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Senior Plastics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Milwaukee Tool

Senior Process Engineer

Mukwonago, WI · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

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 ...

Milwaukee Tool

Senior Process Engineer

Mukwonago, WI · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

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 ...

PTA Plastics

Sr. Process Engineer

Oxford, CT · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

PTA Plastics, an employee-owned and innovative leader in the plastic injection molding, contract manufacturing and tool-building industry, is looking for a Senior Process Engineer to join our dynamic ...

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Senior Plastics Engineer information

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$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior plastics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior plastics engineer in the United States is $126,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges a Senior Plastics Engineer faces when bringing a new product from concept to production?

A Senior Plastics Engineer often encounters challenges such as selecting the appropriate polymer material to balance performance and cost, designing for manufacturability, and troubleshooting issues like warping or sink marks during molding. Coordinating closely with design, manufacturing, and quality teams is essential to ensure that prototypes meet specifications and can be efficiently scaled to production. Additionally, staying updated on regulatory requirements and sustainability practices is crucial, as these can impact material selection and processing methods.

What does a Senior Plastics Engineer do?

A Senior Plastics Engineer specializes in the design, development, and optimization of plastic materials and products. They oversee the selection of appropriate polymers, manage manufacturing processes such as injection molding or extrusion, and ensure that products meet quality and performance standards. These professionals also lead research and development projects, troubleshoot production issues, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring innovative plastic solutions to market.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior Plastics Engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in materials and processing, and leadership roles in large manufacturing or R&D companies. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, particularly in senior or executive positions within the plastics industry.

What is the difference between Senior Plastics Engineer vs Plastics Process Engineer?

AspectSenior Plastics EngineerPlastics Process Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Plastics Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field; experience preferredBachelor's in Plastics Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and oversight of plastic products and processes in manufacturing settingsFocus on optimizing plastic processing techniques and machinery in production facilities
Industry UsageUsed across plastics manufacturing, automotive, packaging, and consumer goods industriesPrimarily in manufacturing plants and process optimization roles within plastics companies

The main difference is that Senior Plastics Engineers typically have more experience and responsibilities in designing and overseeing plastic products, while Plastics Process Engineers focus on improving manufacturing processes and machinery. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are vital in plastics manufacturing industries.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Plastics Engineers can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in materials and processing, and leadership roles in manufacturing or R&D. High salaries are often associated with large companies, specialized expertise, and additional certifications or management responsibilities.

How much do plastic engineers make in the US?

Senior plastics engineers in the US typically earn between $70,000 and $110,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced skills in materials science, CAD software, and process optimization can influence salary levels.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Plastics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Plastics Engineer, you need expertise in polymer science, materials engineering, and process optimization, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and several years of experience in plastics manufacturing. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools, and knowledge of industry standards such as ASTM or ISO is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, project management abilities, and effective communication set top candidates apart. These skills ensure the development of high-quality plastic products, efficient manufacturing processes, and successful cross-functional collaboration.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior Plastics Engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in materials and processing, and leadership roles in manufacturing or R&D. High salaries are often associated with large companies, specialized expertise, and additional certifications such as Six Sigma or PMP.
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Senior Plastics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Plastics Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.
Sr. Design Engineer

Sr. Design Engineer

American Plastics, LLC

Mooresville, NC

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description

American Plastics, headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative plastic-injection molded products for the household & garage storage and commercial cleaning end-markets.


We are seeking a skilled Sr. Design Engineer specializing in plastics to join our team at our Innovation Center, in Mooresville, NC. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing and developing plastic components and products, ensuring functionality, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness. The role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, utilizing CAD software, and staying updated on industry trends and technologies. This position will report to the Vice President of Engineering.


Product Design: Conceptualize, design, and develop plastic components and products according to project requirements, considering factors such as functionality, aesthetics, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness.


CAD Modeling: Utilize CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) to create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings of plastic parts and assemblies.


Prototyping: Oversee the prototyping process, including selecting appropriate materials, collaborating with prototype technicians, and validating designs for fit, form, and function.


Material Selection: Evaluate and select suitable plastic materials based on performance requirements, environmental factors, and cost considerations.


Design Optimization: Continuously improve designs for efficiency, performance, and cost reduction through analysis, simulation, and testing.


Manufacturability: Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are optimized for production processes such as injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming.


Quality Assurance: Work closely with quality control teams to establish and implement quality standards for plastic components and products, ensuring compliance with industry regulations.


Documentation: Prepare and maintain comprehensive design documentation, including technical drawings, specifications, and design change records.


Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams including product management, manufacturing, quality assurance, and procurement to achieve project goals and deadlines.


Research and Innovation: Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in plastic design, and incorporate innovative solutions into product development processes.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or plastics Engineering.

Experience of hands-on injection molding experience a plus.

7 + Years experience with Product Design of plastic injection molded products

SolidWorks knowledge.

Experience with prototyping techniques and rapid iteration processes.

Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Effective communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work in cross-functional teams.

Familiarity with design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) principles.

Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Strong communication skills.



If you are interested in joining the American Plastics team and want to work in a fast-paced, progressive environment, we want to hear from you. We offer a competitive salary, full benefit package including medical/dental, 401k, and paid vacation.


Apply