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Plastics Engineering Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Teknor Apex

Technical Lead, Raw Materials

Pawtucket, RI · On-site

$100 - $120/hr

Bachelor's degree in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Polymer/Plastics Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Teknor Apex is an equal ...

Teknor Apex

Raw Materials Engineer

Pawtucket, RI · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Plastics Engineering, or related field * Equivalent experience (4-6 years) in a related technical role will be ...

Guill Tool & Engineering

Saw Operator

West Warwick, RI · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Guill Tool & Engineering is recognized as the extrusion technology leader in the design and manufacture of plastic extrusion tooling worldwide. Guill maintains the most technically capable workforce ...

Nordsonhcm

Senior Mechanical Engineer

East Providence, RI

$105K - $139K/yr

In this role, you will lead the mechanical design and industrialization of plastic consumables, from concept through production launch. You will apply strong engineering fundamentals, structured ...

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All JobsPlastics Engineering JobsPlastics Engineering Jobs in Rhode Island

Plastics Engineering information

See Rhode Island salary details

$35.7K

$63.9K

$106.3K

How much do plastics engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastics engineering in Rhode Island is $63,915.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $77,900.00 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.
Plastics Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastics Engineering job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,915 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

Process Engineer for Plastic Injection Molding

Mars Plastics

Providence, RI • On-site

$45K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off

Company: Mars Plastics Injection Molding
Job Type: Full-Time
About Us:
Mars Plastics is a full-service injection molding facility specializing in high-quality plastic components and custom solutions for a variety of industries. We also manufacture our own line of consumer storage products under the BinCraft brand. With a focus on innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, we're seeking a skilled Process Engineer to join our growing team.
Job Summary:
We are looking for a results-driven Plastic Injection Molding Process Engineer to lead process development, optimization, and troubleshooting within our molding operations. This role is critical in ensuring part quality, improving cycle times, and reducing scrap to support efficient and consistent production.
Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop, document, and optimize injection molding processes for new and existing products
  • Troubleshoot molding issues, including part defects and process deviations
  • Collaborate with tooling, maintenance, quality, and production teams to improve overall efficiency
  • Perform mold trials and validations, including process capability studies
  • Establish and maintain process parameters and setup sheets
  • Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in molding operations
  • Assist with training of machine operators and technicians on best practices
  • Support preventive maintenance programs for injection molds and machines
Qualifications:

  • Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Plastics Technology, or related field preferred
  • 3+ years of hands-on experience with plastic injection molding process engineering
  • Strong knowledge of injection molding machinery, tooling, and materials
  • Proficiency in troubleshooting molding defects and process control
  • Familiarity with scientific molding principles is a plus
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills
Benefits:

  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Opportunities for growth and advancement