Working in the plastics industry

This article was revised for you on 01.08.2024 to make it easier to read!

Plastic is considered the material of the 21st century. New fields of application are emerging almost daily, ranging from medicine, the automotive industry and aerospace to agriculture. However, the shortage of skilled workers is also becoming noticeable here. Companies are searching for qualified employees and trainees.

The plastics industry offers a wide range of career opportunities in various disciplines. Each has its own focus and offers many possibilities for working in this exciting field.

A job in the raw materials sector can range from colour chemistry to the hands-on production of raw polymers, helping to provide downstream users with the ingredients and tools for innovation in everyday life.

The mechanical engineering sector moulds and shapes raw materials into useful products, for example for packaging products. It also provides key equipment for the raw materials sector and for recycling, helping to close the loop and promote sustainability by reducing plastic waste. A career in this sector can range from the manufacture of machinery to the sale and supply of essential ancillary equipment to support the forming and testing of products. Looking to the future, 3D printing is also likely to play an increasingly important role in this sector.

The real "centerpiece" of the plastics industry is the processing sector. This is where raw materials are transformed into the end products we know. Whether it is the case of a computer screen, a steering wheel or specialized aerospace parts, a career in this sector can have a tangible and visible impact on everyday life.

The recycling sector is the newest sector of the industry and has made great strides over the years in identifying, separating and increasing volumes. In an effort to close the cycle and increase the overall sustainability of the plastics industry, this sector includes the collection, mechanical recycling / chemical recycling and reuse of plastics that have reached their end of life. This can range from short-life plastics (e.g. food packaging or bottles) to longer-life plastics (e.g. window frames or cars).

Furthermore, there are many different degree programs that provide the necessary knowledge and skills for this field.

Graduates of engineering or STEM subjects (mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, technology) are particularly in demand in the plastics industry. Entry is also possible via the following degree courses:

Plastics technology courses deal with how plastics are processed, how products are developed and manufactured from them and how machines that manufacture plastic products are built. They are usually a combination of engineering and science.

The mechanical engineering course with a specialization in plastics technology complements typical mechanical engineering content such as design, mechanics or materials science with plastics-specific fundamentals such as chemistry and plastics science.

Chemical engineering provides basic scientific and practical knowledge in chemistry, mathematics, physics, process technology, process engineering and materials engineering.

Training in the plastics industry can be just as exciting. In addition to forklift drivers, tool mechanics or production employees, who are essential for production, there are numerous training occupations specifically for the plastics industry.

Packaging technologists work on innovative packaging: After three years of training, they design and produce packaging that optimally protects the contents and offers space for consumer information alongside an aesthetic design. This knowledge is used in the food industry, for example. 

Materials testers for plastics technology examine plastics and intermediate plastic products for their structure and material defects and monitor their consistent quality.

Process mechanics plan the production of the respective plastic parts based on order data, special customer requirements and technical drawings. They select suitable materials, monitor and optimize production and package, transport and store finished products.

Machine and system operators specializing in metal and plastics technology work on machines and systems for the production of components, assemblies and products made of plastic and metal. They prepare the necessary materials for production, maintain the machines and pack the finished products. They also monitor the production processes.

Graduates of recognized training occupations can continue their education by acquiring an advanced training.

In addition to practical expertise, industrial foreman training focuses increasingly on human resources responsibility, managing and training employees as well as working methods and cost development in the area of responsibility. Industrial foremen can set up or take over a company.

State-certified technicians are experts in their field and have an excellent theoretical command of processes and technologies. They are in demand in development, design, research and consulting.

Working in the plastics industry requires technical understanding, creativity and a spirit of innovation. There are many ways to develop in this field and take advantage of career opportunities. Both nationally and internationally, graduates with a training or a degree in plastics have excellent career prospects.

As the plastics industry is seen as the source of many ecological problems, young people tend to be less interested in it. Yet there are many exciting opportunities to contribute to sustainability in the plastics industry. Everyone working in this industry can make an important contribution to the environment and work towards a better future.