Plastics Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of technological advancement, the demand for plastics engineers has never been higher.

As the world of material science progresses, the need for experts who can develop, enhance, and maintain our plastic technologies is more pressing than ever.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a plastics engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate world of plastics engineering,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable plastics engineer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Plastics Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Plastics Engineers apply their specialized knowledge in the field of polymer science to develop and improve plastic materials and products.

They work closely with manufacturers and other engineers to ensure the final product meets specified criteria and the highest possible quality standards.

The duties and responsibilities of a Plastics Engineer include:

• Research, design, and develop plastic products
• Evaluate and test the durability, safety, and functionality of plastic materials or products
• Develop or improve manufacturing processes for the production of plastic parts
• Work with project teams to implement, document, and debug manufacturing processes
• Consult with clients to determine their needs and design solutions
• Prepare detailed product development plans, including tasks, resources, schedules, costs, and product requirements
• Ensure compliance with industry and government regulations
• Identify and troubleshoot problems with manufacturing processes or plastic materials
• Document test results and make recommendations for product design changes
• Stay current with the latest developments in polymer science and plastic technology

 

Plastics Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented and innovative Plastics Engineer to join our team.

The Plastics Engineer will be responsible for designing and developing plastic products, overseeing the manufacturing process and improving production efficiency.

The ideal candidate should be experienced in plastics engineering principles, materials, and tools, and have a solid understanding of polymer science.

Ultimately, the role of the Plastics Engineer is to deliver high-quality, innovative, and efficient plastic solutions that meet our business needs and industry standards.

 

Responsibilities

• Design and develop new plastic products and improve existing ones.
• Analyze and evaluate the feasibility and design specifications of products.
• Oversee the manufacturing process and work to improve production efficiency.
• Research and develop new materials and methods of production.
• Collaborate with the design and production team to ensure product feasibility.
• Create specifications and detailed drawings for manufacturing.
• Test and analyze products to ensure they meet quality and durability standards.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in polymer science and plastics technology.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Plastics Engineer or similar role.
• Solid knowledge of polymer science and plastic materials.
• Experience in plastic product design and manufacturing processes.
• Familiarity with CAD software and other engineering tools.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Good project management and communication skills.
• BSc degree in Plastics Engineering, Polymer Science, or relevant field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Plastics Engineer
• Work Environment: Manufacturing plant setting with occasional office work. Some travel may be required for client consultations or to visit manufacturing sites.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Production Manager or Engineering Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Plastics Engineer Do?

Plastics Engineers work in a variety of industries where plastic products are manufactured.

They can be employed in corporations, small businesses or work as consultants.

Their main role is to design, develop, and test plastic products.

This involves creating drawings and specifications for plastic products, developing new products or enhancing existing ones, and testing products to ensure they meet quality and safety standards.

They work closely with other professionals in the field, such as materials scientists, chemical engineers, and machinists, to develop plastic products that are both functional and economical.

Plastics Engineers also oversee the manufacturing process of plastic products.

This includes selecting the right materials, machinery and manufacturing methods, and ensuring that the manufacturing process is efficient and produces high-quality products.

In addition, they may also be responsible for troubleshooting problems that arise during the manufacturing process, and implementing corrective actions.

They also have a role in researching and developing new materials and technologies related to plastics, and staying updated on industry trends and advancements.

In some cases, Plastics Engineers may also be involved in sales and customer service, especially in small companies.

This could involve discussing product specifications with customers, understanding their needs and preferences, and providing technical support.

Overall, the role of a Plastics Engineer is multifaceted, combining elements of design, engineering, manufacturing, and customer service.

 

Plastics Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A competent Plastics Engineer should possess the skills and qualifications that are necessary for the job role, such as:

• Strong understanding of plastics materials, their properties, and processing techniques to be able to design and develop new products.
• Proficient in using CAD software for creating detailed designs, as well as simulation tools for analyzing the behavior of these designs under different conditions.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and resolve any issues that may arise during the design, testing, and manufacturing processes.
• Good knowledge of manufacturing processes, tooling, and production equipment used in plastics industry.
• Adept in project management to oversee each phase of product development from design to production.
• Effective communication skills to relay complex technical information to non-technical team members and stakeholders, as well as work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams.
• Attention to detail and precision to ensure the highest quality in all aspects of work, from product design to final production.
• An understanding of safety and environmental regulations to ensure compliance in all manufacturing processes.

 

Plastics Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for a Plastics Engineer role may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships, co-op programs, or part-time roles in plastics engineering or materials science.

These professionals may also garner relevant experience in roles such as Material Analyst, Production Assistant, or Quality Control Technician.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience would have likely deepened their knowledge in polymer science, mold design, and plastic processing techniques in roles like Junior Plastics Engineer or Process Engineer.

They may also have experience with CAD software and simulation tools.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the plastics engineering field may have gained leadership experience, managed teams, and handled complex projects.

They could be ready for roles like Senior Plastics Engineer, Project Manager or Department Head in the plastics industry.

Such roles may require extensive experience in polymer material selection, design for manufacturing, and process optimization.

In addition, many employers may favor candidates with a Professional Engineer (PE) license, which requires a minimum of 4 years of work experience in their field of engineering.

 

Plastics Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Plastics Engineers typically require a bachelor’s degree in plastics engineering, materials science, or a related field.

Their education should provide a strong foundation in polymers and plastics materials, as well as training in the design, manufacture, and use of plastics.

In addition to this, knowledge of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, injection molding, and other manufacturing processes is crucial.

Some positions may require Plastics Engineers to have a master’s degree or Ph.D., especially those roles that involve research and development or specialized areas within the field.

Certifications from recognized bodies like the Society of Plastics Engineers can also be beneficial.

These demonstrate a candidate’s commitment to the profession and their technical competence in the field.

Continuous education to stay updated on new materials, technologies, and processes is also important, as the field of plastics engineering is constantly evolving.

 

Plastics Engineer Salary Expectations

A Plastics Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $75,494 (USD) per year.

The actual income can fluctuate depending on the level of experience, specific skills, and the location of employment.

 

Plastics Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a plastics engineer need?

Plastics engineers need a solid understanding of materials science, particularly in relation to polymers and plastics.

They should be proficient in using computer-aided design (CAD) software to design and simulate plastic products.

Additionally, they should possess analytical skills to troubleshoot and solve problems related to materials, processes, and product design.

Good communication skills are also beneficial for conveying technical information to clients, team members, or other stakeholders.

 

Do plastics engineers need a degree?

Yes, a bachelor’s degree in plastics engineering, materials science, or a related field is typically required to become a plastics engineer.

Some positions may require a master’s degree or additional training in specific areas of plastics engineering.

Furthermore, some engineers choose to become certified in their field to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to professional standards.

 

What should you look for in a plastics engineer resume?

A plastics engineer’s resume should showcase a degree in plastics engineering or a related field, as well as relevant work experience.

Look for knowledge of CAD software, materials testing, and plastics manufacturing processes.

Additionally, any certifications, such as Certified Plastics Engineer (CPE) from the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE), should be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good plastics engineer?

A good plastics engineer is innovative and able to think creatively to develop new products or improve existing ones.

They should be detail-oriented, capable of analyzing complex data and identifying potential improvements in materials or processes.

Good problem-solving skills are also important, as they will often need to troubleshoot issues in design or production.

Furthermore, they should have a passion for sustainability, as the field of plastics engineering often involves working to create more environmentally friendly materials and processes.

 

Is it difficult to hire plastics engineers?

The demand for plastics engineers varies by industry and location, but generally, there is a steady demand due to the widespread use of plastics in many sectors.

However, finding candidates with the right combination of technical skills, creativity, and knowledge of sustainable practices can be challenging.

Offering competitive salaries, opportunities for professional development, and emphasizing a company’s commitment to sustainability can help attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unpacked the intricate details of what it truly entails to be a plastics engineer.

Guess what?

It’s not just about fabricating plastic components.

It’s about molding the future of material science, one plastic component at a time.

With our comprehensive plastics engineer job description template and genuine examples, you’re ready to step up your game.

But why halt your journey here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next leap towards finely-tailored listings or perfecting your resume.

Remember:

Every plastic component is an integral piece of the larger framework.

Let’s shape that future. Together.