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Senior Plastics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Engineering Plastics Lab Tech II

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$34/hr

Test Engineer - Materials / Plastics Lab Ann Arbor, MI Competitive Pay | Full-Time | Growth ... Strong career growth into Senior Engineer or Lab Leadership roles Apply Today If you're an engineer ...

PTA Plastics

Sr. Automation Engineer

Oxford, CT · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

PTA Plastics, an employee-owned and innovative leader in the plastic injection molding, contract ... The Senior Automation Engineer leads the development, optimization, and strategic advancement of ...

Marmon

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$90K - $123K/yr

Position Summary The Senior Manufacturing Engineer provides technical leadership for manufacturing ... strong emphasis on plastic injection molding processes, tooling, automation, and process ...

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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. Manufacturing Manager - Plastics

Sr. Manufacturing Manager - Plastics

System One

Denver, CO • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Senior Manufacturing Manager - Plastics Location: Lakewood, CO Hours/Schedule: Full-Time, Monday-Friday (Onsite) Compensation: $148,500 - $185,600 + 20% Target Bonus Type: Direct Hire Overview Our client, a global medical manufacturing organization, is seeking a Senior Manufacturing Manager to lead a high-volume plastics manufacturing operation. This role is ideal for a hands-on manufacturing leader with injection molding expertise who enjoys driving operational excellence, developing teams, and improving plant performance. Responsibilities

  • Lead multi-shift plastics manufacturing operations, including injection molding and extrusion
  • Drive safety, quality, productivity, labor efficiency, and cost performance
  • Manage supervisors and manufacturing teams while supporting employee development
  • Monitor KPIs including OEE, downtime, scrap, throughput, and equipment reliability
  • Lead Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Partner with Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, and Finance to achieve operational goals
  • Support production planning, staffing, and future manufacturing capacity
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or related field
  • 10+ years of manufacturing experience
  • 5+ years of manufacturing leadership experience
  • Strong plastics manufacturing background with injection molding experience
  • Experience leading multi-shift manufacturing operations
  • Proven success improving productivity, labor efficiency, quality, and operational performance
  • Strong financial acumen and experience managing manufacturing metrics
  • Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, extrusion, SAP, automated manufacturing, or regulated manufacturing experience preferred

Benefits Our client offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, bonus opportunity, career development, and additional employee wellness programs.

#M-3 #LI-MM1 Ref: #558-Scientific