Development Engineer

We are seeking an experienced Development Engineer to work on our R&D Team in our manufacturing facility in Tacoma, WA.

Please double check you have the right level of experience and qualifications by reading the full overview of this opportunity below.

Who We are :

General Plastics Manufacturing Company specializes in the formulation of polyurethane foams and the production of build-to-print composite parts, offering custom solutions for industries such as aerospace, defense, and nuclear packaging. With over 80 years of expertise, GP delivers high-performance, precision-engineered composite components using advanced materials and manufacturing techniques. GPs focus with the LAST-A-FOAM line of products is meeting the exacting specifications of demanding markets by ensuring consistency, longevity, and durability. General Plastics is committed to quality, innovation, and timely delivery, making us a trusted partner for complex, mission-critical composite part needs.

Position Summary :

The Development Engineer will be responsible for the implementation and support of new and existing materials for GP. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with various materials processes and equipment and will have strong troubleshooting skills and mechanical aptitude.

• This is not a software engineering position.

Responsibilities :

Process Optimization / Production Support

Determine optimal process windows and define work instructions

Troubleshoot and resolve material and process issues encountered during manufacturing.

Identify and implement improvements to existing production processes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.

New Product Development

Work with production teams to scale up new formulations from the lab to full-scale manufacturing; overseeing the creation of TDSs, work instructions, and related documents.

Fabricate or facilitate the creation of new equipment necessary to realize new material innovations.

Collaboration

Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, sales, and quality assurance, to define product requirements and ensure manufacturability.

3+ years of hands-on experience in a manufacturing or R&D setting, preferably with polymeric or composite materials.

In-depth knowledge of polymer or polyurethane chemistry and processing methods (e.g., molding, casting, injection).

Experience in process or equipment design and development.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a detail-oriented mindset.

Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field is a plus

What We Have to Offer You :

Your innovation and hard work can help create some of the most unique high performance plastic products for emerging markets, and long-term customers in the country. As a result, youll find one of the best compensation, benefits and advancement programs in the industry. Were looking for energetic, motivated people with a can-do attitude and a desire to work smart. If you are a person with a strong work ethic who enjoys the chance to excel in a positive, team-oriented setting, youll find General Plastics to be a rewarding environment.

Plus, our Total Compensation Package is Beyond the Industry Average and includes the following :

Base compensation range is $80-$110k annually, depending on experience

Profit-Sharing Bonus Program paid 3 times per year

Outstanding Health Care Benefits including no premiums for medical and vision for entire family & no premiums for dental for employee

Company Matched 401K up to 8%

Employee Assistance Plan

We encourage healthy eating and subsidize lunchroom food / beverage costs

Disability & Life Insurance Package

Generous Earned Time Off Plan starts at 20 days of leave per year, plus 9 Paid Holidays

ITAR - US Persons Status :

Due to General Plastics' participation in the defense industry, International Traffic in Arms (ITAR) requires that access to sensitive information and material pertaining to defense and military related technologies may only be accessed, viewed, or shared by US Persons as defined by law. A "US Person" can be a US citizen, a lawful permanent legal resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or asylee.

General Plastics Manufacturing Company EEO Statement :

General Plastics is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

Should you have a disability that requires assistance and / or reasonable accommodation with the job application process, please contact the Human Resources department at (253) 473-5000.

Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace :

General Plastics is a Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace and both post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, PCP, opioids, amphetamines, and alcohol when criteria are met as outlined in our company policies.

Compensation details : 80000-11000 Yearly Salary

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