Research and Development Engineer - Plastics Manufacturing - Base Salary to 110k/year

AllSearch Professional Staffing is seeking a Research and Development Engineer to join a plastics manufacturing operation in Little Rock, Arkansas. The role centers on new product development, testing, prototyping, and continuous improvement within an on-site laboratory environment. The successful candidate will contribute to product validation, design iterations, and process improvements across the product lifecycle, with occasional travel to manufacturing facilities and customer sites. Salary ranges from USD 85,000 to 110,000 per year and the position is onsite in Little Rock.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research, testing, analysis, and validation for new and existing industrial plastic products
• Support product development, prototyping, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Design, model, and modify components and products using 3D CAD software
• Develop and execute laboratory and mechanical testing procedures
• Analyze product performance, testing data, and material characteristics
• Prepare technical reports, testing summaries, and engineering documentation
• Maintain laboratory notebooks and technical records supporting product development and patent documentation
• Assemble, install, and test products, prototypes, and mechanical components
• Operate, maintain, and calibrate laboratory and analytical testing equipment
• Collaborate with Quality, Manufacturing, Production, and Product Management teams regarding product performance and process improvements
• Ensure products and processes meet company and regulatory standards
• Support manufacturing process validation and product quality initiatives
• Provide technical support for existing and newly developed products
• Participate in project planning, scheduling, and progress reporting
• Assist with technical training and knowledge transfer initiatives
• Travel occasionally to manufacturing facilities and customer locations as needed

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical field
• 3+ years of Research and Development (R&D) Engineering experience within industrial product manufacturing environments
• Experience supporting mechanical systems, product development, product testing, or manufacturing engineering initiatives
• Experience using mechanical and material analytical testing equipment including calipers, micrometers, gauges, and related measurement tools
• Experience with laboratory testing, product validation, and technical documentation
• 3D CAD modeling experience using NX, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar software
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office including Excel, Word, and Outlook
• Ability to travel approximately 15-20% to manufacturing facilities and customer locations

Technologies

• NX
• SolidWorks
• AutoCAD
• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Outlook
• Calipers
• Micrometers
• Gauges
• 3D printing

Benefits

• Bonus potential up to 15%
• Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
• 401k with company match
• PTO and paid holidays
• Educational assistance and career advancement opportunities
• Technically advanced laboratory environment with prototyping, 3D printing, and machine shop capabilities
• Stable global organization with continuous improvement and sustainability initiatives