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Plastics Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

McClarin Composites

Plastics Engineer

Hanover, PA · On-site

Bachelor of Science degree in Plastics, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or similar engineering field * Minimum of 5 years direct manufacturing experience * Solidworks and AutoCad experience a plus

McCLARIN Composites

Plastics Engineer

Hanover, PA

Bachelor of Science degree in Plastics, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or similar engineering field * Minimum of 5 years direct manufacturing experience * Solidworks and AutoCad experience a plus

Apple

Tooling Engineer - Plastics

Cupertino, CA · On-site

Collaborate with supply management, product design, industrial design, and manufacturing engineering groups on material selection, design feasibility and aesthetics of new plastic part & tooling ...

IEI Plastics

Polymner Process Engineer

Nesquehoning, PA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in engineering or science. BS in plastics engineering or polymer science preferred. Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. Experience in extrusion, machine ...

Ametek

Sr Engineer, Plastics

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

$105K - $136K/yr

The Plastics/Injection Molding Engineer is responsible for driving mold process development and ... Develop and maintain strong working relationship with functional groups (Engineering, Quality ...

Ametek

Sr Engineer, Plastics

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

$105K - $136K/yr

The Plastics/Injection Molding Engineer is responsible for driving mold process development and ... Develop and maintain strong working relationship with functional groups (Engineering, Quality ...

Nanobiosym

Plastics Engineer

Cambridge, MA

We are currently seeking Engineering candidates to add to our growing team. RESPONSIBILITIES ... Master's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Plastics or Mechanical disciplines preferred) * Six ...

Apple

Tooling Engineer - Plastics

Cupertino, CA

$163K - $246K/yr

Collaborate with supply management, product design, industrial design, and manufacturing engineering groups on material selection, design feasibility and aesthetics of new plastic part & tooling ...

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All JobsPlastics Engineering Jobs

Plastics Engineering information

See salary details

$36.5K

$65.3K

$108.5K

How much do plastics engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastics engineering in the United States is $65,265.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $79,500.00 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.
More about Plastics Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Plastics Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Plastics Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plastics Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Plastics Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Plastics Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Plastics Engineering jobs include:
Plastics Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastics Engineering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,265 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Plastic Molding - Plastics Engineer

okayind

New Britain, CT

Other

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Position:

As a Plastic Engineer, you will be responsible for leading and managing several facets of new mold builds, process development, process improvements, and the associated technological and quality systems pertaining to medical molding in our New Britain, CT location. Become a key part of the team implementing actions to enable AVNA to have a world class molding operation. You will report directly to the Director of Applications Development,

Key Goals:

Become a trusted and respected leader.  Achieve the System development performance goals on the AVNA Report Card (Efficiency, Cost savings and continuous improvement), assigned objectives related to AVNA strategy, as well as working with the NPD team and Project Management to successfully execute and launch new programs/strategies/systems for each.

Responsibilities:

·         Lead new program launches with molded components, particularly with the development and execution of protocols, work process instructions, SIIP’s and any additional technical documents

·         Develop robust molding processes through the use of DOEs

·         Ensure that new molds are efficient, capable, and maintainable for long term production.

·         Resolve production issues as they occur.

·         Make team members and others better.  Leads by example

·         Drives for Total Customer Satisfaction, both internal and external

·         Monitors performance by measuring and analyzing results/variances (productivity, quality, customer service); initiating corrective actions; minimizing the impact of variation.

·         Seeks to understand all facets of the manufacturing process before implementing change

·         Create plans that allow the monitoring and understanding of success post implementation.

Key Attributes:

·         Strong leadership skills – ability to energize, motivate and inspire others with “healthy” performance tensions. 

·         Track record of continuous improvement and cost reductions

·         Outstanding communication (oral and written) and presentation skills

·         Excellent analytical, technical, reasoning, and problem-solving skills

·         Follows and promotes principles of “right things right”.  Focused on Safety.

·         Unyielding quality focus. 

 

Key Skills

·         The use of DOEs in process development

·         A thorough knowledge of mold design

·         Knowledge of Solidworks

·         Knowledge of AutoCAD

·         Experience with PFEMA

·         Experience with PPAPs

Key Experience

·         Minimum 5 years’ experience in molding

·         Molding process development

·         Molded Medical component qualifications

·         Experience with machine automation is preferred

Education Experience

·         BS of Plastic Engineering or ME preferred

Apply