1

Plastics Engineering Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

This role applies engineering principles, statistical methods, and process development expertise to ... Familiarity with plastic manufacturing processes, polymer materials, heat sealing, and packaging ...

This role applies engineering principles, statistical methods, and process development expertise to ... Familiarity with plastic manufacturing processes, polymer materials, heat sealing, and packaging ...

This role applies engineering principles, statistical methods, and process development expertise to ... Familiarity with plastic manufacturing processes, polymer materials, heat sealing, and packaging ...

This role applies engineering principles, statistical methods, and process development expertise to ... Familiarity with plastic manufacturing processes, polymer materials, heat sealing, and packaging ...

Showing results 21-40

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.
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.

Assembly & Bonding Technician - 2nd Shift

Tri-Mack Plastics

Bristol, RI โ€ข On-site

$18.25 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 hours ago


Job description

Located in Bristol, Rhode Island for over 50 years, Tri-Mack is a leading manufacturer of high-temperature thermoplastic components for the aerospace-defense, semiconductor, energy and medical industries. 

Our broad capabilities include collaborative engineering, tool making, injection molding, thermoplastic composite processing, multi-axis CNC machining, bonding and assembly, testing and quality control - all within a modern, environmentally controlled 60,000 sq. ft. facility. 

Our culture is based on values that promote respect, teamwork and accountability and we are committed to meeting customer requirements through our ISO 9001/AS9100 quality management system. 

PLEASE NOTE - Applicants are required to pass a criminal background check.  This position involves access to data that is subject to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).  Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S.

Position:  Assembly & Bonding Technician (2nd Shift)

Summary: 

The Assembly & Bonding Technician is responsible for all part assembly, bonding, testing and screening work, a role requiring manual dexterity and mechanical skills to assemble and repair parts.

Responsibilities & Accountabilities:

  • Perform all assembly, bonding, testing and screening in conformance with parts specifications.
  • Use small hand tools as required by the job.
  • Perform assemblies following specific work instructions.
  • Work in an environment with odors related to plastic epoxies and resins used in bonding.
  • Complete all paperwork thoroughly and neatly.
  • Inspect work to ensure conformance with blueprints using all measuring equipment.
  • Actively pursue opportunities to develop new skills within the department and across departmental lines.
  • Assist Production in other jobs as requested.
  • Conduct yourself in an ethical and professional manner and always follow Tri-Mack Values:  Respect, Teamwork, Integrity, Accountability and Durability
  • Adhere to all AS9100 requirements as specified in work instructions and by your supervisor.
  • All other duties assigned.

Education, Skills & Experience:

  • High School diploma or general education degree (GED).
  • Ability to understand and work from blueprints, past experience with measuring tools.
  • Familiarity with and manual dexterity related to using small hand tools as required for critical parts with tight tolerances.
  • Good written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to manage priorities as well as understand the demands of production.
  • Comfortable with technical issues, leveraging previous technical experience to solve technical problems
  • Reliable, able to get along well with others and to work independently.

Our Benefits:

We offer competitive salaries and generous benefits, including:

  • 40 hour week, Monday-Thursday, overtime available
  • $3.00 per hour 2nd Shift pay differential
  • Generous Medical, Life, Dental and Vision Insurance programs
  • Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Sick & Safe Leave
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Tuition Reimbursement

If you’re looking for an innovative, values-driven company where you can put your mechanical aptitude and expertise to work, grow your career and take on ever-bigger challenges, you may just have found the place! We know our continued success is dependent upon our employees, which is why we are always on the lookout for reliable, knowledgeable and dynamic individuals with past success in a collaborative team setting, working with clear objectives and direction.

 *Tri-Mack Plastics provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status or genetic information. Tri-Mack is a drug-free work environment. Pre-employment drug screening (excludes THC) and background checks are required.

Powered by JazzHR

PHtC4XfSQY