What is a Plastics Engineer Job?
Plastics engineering is a specialized field that involves the design, development, and manufacture of plastic products. A plastics engineer job is a position within this field that requires an individual to use their knowledge of plastics to create innovative products using various methods, such as injection molding, thermoforming, and blow molding. These professionals are responsible for ensuring that the products they design meet the required specifications, are safe, and are cost-effective to produce.
What Do Plastics Engineers Usually Do in This Position?
Plastics engineers typically work in a manufacturing setting, taking on projects that involve designing and producing plastic products. They use their knowledge of plastic materials, production processes, and engineering principles to develop products that meet the specific needs of their clients. They may also be involved in research and development projects, testing new materials and processes to improve the efficiency and quality of plastic products.
Top 5 Skills for This Position
- Proficiency in CAD software
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
- Knowledge of plastics materials and production processes
How to Become a Plastics Engineer
To become a plastics engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in plastics engineering or a related field such as mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, or materials science. Some employers may also require a master's degree. In addition to formal education, experience in the field through internships or entry-level positions can be helpful in obtaining a job as a plastics engineer.
Average Salary
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for materials engineers, which includes plastics engineers, was $96,970 as of May 2020. The top 10 percent of earners in this field made more than $149,910 per year.
Roles and Types
Plastics engineers can work in a variety of roles and industries. Some may work for manufacturing companies, designing and producing plastic products for consumer or industrial use. Others may work for research and development firms, testing new materials and processes to improve the efficiency and quality of plastic products. Some plastics engineers may also work in quality control or regulatory compliance, ensuring that plastic products meet safety and environmental standards.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in the USA
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some of the states with the highest employment levels for materials engineers, including plastics engineers, include Michigan, California, Texas, Ohio, and Illinois. These states offer a variety of job opportunities in the manufacturing and research and development sectors.
What are the Typical Tools?
Plastics engineers typically use a variety of tools and software to design and produce plastic products. Some of the most common tools used in this field include computer-aided design (CAD) software, materials testing equipment, and production machinery such as injection molding machines and extruders.
In Conclusion
Plastics engineering is a specialized field that offers a variety of job opportunities for professionals with the right skills and education. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, it is important to obtain a degree in plastics engineering or a related field and gain experience through internships or entry-level positions. With the right skills and experience, you can find a rewarding career as a plastics engineer, designing and producing innovative plastic products that meet the needs of consumers and industry alike.