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Plastics Engineering Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Milwaukee Tool

Senior Process Engineer

Mukwonago, WI · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

Education and Experience Requirements * BS in Plastics Engineering Technology or equivalent * 5+ years of hands-on thermoplastics processing experience. * RJG Master Molder I/II strongly preferred.

Milwaukee Tool

Senior Process Engineer

Mukwonago, WI · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

Education and Experience Requirements * BS in Plastics Engineering Technology or equivalent * 5+ years of hands-on thermoplastics processing experience. * RJG Master Molder I/II strongly preferred.

EVCO Plastics

Project Engineer

De Forest, WI · On-site

EVCO Plastics: Who We Are We are a leading plastics manufacturing company with an emphasis on strategic engineering and innovation. We use the latest processes and software to elevate the way we ...

EVCO Plastics

Tooling Project Engineer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

EVCO Plastics: What drives us We are a leading plastics manufacturing company with an emphasis on strategic engineering and innovation. We use the latest processes and software to elevate the way we ...

EVCO Plastics

Tooling Project Engineer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

EVCO Plastics: What drives us We are a leading plastics manufacturing company with an emphasis on strategic engineering and innovation. We use the latest processes and software to elevate the way we ...

EVCO Plastics

Project Engineer

De Forest, WI · On-site

EVCO Plastics: Who We Are We are a leading plastics manufacturing company with an emphasis on strategic engineering and innovation. We use the latest processes and software to elevate the way we ...

EVCO Plastics

Project Engineer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

An Introduction We are a leading plastics manufacturing company with an emphasis on strategic engineering and innovation. We use the latest processes and software to elevate the way we manufacture ...

EVCO Plastics

Tooling Project Engineer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

EVCO Plastics: What drives us We are a leading plastics manufacturing company with an emphasis on strategic engineering and innovation. We use the latest processes and software to elevate the way we ...

EVCO Plastics

Project Engineer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

An Introduction We are a leading plastics manufacturing company with an emphasis on strategic engineering and innovation. We use the latest processes and software to elevate the way we manufacture ...

EVCO Plastics

Project Engineer

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

An Introduction We are a leading plastics manufacturing company with an emphasis on strategic engineering and innovation. We use the latest processes and software to elevate the way we manufacture ...

Menasha Corporation

Manager, Maintenance

De Forest, WI · On-site

Level Required Level Desired High school diploma or equivalent Bachelor's Degree - Technical Management or Plastics Engineering Master's Degree Experience to be considered in lieu of education Work ...

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All JobsPlastics Engineering JobsPlastics Engineering Jobs in Wisconsin

Plastics Engineering information

See Wisconsin salary details

$36.8K

$65.9K

$109.5K

How much do plastics engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastics engineering in Wisconsin is $65,876.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $80,200.00 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.
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Plastics Engineering jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Plastics Engineering job openings:
Plastics Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastics Engineering job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,876 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Senior Process Engineer

Milwaukee Tool

Mukwonago, WI • On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

WE CREATE EMPOWERED LEADERS!
At Milwaukee Tool, we believe our people and our culture are the driving forces behind our success.

As a Senior Process Engineer, you will serve as the technical specialist for plastic injection molding - leading process development, optimization, and long-term sustainment. You will drive manufacturing excellence through data-driven decision-making, advanced process control, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop, optimize, and sustain injection molding processes using scientific molding principles to achieve quality, delivery, and cost targets.

  • Define and validate robust process windows, control strategies, and safeguards using DOE, Cp/Cpk, and statistical methods.

  • Support tooling lifecycle activities, including design reviews, build validations (T0/T1/Tn), and continuous process/tooling improvements.

  • Drive root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions for molding-related defects, leveraging data to eliminate systemic issues.

  • Partner cross-functionally with design, tooling, quality, and operations to ensure manufacturability and performance targets are met.

  • Identify trends through process and quality data to drive continuous improvement and defect reduction initiatives.

  • Create and maintain standardized process documentation (SOPs, control plans) to ensure repeatability and scalability.

  • Provide technical leadership, training, and support to manufacturing teams to strengthen process capability and execution.

Education and Experience Requirements

  • BS in Plastics Engineering Technology or equivalent

  • 5+ years of hands-on thermoplastics processing experience.

  • RJG Master Molder I/II strongly preferred.

  • Demonstrated expertise in scientific molding, process validation, and process troubleshooting.

  • Strong understanding of mold design, tooling principles, material data, molding machines, auxiliaries, and process monitoring tools.

  • Robotic programming and troubleshooting required.

  • Strong problem-solving skills (A3 / 5 Why / 8D) and attention to detail are essential.

  • Preferred Proficiency in CAD/CAE

  • Great to have Six Sigma Yellow or Green belt.

Milwaukee Tool is an equal opportunity employer.

Apply