Plastics Injection Molding – Manufacturing Engineer II

Smith+Nephew; Mansfield (MA); On-site; USD 74,250 - 111,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) and tuition reimbursement

Generous PTO and paid company holidays

Volunteer time and wellness programs

Training and mentorship opportunities

Job summary

Smith+Nephew is seeking a Plastics Engineer II in Mansfield, Massachusetts. This role focuses on hands-on injection molding processing, mold maintenance, and production support for medical devices. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in Plastics Engineering and 2+ years of relevant experience.

The Engineer will lead process optimization, mold maintenance, and validation compliance, while working closely with cross-functional teams. Benefits include medical coverage, 401(k), and generous PTO.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of hands-on experience in plastic injection molding, specifically in the medical device industry.
• Deep understanding of scientific molding processes.
• Experience with medical regulatory requirements (GMP/ISO 13485).

Responsibilities

• Lead injection molding process development and optimization using Scientific Molding techniques.
• Perform and manage mold maintenance, repair, and modification.
• Act as the technical lead in resolving production issues.

Skills

Injection molding process optimization

Mold maintenance and repair

Scientific molding techniques

CAD proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in Plastics Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Job description

Life Unlimited. At Smith+ Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. The Plastics Engineer II will serve as a primary technical resource on the manufacturing floor, focusing on hands‑on injection molding processing and mold maintenance to support medical device production. This role requires a strong background in scientific molding to develop, optimize, and troubleshoot molding processes, as well as the ability to perform or support mold maintenance, repair, and setup.

• No visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future.

What will you be doing?

• Hands‑on process optimization: Lead injection molding process development and optimization using Scientific Molding techniques (e.g., DOE, viscosity curves, cavity pressure monitoring) to ensure consistent quality and efficiency.
• Mold maintenance & support: Perform and manage mold preventative maintenance (PM), repair, and modification to maximize mold life and minimize downtime.
• Troubleshooting: Act as the technical lead in resolving production issues related to machinery, tooling, materials, and process deviations.
• Validation & compliance (GMP/ISO): Develop and execute validations (IQ/OQ/PQ) for new molds, processes, and equipment in compliance with FDA and ISO 13485 regulations.
• Production setup: Lead mold trials, machine setups, and commissioning of new molds/equipment.
• Documentation: Maintain meticulous process documentation, including Process Flow Diagrams, Mold Maintenance Logs, and Work Instructions.
• Technical support: Collaborate with Product Development on Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and support the tooling team with CAD reviews and mold flow analysis.

Location: Mansfield, Massachusetts (in‑person role)

What will you need to be successful?

Education: Bachelors degree in Plastics Engineering

Experience: 2+ years of hands‑on experience in plastic injection molding, specifically within the medical device or high‑precision industry.

Competencies

• Deep understanding of scientific molding processes.
• Strong mold maintenance, tooling, and repair capabilities (e.g., hot runners, mold disassembly).
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks/AutoCAD).
• Experience with medical regulatory requirements (GMP/ISO 13485).

Physical Demands: Ability to lift 35 lbs

Travel Requirements: < 10%

The anticipated base compensation range for this position is $74,250 to $111,500 USD annually.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) and tuition reimbursement.
• Medical leave programs, parental leave, generous PTO, paid company holidays.
• 8 hours of volunteer time annually and a variety of wellness offerings such as EAP.
• Inclusion and belonging initiatives, employee assistance program, fertility and adoption assistance.
• Training opportunities, mentorship programs, and discounts on fitness clubs, travel, and more.

Smith+ Nephew provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.