Senior Plastics Engineer

Role details

Company Description

Sigma International is a specialist management consulting and business innovation organization that delivers strategic and sustainable solutions to businesses, projects, and organizations. The company operates at the cutting edge of global business intelligence, trends, and systems, with offices in Durban, South Africa and Detroit, USA. As an award-winning international firm, Sigma International emphasizes innovation and practical impact for its clients. The organization is an active member of the Durban Chamber of Commerce & Industry and contributes to economic development and job creation in KwaZulu-Natal.

Professionals joining Sigma can expect a dynamic, globally oriented environment with a strong focus on business growth and transformation.

Role Description

The Senior Plastics Engineer is a full-time, on-site role based in Livonia, MI. This role involves leading the design, development, and optimization of plastic components and systems, with a focus on extrusion, injection molding, and polymer selection. Responsibilities include overseeing R&D activities, evaluating new materials and processes, troubleshooting manufacturing issues, and driving continuous improvement in product performance and manufacturability. The Senior Plastics Engineer collaborates closely with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, quality, and suppliers, to ensure technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with applicable standards.

The role also requires preparing technical documentation, supporting customer and internal presentations, and mentoring less experienced engineering team members.

Qualifications

• Strong expertise in Plastics Engineering and Polymers, including material selection, characterization, and application in complex components.
• Hands-on experience with Injection Molding processes, tooling considerations, and optimization for high-volume production.
• Proficiency in Extrusion technologies, process parameters, and troubleshooting for consistent product quality.
• Background in Research and Development (R&D), including concept development, testing, data analysis, and validation of new plastic solutions.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Plastics Engineering, Polymer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience with CAD tools and engineering analysis software relevant to plastic part and tooling design.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards, quality systems, and regulatory requirements for plastic components.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly to diverse stakeholders.