportunities for lifelong learning, growth and development. Supported by benefit programs, we empower the physical, mental, emotional and financial health of our team members and their families.
We believe in giving back to help those in need in the communities where we live and work. And are equally committed to creating a healthier environment and planet through our sustainability efforts.
Job Summary
Organize, coordinate, and implement process improvement activities that support and/or improve safety, yields, quality, cost effectiveness, and throughput of our processes. This includes using formal process improvement tools, and validation of new/modified processes.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assume full responsibility for various Process Engineering projects as assigned. Projects will focus on improvements to safety, yields, quality, cost effectiveness, and throughput. Projects may include implementation of new equipment and methods, or the improvement of existing equipment and methods.
  • Fully define projects via specifications or drawings. Follow-up on new and revised improvements to ensure proper implementation. Operate within approved time schedules and project budgets.
  • Apply formal problem solving tools, including application of Six Sigma, DMAIC, A3, DOE, and other similar continuous improvement concepts.
  • Support the development, transfer, and improvement of products and processes to support the company's global strategies.
  • Support projects and initiatives stemming from Global Process Engineering team. Provide reliable and timely communication with global colleagues.
  • Consult and cooperate with corporate/customer/supplier personnel as authorized and required. Maintain effective communication and working relationships.
  • Instruct and train West Pharmaceutical Services personnel in the use of any special equipment that may be required after project completion.
  • Maintain accurate project records, engineering records, and other controlled documentation. Review and revise procedures to ensure they reflect the most effective means and contain the most current and correct information.
  • Lead the way in supporting the plant's efforts in meeting corporate and plant goals.
  • Conforms with and abides by all regulations, policies, work procedures, instruction, and all safety rules.

Education
  • Bachelor's in Plastics Engineering, Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial Engineering or similar

Work Experience
  • 3-5+ years of professional experience in an equivalent role such as a Process Engineer
  • Injection Molding / Plastics experience

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Experience in a Automotive/Pharmaceutical manufacturing environment
  • Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (or Green Belt with solid track of lean improvements)
  • Knowledge of cGMP.
  • Ability of authoring/revising SOIs, SOPs and validation documents
  • Must have excellent written and verbal skills
  • Excellent interpersonal skills: good team player and individual contributor as well

Travel Requirements
10%: Up to 26 business days per year
Physical Requirements
  • Must maintain the ability to work well with others in a variety of situations.
  • Must be able to multi-task, work under time constraints, problem solve, and prioritize.
  • Must also be able to maintain confidentiality and resolve conflicts.
  • Ability to make independent and sound judgments.
  • Use written and oral communication skills
  • Read and interpret data, information and documents
  • Analyze and solve problems
  • Observe and interpret situations
  • Learn and apply new information or new skills
  • Operate in both office and manufacturing environments
  • Ability to work in both hot and cold environments.
  • Ability to repetitively lift 35 pounds.

West is an equal opportunity employer and we value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. If you have a special need that requires accommodation in order to apply to West, please send an email to Apply.Accommodation@westpharma.com. Where permitted by law, an offer of employment with West Pharmaceutical Services, or any of its subsidiary or affiliate companies, is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of background screening.

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